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Painter/Illustrator Salary in the United States

How much does a Painter/Illustrator make in the United States?

As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Painter/Illustrator in the United States is $48,469 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.

However, a Painter/Illustrator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $67,766
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $40,385 to $58,570
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $33,026
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Painter/Illustrator Salaries

A Painter/Illustrator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Painter/Illustrators Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Painter/Illustrators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $53,665.
  • California: $53,462.
  • Massachusetts: $52,749.

Top Paying Cities for Painter/Illustrator

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $61,134
  • San Francisco: $60,465
  • Oakland: $59,191

Painter/Illustrator Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Painter/Illustrator salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $48,469. While startup companies pay approximate $48,469.

Painter/Illustrator Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $48,469
Growth Stage 51~500 $48,469
Established 501~5000 $48,469
Enterprise 5000+ $48,469

Painter/Illustrator Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Painter/Illustrator's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on August 01, 2026
$40,385
Average $48,469/year
$58,570
$3,365
Average $4,039/month
$4,881
$777
Average $932/week
$1,126
$19
Average $23/hour
$28
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $58,570 $4,881 $1,126 $28
Average $48,469 $4,039 $932 $23
25th Percentile $40,385 $3,365 $777 $19

Most common benefits for Painter/Illustrator

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Painter/Illustrator

1. Where can a Painter/Illustrator earn the most?

A Painter/Illustrator's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Painter/Illustrator earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Painter/Illustrator is $61,134.

2. What is the highest pay for Painter/Illustrator?

The highest pay for Painter/Illustrator is $67,766.

3. What is the lowest pay for Painter/Illustrator?

The lowest pay for Painter/Illustrator is $33,026.

4. What are the responsibilities of Painter/Illustrator?

Uses paint to create graphic material and lettering to be used for title, background, screen advertising, commercial logo, and other visual layouts. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty with 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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