If you’re considering a career as a house painter in Plymouth, UK, understanding current salary trends, what influences earnings, and the job market outlook is essential. This in‑depth article breaks down the Painter (House) salary in Plymouth for 2026, covering average pay, experience levels, factors affecting earnings, benefits, certifications, job prospects, and comparisons with nearby cities — giving you actionable insights whether you’re starting out or planning your next career move.
📊 Average Painter Salary in Plymouth (2026)
House painters in Plymouth are typically classified as Painter or Painter & Decorator roles. These jobs combine painting skills with surface preparation and decorative finish work.
Typical Salary Figures (2026 Estimates)
| Type of Pay | Amount (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | ~£19.45 per hour | Reported average for painters in Plymouth. |
| Average Annual Salary (Painter & Decorator) | ~£36,669 | Based on employer reports in Plymouth. |
| Typical Job Posting Salaries | £28,500 – £29,750 | Entry to mid‑level roles on current listings. |
| Broader UK Range (Skilled Trades) | ~£36,000 – £38,500 | National data for similar trades. |
Hourly pay around £19.45 is slightly above the national average for painters, indicating Plymouth’s competitive market for skilled paintwork.
📈 Salary Breakdown by Experience
Experience significantly affects earnings in this field. Below is an approximate salary progression:
Painter Salary by Experience Level (2026)
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary | Typical Role |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–2 yrs) | £22,000 – £27,000 | Assistant or junior painter |
| Mid‑Level (3–5 yrs) | £27,000 – £32,000 | Painter with solid skillset |
| Experienced (5–10 yrs) | £32,000 – £38,000 | Senior / reliable decorator |
| Highly Skilled / Supervisor | £38,000+ | Lead painter or team lead |
Data from Glassdoor suggests a typical range for painters & decorators in Plymouth between approximately £24K and £31K, with averages around £27K, though higher figures are possible for experienced decorators.
🔎 Factors Influencing Painter Earnings in Plymouth
Several factors determine how much painters earn in 2026:
🧰 1. Type of Employment
Employed painters with firms or housing associations often receive stable salaries with benefits and regular hours.
Self‑employed or contract painters can set their own day rates and often earn more per hour — but incomes fluctuate with demand.
📍 2. Skill Set & Specialisation
Painters with advanced skills such as:
Surface preparation and restoration
Spray application and fine finishes
Historic paint restoration
often command higher rates.
🏠 3. Residential vs Commercial Work
Painters working on residential homes might earn standard rates, while those with commercial contracts or insurance‑work experience may earn premiums.
☀️ 4. Seasonal Demand
Painting jobs often increase in spring and summer, sometimes offering overtime work or seasonal bonuses.
📢 5. Reputation & Client Base
Freelancers with strong reviews or repeat clients can charge premium day rates.
📈 Job Market Trends in Plymouth (2026)
The job market for painters in Plymouth is influenced by several regional and national trends:
🏙 Construction & Renovation Activity
Plymouth continues to see residential and commercial renovations as part of urban development, keeping demand for painters steady throughout the year.
🔨 Skilled Trades Demand
Across the UK, skilled trades remain in demand due to workforce shortages in construction and property maintenance. Average salaries for painters & decorators nationally range around £36,000–£38,500, reflecting sustained demand.
🛠 Long‑Term Contracts
Employment listings often show stable roles with housing associations or maintenance teams offering consistent work and structured pay.
🎯 Benefits of Being a House Painter
Painting is a skilled trade with several advantages:
✔ Job Stability
Whether working for employers or independently, painters remain in demand due to continuous renovation and maintenance in housing stock.
✔ Flexible Work Options
Painters can choose:
Full‑time employment
Contract or freelance work
Seasonal or project‑based jobs
✔ Skill Visibility
Painting yields immediate visible results, which can be satisfying and help build reputation quickly.
✔ Opportunity for Growth
Experienced painters can move into supervisory roles, specialize in decorative work, or start their own painting business.
📚 Certifications & Education That Impact Salary
Although formal degrees are not required, certifications and training can boost earnings:
🎓 Helpful Qualifications
NVQ Level 2/3 in Painting & Decorating
City & Guilds Painting & Decorating Certificates
CSCS Card & Health & Safety Training
Painters with formal qualifications often qualify for higher‑paying projects and more complex contract work.
📊 Comparison With Nearby Cities
Painter salaries in Plymouth compare well with nearby locations in the Southwest:
| City | Typical Annual Salary for Painters |
|---|---|
| Plymouth | ~£36,669 (Painter & Decorator) |
| Exeter | ~£38,799 (higher average) |
| Torquay | ~£38,088 |
| Newton Abbot | ~£42,869 (higher) |
| Barnstaple | ~£37,774 |
Plymouth holds a solid mid‑range position among coastal cities in Devon and Cornwall, slightly below some smaller towns where fewer painters lead to higher competition.
📅 Job Outlook for Painters in 2026
The outlook for painters in Plymouth remains stable to moderately positive:
🧱 Ongoing Need for Maintenance
Homeowners and landlords consistently require painters for upkeep and decor refreshes.
🛠 Construction Growth
Continued construction and renovation supports long‑term demand for skilled trades.
👷 Career Longevity
Painters with good reputations and client bases can expect steady work year‑round.
📝 Final Thoughts
In 2026, the Painter (House) salary in Plymouth reflects a healthy trade with solid earnings potential. Average annual salaries for painters & decorators sit around £36,000–£37,000, with variations based on skills, experience, and employment type. Certifications and a strong local reputation can significantly enhance earning power.
Whether you’re just starting out or advancing your painting career, Plymouth offers a competitive environment with steady demand, room for growth, and the potential for higher income with experience and specialization.