If you’re considering a career as a house painter in Boise, Idaho or simply want to understand what painters earn in 2026, this detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know. Boise’s growing housing and renovation market offers opportunities for painters of all skill levels. Below, we’ll cover average salary ranges, experience levels, key factors influencing earnings, job market trends, certifications, and comparisons with nearby cities to provide real insight into this trade.
Average House Painter Salary in Boise, ID (2026)
Painters in Boise typically earn a competitive wage relative to the regional cost of living. According to recent data:
Salary Overview
| Pay Type | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hourly Average | ~$20.17 |
| Low End Hourly | ~$15.13 |
| High End Hourly | ~$26.89 |
| Annual Average | ~$42,000 – $45,000 |
Painters working full-time usually land within a mid-range salary that reflects Boise’s cost environment.
Painter Salary by Experience
Experience plays a significant role in determining how much you can earn as a house painter.
Typical Earnings by Experience
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–1 yr) | $15 – $19 | ~$30,000 – $38,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–4 yrs) | $19 – $22 | ~$38,000 – $46,000 |
| Experienced (5–8 yrs) | $22 – $25 | ~$46,000 – $52,000 |
| Senior / Lead (9+ yrs) | $25+ | ~$52,000+ |
Being skilled in prep work, trim/detail painting, and exterior coatings often results in higher earnings.
What Influences Painter Salaries in Boise
Several important factors affect how much you can make:
1. Skill Level & Specialty
Painters experienced in:
Spray application
Decorative finishes
Surface repair
Weatherproof coatings
…are often able to command higher pay.
2. Employment Type
Company-employed painters get more stable income.
Independent contractors can set higher rates but face variable demand.
3. Project Type
Residential repainting pays steadily, while specialized jobs like historic renovation or high-end finishes can pay more.
4. Work Volume
More hours during spring and summer usually mean more pay due to increased demand.
Job Market Trends for Painters in Boise (2026)
Boise has seen continuous housing growth, which means good demand for painters. Factors shaping the market include:
Key Trends
Ongoing home improvement and resale preparation driving interior/exterior painting demand
New residential construction
Increasing focus on energy-efficient and protective coatings
Steady demand for professional painters over DIY approaches
These trends point toward sustained opportunities for skilled painters in 2026.
Benefits of Working as a House Painter
Choosing house painting as a profession offers both tangible and lifestyle benefits.
Work Benefits
Consistent demand across seasons
Active, hands-on work
Visible results with each completed project
Opportunity for overtime or seasonal bonuses
Employer Benefits
Many painting companies provide:
Health insurance
Paid time off
Retirement plans
Tool and equipment provisions (sometimes)
Certifications and Education That Can Boost Pay
While a formal degree isn’t required, targeted training can improve your earning potential.
Valuable Certifications
OSHA Safety Certification
Lead Paint Safety (especially for older homes)
Spray Painting & Advanced Techniques
Apprenticeship Completion Certificates
How Training Impacts Salary
| Training / Certification | Impact on Earnings |
|---|---|
| Basic Training | Builds foundation |
| OSHA / Safety Certs | +10–15% |
| Multiple Skill Certs | +15–30% |
| Business & Estimating Skills | Higher contractor rates |
Painters who can estimate, price jobs accurately, and market themselves professionally often earn more.
Boise vs Other Nearby Cities: Salary Comparison (2026)
Here’s how Boise’s painter salaries stack up with other nearby cities:
| City | Avg Annual Painter Salary |
|---|---|
| Boise, ID | ~$42,000 – $45,000 |
| Meridian, ID | Slightly higher than Boise |
| Nampa, ID | Comparable to Boise |
| Coeur d’Alene, ID | Higher-than-Boise |
| Caldwell, ID | Similar to Boise |
Nearby areas like Meridian and Coeur d’Alene often offer slightly better salary ranges, reflecting variable demand and cost differences.
Job Outlook in Boise – 2026 and Beyond
The outlook for house painters in Boise remains solid.
Reasons for Positive Job Outlook
Continuous residential upgrades and repaint cycles
Renovation activity in older neighborhoods
Strong regional housing market
Preference for professional quality over DIY
Painters who maintain high standards, build local reputations, and expand their skill sets are likely to enjoy steady work.
Working as a Painter: Pros & Cons
Pros
Fast entry into the workforce
Physical, active job
Opportunities for self-employment
Ability to specialize and advance
Cons
Physically demanding
Weather can affect outdoor schedules
Earnings may fluctuate for contractors
Painters who advance into project leads or start their own businesses can enjoy significantly higher long-term income.
Final Thoughts
The Painter (House) salary in Boise, ID for 2026 offers a steady and rewarding career path. With average wages around $20 per hour and annual earnings typically in the low $40,000s, painters with experience and specialized skills can earn even more. Boise’s growing housing market and renovation trends mean continued opportunities for both team-employed and self-employed painters. Aspirants who invest in certifications, build a reputation, and enhance their technical skills can significantly boost their earning potential and career satisfaction in this trades field.