Whether you’re considering a career as a house painter in Bristol or just curious about what professionals in this trade earn, understanding the local salary landscape is important. Bristol’s vibrant property market, ongoing home renovations, and steady demand for skilled trades make it a stable place for painters in 2026. This detailed guide covers the average house painter salary in Bristol, salary by experience, factors influencing earnings, job trends, benefits, training and certification impact, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average House Painter Salary in Bristol – 2026
In Bristol, house painters typically earn above the national UK average due to higher regional living costs and consistent demand for quality trades. Pay can vary depending on whether you’re an employee, contractor, or specialist decorator.
Salary Overview (2026 Estimates)
| Salary Type | Amount (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Hourly Average | £19.50 – £21.45 |
| Approx Annual Range (Full-Time) | £34,000 – £42,000 |
| Painter & Decorator Avg | ~£38,600 |
| Entry-Level Range | ~£26,000 – £32,000 |
| Experienced / Senior Painter | £42,000+ |
Painters in Bristol typically earn around £19.59 per hour on average, which is about 6–7% above the UK average for this role.
Salary by Experience and Skill Level
Experience plays a significant role in earnings for house painters. More skilled and versatile painters often earn higher wages.
Estimated Earnings by Experience
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | £26,000 – £32,000 | Starting roles, tend to work under supervision |
| Mid-Level (2–5 yrs) | £32,000 – £37,000 | Greater independence on jobs |
| Experienced Painter | £37,000 – £42,000 | Skilled in various finishes |
| Senior / Specialist | £42,000+ | Supervisory or niche expertise |
Regional job postings show painters ranging from £33,000–£34,000+ per year for full-time roles.
Key Factors Influencing Painter Salaries
Several important factors shape how much house painters can earn in Bristol:
🔧 1. Skill Set & Specialization
Painters with advanced skills in decorative finishes, colour matching, spray techniques, or exterior preparation are more sought after and can command higher rates.
🧰 2. Type of Employment
Employed painters get regular pay and possible benefits.
Self‑employed contractors can set higher rates but must cover tools, insurance, and tax.
📍 3. Local Demand & Cost of Living
Bristol’s relatively higher cost of living and active renovation market mean painters often earn more than in smaller towns.
⏰ 4. Seasonality
Work tends to increase in spring and summer, offering more hours and potentially overtime pay.
⭐ 5. Reputation & Client Base
Experienced painters with good local reviews can charge premium day rates.
Job Market Trends for Painters in Bristol (2026)
The job market for painters in Bristol remains stable with moderate growth in 2026:
Demand Drivers
Strong residential renovations and refurbishments
Rental property turnover requiring fresh painting
Home sales prepping properties for market
Trends to Watch
Increased use of modern, eco‑friendly paints
Higher demand for qualified decorators with finishing expertise
Contractors preferring multi‑skilled tradespeople
Overall, painters with a professional approach and solid portfolio continue to find work consistently.
Benefits of Being a House Painter in Bristol
House painting offers several advantages as a profession or trade.
✔️ Tangible Benefits
Visible results after each project—high satisfaction
Consistent demand across seasons
Opportunity for overtime in peak months
Active market with renovation projects
✔️ Employment Benefits
When employed by firms or construction companies, painters may receive:
Paid holiday
Pension contributions
Training opportunities
✔️ Self‑Employment Perks
Flexible schedule
Ability to set personal daily or hourly rates
Higher earning potential with repeat clients
Education, Training, and Certifications That Boost Salary
Formal education isn’t mandatory, but training and credentials can significantly impact earning potential.
Valuable Training & Certifications
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS card) – common UK qualification for tradespeople
NVQ Level 2/3 Painting & Decorating – recognised vocational training
Health & Safety Training – important for job sites
Painters with these qualifications often command higher pay and are preferred for larger or more professional contracts.
Painter Salary Comparison: Bristol vs Nearby UK Cities
Here’s how Bristol’s paint trade salary compares to other cities in the UK:
| City | Avg Annual Painter Salary |
|---|---|
| Bristol | £34,000 – £42,000+ |
| Birmingham | ~£32,000 – £38,000 |
| Manchester | ~£33,000 – £39,000 |
| Leeds | ~£31,000 – £37,000 |
| Cardiff | ~£30,000 – £36,000 |
| London | £40,000 – £55,000+ (higher cost area) |
Bristol typically pays above many northern cities but below London, largely because of local living costs and regional demand trends.
Job Outlook for House Painters in 2026
The outlook for painters in Bristol remains favourable:
📈 Steady Demand
Housing market activity and renovations
Need for interior and exterior painting in both private and rental sectors
💼 Career Progression
Painters often advance to:
Team leader or supervisor
Specialist contractor
Self‑employed business owner
Paint professionals who diversify skills or take on decorating expertise increase long‑term opportunities and earning potential.
Is Being a House Painter a Good Career in Bristol?
Pros
Consistent work demand
Earnings above the national average
Possibility to grow a personal business
Engaging physical work
Cons
Physically demanding
Weather impacts exterior work
Self‑employment requires managing admin and tax
For those who enjoy hands‑on work and building a reputation, painting is a rewarding and practical trade.
Takeaway: Painter Salary in Bristol 2026
In 2026, house painters in Bristol benefit from competitive wages and a stable job scene. Hourly earnings average around £19–£21+, translating into yearly pay generally between £34,000 and £42,000+ for experienced painters. Experience, certifications, and a strong skill set can significantly boost income.
With consistent renovation demand, higher regional pay, and opportunities for career growth, house painting remains a viable and rewarding profession in Bristol’s job market.