You can absolutely make 6 figures in painting. While many painters start at entry-level wages, the ceiling is far higher than most people assume. Women painters can scale their earnings through:

Specialization (e.g. fine finishing, cabinetry, murals)
Owning a painting business (working for yourself!)
Working in high-end markets
Securing a Union position

Some painters hit 6 figures by combining skilled labor with smart business practices and niche branding. If you're wondering why painting is the best trade for women, read Why Painting Is the Best Trade for Women.

If you’re a woman who is considering getting in to the paint trade, we have several resources to help you get there.

If you’re a woman in the industry, and wondering how to get more freedom for yourself, make sure to get signed up for our #piparmy membership, where we help you with all the skills and improvements you need to get there.

The #PIParmy membership includes all the contracts, systems, and efficiency training you need to take you to make 6 figures in painting. We have live access to a community and network of women all across the globe, who have been in your shoes - and know what it takes to make magic happen.

How Much Do Painters Really Make? (2025 Data)

Painter income varies widely by region and role, but women who pursue specialized or leadership pathways consistently earn more.

Typical earning ranges:

Entry-Level Painter: $35,000–$50,000
Skilled Residential/Commercial Painter: $55,000–$75,000
Specialty Painter (Cabinetry, Fine Finishing): $75,000–$120,000
Painting Business Owner: $80,000–$250,000+
Union Journeyman Painter: $75,000–$110,000 (plus benefits)

Women who niche down or build a brand around quality often reach the top of the range faster because the market is hungry for reliable, detail-oriented painters.

Why Painting Is One of the Highest-Potential Trades for Women

Painting combines precision and creativity — two areas where women thrive. Compared to other trades, it also requires lower startup costs and offers faster time to income.

Advantages for women:

Low barrier to entry
Flexible scheduling
Easier to start part-time or side hustle
High demand in residential + property management markets
Naturally scalable into a team or specialty service

This is why so many women in the Pretty In Paint community hit their income goals sooner than expected.

Exactly How Women Are Reaching 6 Figures in Painting

There are four proven pathways:

1. Specialize in High-Paying Niches

Cabinets
Trim + doors
Interior repaints in high-end neighborhoods
Murals, faux finishes, color consulting

Specialists charge more per hour and close higher-value clients.

2. Build a Small Painting Business

You don’t need a big crew to hit big numbers — many six-figure women run:

A simple job schedule with flexibility to take the time off you need
Systemized workflows to maximize profitability during days on site
Even 1–2 helpers can help add extra income

Consistency + systems = profit.

3. Become the Go-To for Homeowners

Women painters often excel here because:

They communicate clearly
They show up reliably
Their work is detail-driven

Getting strong referrals and repeat clients can fill your calendar for months.

4. Move Into Leadership or Union Roles

If working as an “employee” tradesperson: Foreperson, estimator, project manager, or union journeyman roles often hit or exceed six figures.

How to Increase Your Painting Income Faster

Women who level up their income tend to:

Improve production efficiency
Use systems/contract templates
Raise prices confidently
Invest in training
Build a recognizable brand
Learn niche skill sets (cabinets, spray work, refinishing)

This is exactly what the #PIParmy membership helps you do.

If You Want to Make 6 Figures in Painting, Start Here

A good next step is to focus on:

Skill training
Business systems
Profitable service offerings
Brand positioning

Your earning ceiling rises the moment you build confidence in these four areas.

If you’re ready, join the #PIParmy and start building the toolkit that women painters around the world are using to hit 6 figures and beyond.

Can You Make 6 Figures in Painting?