Accidents are an unfortunate reality of driving. With millions of vehicles on roads across the United States, the need for skilled auto body repair technicians remains constant. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates over 6 million car accidents occur annually in the US, and Allstate estimates the average driver will experience a collision approximately every 10 years. This consistent rate of accidents underscores the critical role of collision repair professionals in the automotive industry. If you’re detail-oriented, enjoy hands-on work, and are passionate about cars, a career as an auto body repair technician, also known as a collision repair technician, might be an excellent path for you. A key consideration when exploring this career is understanding the earning potential. So, what is the average salary of an auto body repair technician?
Let’s delve into the salary expectations for this essential automotive role and explore which states offer the highest median incomes for auto body repair professionals.
Key Insights into Auto Body Repair Technician Salaries
- The high volume of car accidents in the U.S., exceeding 6 million per year, confirms the ongoing demand for qualified collision repair technicians. Allstate’s statistic that drivers average a collision every decade highlights the frequency of these incidents.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2023, the median annual salary for automotive body and related repairers in the United States was $48,740. This median figure signifies that half of the technicians earned above this amount, and half earned below. Remember that numerous factors influence salary, including experience level, type of employer, geographical demand, and the local cost of living.
- The top-earning states for collision repair technicians, based on median annual salaries, are Rhode Island ($63,360), Alaska ($62,100), and Massachusetts ($60,750). These higher salaries often reflect the cost of living and specific driving conditions or hazards prevalent in these states.
- Variations in local driving conditions, cost of living, and state-specific environmental factors, such as wildlife encounters in Wyoming or icy roads in Colorado, are significant determinants in the demand and compensation for skilled auto body repair technicians across different states.
- For individuals seeking formal training to become collision repair technicians, Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers a comprehensive Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) program. With campuses in Houston, TX, and Long Beach, CA, UTI prepares students for successful careers in vehicle restoration and repair.
Read: Collision Repair Technician Resume & Interview Tips
Understanding Auto Body Repair Technician Earnings
If you’re contemplating a career in collision repair, salary expectations are likely a primary concern. As reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for automotive body and related repairers nationwide was $48,740 in May 2023. This median wage effectively divides the earnings distribution, with half of all collision repair technicians earning more and the other half earning less than this figure.
It’s crucial to understand that an auto body tech’s salary isn’t fixed. It’s influenced by a range of elements such as years of experience, the specific employer (dealership, independent shop, etc.), the demand for services in a particular area, and the prevailing cost of living.
While the national median salary provides a general benchmark, examining state-by-state salary averages, as compiled by the BLS, offers a more granular view. This detailed perspective can be invaluable for career planning, helping you understand regional salary variations and make informed decisions about your career path and location.
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Top 10 States with Highest Median Salaries for Auto Body Repair Technicians
The following median wage data was reported by the BLS in May 2023. Please note these figures represent median salaries and are influenced by factors such as experience, location, and employer compensation, and are not entry-level salaries.
1. Rhode Island: $63,360
Rhode Island presents robust opportunities for auto body repair technicians. Notably, Rhode Island is often cited as one of the most challenging states for driving. Factors contributing to this include dense traffic conditions and high vehicle ownership costs. Consequently, the demand for skilled collision repair technicians is elevated in this state.
Despite being the smallest state in the U.S., Rhode Island boasts a rich coastal heritage and a vibrant cultural scene. From the historic charm of Newport’s streets to the picturesque beaches of Narragansett, Rhode Island offers a dynamic environment to live and work.
2. Alaska: $62,100
Driving in Alaska presents unique challenges, including extensive unpaved roads, rugged terrain, and icy conditions during winter. Many routes are single-lane, and drivers must be vigilant for wildlife crossings, particularly moose, which frequently enter roadways. These demanding driving conditions contribute to vehicle damage and accidents, creating a strong demand for proficient auto body repair technicians.
For those with an affinity for the outdoors and a desire to live off the beaten path, Alaska offers an unparalleled lifestyle. Its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife provide a stunning backdrop for both personal and professional life.
3. Massachusetts: $60,750
As home to a major East Coast urban center, Massachusetts experiences significant traffic congestion and a corresponding number of accidents. Additionally, Massachusetts has a diverse economy with strong sectors in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, according to U.S. News & World Report, contributing to a vibrant and busy environment.
Massachusetts combines historical significance with modern dynamism, making it an attractive state for many. From Boston’s historic cobblestone streets to the scenic landscapes of Cape Cod and the Berkshire Mountains, the state offers a rich array of experiences.
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4. District of Columbia: $59,540
The District of Columbia is a hub where history, culture, and political activity converge. From iconic monuments along the National Mall to the vibrant nightlife of the U Street corridor, D.C. is a dynamic and bustling locale. Its diverse economy which includes federal government, education, and tourism, ensures consistent opportunities for collision repair technicians.
In Washington D.C., auto body professionals may find themselves repairing vehicles for government fleets, busy commuters, or rental agencies serving tourists, offering a diverse and engaging career environment in the nation’s capital.
5. New Jersey: $58,920
New Jersey, the Garden State, has a strong economic foundation in transportation and advanced manufacturing, sectors that are highly supportive of the collision repair industry. From the busy urban areas of Newark and Jersey City to the tranquil coastal towns of Cape May, New Jersey offers a wide range of lifestyles and opportunities.
Collision repair technicians in New Jersey might focus on repairing vehicles for daily commuters, servicing commercial fleets, or maintaining rental cars for tourists. The state’s blend of urban and coastal living provides a unique backdrop for a thriving career.
6. California: $58,420
California is recognized as the most expensive state to live in the United States, although living costs can vary significantly across the state. Driving conditions and hazards also differ widely, from heavy traffic in Los Angeles to high-speed highway driving during road trips. This variety in driving environments across California ensures a continuous demand for skilled collision repair technicians throughout the state.
Read: The Apprentice: Collision Repair Technician Alyssa Culver
7. Connecticut: $57,760
Connecticut has consistently received low safety rankings for drivers. In 2018, a safe driving report ranked Connecticut drivers as the least safe in the nation, following a 49th place ranking the previous year. While concerning for residents, this data indicates a steady need for qualified collision repair technicians in Connecticut.
Connecticut offers a blend of urban convenience and small-town charm, appealing to a variety of preferences. From the historic maritime atmosphere of Mystic to the lively nightlife in New Haven, Connecticut provides a balanced lifestyle with diverse attractions.
8. Nevada: $57,420
Nevada’s driving landscape includes a mix of urban, suburban, and rural environments, leading to a consistent rate of vehicle accidents that require the skills of auto body technicians. The Silver State’s economy is driven by transportation, tourism, and gaming industries, all of which support the demand for collision repair services.
Whether technicians are restoring vehicles for locals in Las Vegas, managing fleets for casinos, or ensuring rental cars are in excellent condition for tourists, Nevada offers a dynamic job market for auto body professionals. Beyond work, Nevada is known for its vibrant entertainment in Las Vegas and stunning outdoor activities around Lake Tahoe.
9. Virginia: $52,300
Virginia seamlessly blends historical significance with modern living. The Old Dominion’s key industries include transportation, military operations, and tourism sectors, all contributing to a stable demand for auto body repair services. In Virginia, technicians might repair vehicles for military personnel, maintain commercial fleets, or prepare rental cars for tourists.
Virginia’s diverse and robust economy ensures a continued need for skilled technicians. From historical sites in Williamsburg to cultural events in Richmond, Virginia offers a rich and varied environment for residents.
10. Colorado: $48,070
Colorado’s snowy climate and mountainous terrain can increase the frequency of vehicle collisions. AutoInc reports that Colorado faces a backlog in collision repairs due to events like hailstorms, leading to appointment wait times of several weeks. This high demand makes Colorado a promising state for auto body repair technicians.
Colorado’s dramatic landscapes offer a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing in the mountains to hiking in national forests. Its capital, Denver, is also a cultural center with notable museums and a lively nightlife.
Read: How a UTI Grad Became an Auto Technician for Some of the Planet’s Coolest Cars
Collision Repair Salary FAQs
1. What is the median auto body tech salary in the United States?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023, the median collision repair technician salary in the United States was $48,740. This median value indicates that half of all technicians earn more than this amount, while half earn less, reflecting the salary range influenced by factors like experience and location.
2. How does experience level affect the salary of an auto body tech?
Experience is a major factor in determining an auto body technician’s earning potential. Generally, technicians with more experience can command higher salaries due to their enhanced skills, efficiency, and expertise. Entry-level positions typically start at a lower pay scale compared to experienced technicians.
3. What are the top-paying states for auto body technicians?
The states with the highest median salaries for auto body technicians include Rhode Island, Alaska, and Massachusetts, where median incomes exceed $60,000 annually. These higher salaries often correlate with increased demand for collision repair services due to local driving conditions and the higher cost of living in these regions.
Read: Meet Our Instructors: Frank Cutajar
Begin Your Training for a Collision Repair Career
As long as vehicles are on the road, the likelihood of accidents and the subsequent need for repairs will persist. This reality ensures a consistent demand for skilled auto body repair technicians who can effectively restore damaged vehicles.
If you are drawn to working with cars and trucks and find satisfaction in restoring them to their pre-accident condition, UTI’s Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) program can provide you with the necessary training to pursue a career in this field. UTI’s program is specifically designed to equip you with the essential skills to repair and refinish a wide variety of vehicles.
To discover more about this career path, explore our program page and request information online. You can also reach out to an Admissions Representative directly at 1-800-834-7308 for further details.
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1 UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
28 UTI’s Collision Repair & Refinishing Technology (CRRT) Program prepares graduates for entry-level positions using the provided training, primarily as collision repair technicians. Estimated annual salary shown above is for Automotive Body and Related Repairers as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages. Entry-level salaries are lower for UTI graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. UTI graduates’ achievements may vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Some UTI graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as a collision repair technician, such as appraiser, estimator and inspector. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary for persons employed as Automotive Body and Related Repairers (49-3021) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $40,530 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2022 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageAllIndustries/OEWResult?A=01&GA=000025&OG=493021&Dopt=TEXT#). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled collision repair technicians in North Carolina is $23.43 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages, Automotive Body and Related Repairers). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $21.04 and $17.01, respectively.
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