Auto Body Technician Salary in the USA: Pay by State, Hourly Wage and Job Outlook
If you are looking for an Auto Body Technician Salary in the USA, the pay can be quite different depending on the state, experience, type of repair shop, and the kind of collision work you do. An Auto Body Technician, also called an automotive body repairer or collision repair technician, works on damaged vehicles and helps bring cars back to their proper shape after accidents. As of the latest BLS wage data, automotive body and related repairers have a median annual wage of about $54,890 in the United States. Entry-level workers can earn less, while experienced technicians, especially those with strong repair and refinishing skills, can earn much more. In this guide, we will look at Auto Body Technician Salary, hourly pay, Auto Body Technician Salary by State, starting pay, and the factors that can change your paycheck.
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Auto Body Technician Salary in the USA
Auto Body Technician pay is not one fixed number for everybody. A person working in a small local body shop may have a different salary than a technician working for a large dealership or collision repair company. Experience also makes a real difference. Someone who is just starting may need time to learn estimating, body repair, frame work, sanding, refinishing and other shop work. An experienced technician who can handle difficult collision repairs may have a better earning opportunity.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics groups this occupation under Automotive Body and Related Repairers. The May 2025 BLS data shows a median annual wage of $54,890. The lower 10 percent earned less than $36,910, while the top 10 percent earned more than $87,940. This gives a better picture of why online salary numbers can look very different from one another.
State Wise Salary for Auto Body Technicians
Auto Body Technician Salary by State can change a lot across the country. The table below shows the median annual wage reported for Automotive Body and Related Repairers in each state using May 2025 BLS-based data. These numbers are useful for getting a general idea of local pay, but an actual job offer can be higher or lower based on experience, employer, certifications, repair skills and the local market.
| State | Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $52,040 |
| Alaska | $61,680 |
| Arizona | $54,510 |
| Arkansas | $49,310 |
| California | $66,860 |
| Colorado | $59,880 |
| Connecticut | $58,220 |
| Delaware | $48,780 |
| Florida | $48,600 |
| Georgia | $51,190 |
| Hawaii | $60,540 |
| Idaho | $49,200 |
| Illinois | $52,020 |
| Indiana | $51,160 |
| Iowa | $49,400 |
| Kansas | $48,920 |
| Kentucky | $46,080 |
| Louisiana | $47,150 |
| Maine | $50,350 |
| Maryland | $56,100 |
| Massachusetts | $59,300 |
| Michigan | $56,880 |
| Minnesota | $60,970 |
| Mississippi | $49,500 |
| Missouri | $60,540 |
| Montana | $57,500 |
| Nebraska | $54,130 |
| Nevada | $60,520 |
| New Hampshire | $52,790 |
| New Jersey | $62,400 |
| New Mexico | $48,260 |
| New York | $47,670 |
| North Carolina | $50,520 |
| North Dakota | $55,160 |
| Ohio | $49,080 |
| Oklahoma | $48,810 |
| Oregon | $60,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $53,660 |
| Rhode Island | $72,490 |
| South Carolina | $53,290 |
| South Dakota | $49,460 |
| Tennessee | $47,460 |
| Texas | $51,700 |
| Utah | $50,200 |
| Vermont | $50,900 |
| Virginia | $57,760 |
| Washington | $58,340 |
| West Virginia | $47,090 |
| Wisconsin | $56,660 |
| Wyoming | $49,200 |
Auto Body Technician Salary in Alabama
Alabama has a solid market for auto body repair work because cars and trucks are a normal part of everyday life across the state. The median annual pay for automotive body and related repairers is about $52,040 based on the latest BLS-based state data. An Auto Body Technician working in a busy collision shop can see different pay depending on experience and the type of repair work handled.
In Alabama, technicians may work on:
- Collision and accident damage
- Body panel replacement and repair
- Vehicle frame and structural repairs
- Sanding and preparation before refinishing
- Damage inspection and repair estimates
Auto Body Technician Salary in Alaska
Auto Body Technician Salary in Alaska is higher than the national median in the latest state data, with a median annual wage of around $61,680. Working conditions and the local cost of running a repair business can be different in Alaska, and technicians may work on many types of vehicles because dependable transportation is important in the state.
Experience can matter a lot here. A technician who can do several parts of the repair process instead of only one small task may have more options when looking for Auto Body Technician Jobs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Arizona
Arizona has a large number of vehicles on the road, and auto repair shops are found in both larger cities and smaller communities. The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is about $54,510. This makes Arizona an important state to consider when researching Auto Body Technician Salary by State.
Daily work can include repairing damaged bumpers, doors, fenders and other body parts. Some technicians also spend a good amount of time preparing vehicles for painting. Good attention to small details is important because a repair can look fine from a distance but still show problems when the customer looks closely.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Arkansas
In Arkansas, the median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is around $49,310. Local repair shops, dealerships and collision centers can all have different pay structures. For a new Auto Body Technician, starting salary may be lower than the state median while they are still building shop experience.
A technician can improve their skills by getting more comfortable with:
- Basic collision repair
- Body panel removal and installation
- Surface preparation
- Damage measurement
- Repair tools and shop equipment
Auto Body Technician Salary in California
California is one of the biggest automotive markets in the country, and the state also has a large number of people working in automotive body repair. The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is about $66,860 in the latest BLS-based data. California also has many large metropolitan areas where collision repair shops and dealerships employ technicians.
Auto Body Technician Salary in California can change quite a bit depending on the city and employer. A technician working in a major metro area may see a different wage than somebody working in a smaller community. Living costs are also different from one part of California to another, so salary alone does not tell the full story.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Colorado
Colorado reports a median annual wage of about $59,880 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto body technicians in the state can work in independent repair shops, dealerships and collision centers. Technicians who know both structural and cosmetic repair work may handle a wider range of jobs.
For someone searching for Auto Body Technician Jobs in Colorado, it is useful to look at the complete job offer and not only the advertised hourly rate. Benefits, overtime, production incentives and the type of pay system used by the shop can also affect total earnings.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Connecticut
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Connecticut is around $58,220. The state has a mix of local body shops, dealerships and larger repair businesses. An Auto Body Technician may work on everything from small dents and bumper damage to larger accident repairs.
Technicians who become comfortable with newer vehicle repair methods can have more skills to offer employers. Modern vehicles can have sensors, cameras and other systems around the body, so careful repair and correct procedures are becoming more important in collision work.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Delaware
Delaware has a median annual wage of about $48,780 for automotive body and related repairers. Since the state is smaller, local job opportunities can be closely connected with nearby metro areas and surrounding states. This means a technician may want to check job listings across a wider area when comparing Auto Body Technician Salary.
For new workers, the first job may be more about getting real shop experience than immediately reaching the higher end of the salary range. Over time, practical skills and experience can make a difference in pay.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Florida
Florida has a large number of vehicles and a strong need for automotive repair services. The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is about $48,600. Auto Body Technician Salary in Florida can still vary based on location, shop size, experience and the type of collision work being done.
Some common work for technicians includes:
- Repairing accident damage
- Replacing damaged body parts
- Fixing dents and panels
- Preparing surfaces for paint
- Checking the finished repair for fit and appearance
Auto Body Technician Salary in Georgia
Georgia has a median annual wage of about $51,190 for automotive body and related repairers. The state has both large cities and smaller communities, so Auto Body Technician Jobs can be found in different types of repair businesses. A technician with several years of hands-on experience may qualify for jobs with more responsibility.
Collision repair is not only about making a vehicle look good again. A proper repair also needs to deal with the damaged parts correctly and return the vehicle to the required condition. That is why experienced technicians can be valuable to a busy body shop.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Hawaii
Hawaii has a median annual wage of about $60,540 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Hawaii can be different from one employer to another because the local market, shop size and technician experience all matter. A technician working in a busy collision repair shop may have a different pay package than someone working in a small local body shop.
The work can include repairing damaged body panels, replacing parts, preparing surfaces and checking the vehicle after repairs. Since transportation is important for daily life, auto body repair remains a useful trade for people with the right hands-on skills.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Idaho
In Idaho, the median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is around $49,200. For someone searching for an Auto Body Technician Salary in Idaho, it is important to remember that the number is a general wage figure and not a guaranteed salary for every technician.
New technicians often start with basic repair duties and learn more complicated work as they gain experience. With time, they may take on larger collision repairs and more detailed body work.
- Minor collision damage repair
- Body panel repair and replacement
- Vehicle preparation before painting
- Basic structural repair work
Auto Body Technician Salary in Illinois
Illinois has a median annual wage of about $52,020 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Jobs are available through independent collision shops, dealerships and larger automotive repair businesses. Pay can be different between Chicago-area jobs and positions in smaller towns.
An experienced Auto Body Technician may be able to earn more when they can handle several parts of the repair process. Skills in collision repair, measuring damage and using modern repair equipment can be useful when looking for better-paying work.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Indiana
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Indiana is about $51,160. Auto Body Technician Salary in Indiana depends on experience, location, employer and the type of repair work being done.
Many technicians spend their day repairing vehicles after crashes. The job can involve removing damaged parts, straightening or replacing panels, preparing surfaces and making sure repaired parts fit correctly before the vehicle leaves the shop.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Iowa
In Iowa, automotive body and related repairers have a median annual wage of around $49,400. Someone starting an Auto Body Technician career may earn below this figure during the early part of their career. As practical shop experience grows, pay can change with the technician's skills and responsibilities.
Auto body work is a hands-on job, so employers often look for people who are comfortable using tools and working carefully. Being able to follow repair procedures and pay attention to small details is also important.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Kansas
Kansas reports a median annual wage of approximately $48,920 for automotive body and related repairers. The Auto Body Technician Salary can be higher or lower depending on the repair shop, location and the worker's experience.
For people entering the trade, an entry-level body shop job can be a way to learn the basics. Many workers gradually move into more advanced collision repair work after gaining real shop experience.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Kentucky
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Kentucky is around $46,080. This figure gives a general idea of Auto Body Technician Pay in the state, but individual jobs can have different hourly rates and compensation arrangements.
Some shops may use hourly pay, while others can have production-based or other pay arrangements. Because of this, workers should check the full job details before comparing two Auto Body Technician Jobs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Louisiana
Louisiana has a median annual wage of about $47,150 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Louisiana may change based on the city, employer, experience level and type of collision work.
A technician who can repair different types of vehicle damage may have more work options. Basic body repair is only one part of the trade, and some technicians develop skills in structural repair, refinishing preparation and other areas as they move forward.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Maine
Maine reports a median annual wage of around $50,350 for automotive body and related repairers. An Auto Body Technician in Maine may work for an independent body shop, dealership or collision repair business.
Starting salary is normally influenced by how much previous training and practical experience a worker has. Someone with limited experience may begin with simpler tasks and gradually take on more difficult repairs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Maryland
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Maryland is approximately $56,100. Auto Body Technician Salary in Maryland can vary between different areas of the state, especially when comparing larger metropolitan markets with smaller communities.
Collision repair technicians may work on cars, trucks and other vehicles that have suffered accident damage. The job requires physical work and careful use of tools, especially when damaged body parts need to be removed, repaired or replaced.
- Inspecting damaged vehicles
- Removing damaged components
- Repairing or replacing body parts
- Preparing repaired areas
- Checking the final fit and finish
Auto Body Technician Salary in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a median annual wage of about $59,300 for automotive body and related repairers. People searching for Auto Body Technician Salary in Massachusetts should also compare the hourly wage, benefits and work schedule because annual income depends on more than the basic wage.
Experienced collision repair technicians may have opportunities to work on more complicated vehicle damage. Shops also need technicians who can work accurately and keep repairs moving without creating additional problems.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Michigan
Michigan is closely connected with the automotive industry, and the state has a wide range of automotive repair businesses. The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is about $56,880.
An Auto Body Technician in Michigan may work in a dealership, independent body shop or collision center. The exact Auto Body Technician Pay can depend on experience and the type of repair work assigned to the technician.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Minnesota
Minnesota has a median annual wage of approximately $60,970 for automotive body and related repairers. This makes salary research especially useful for people comparing Auto Body Technician Jobs in different parts of the state.
A technician's earning level can change as they learn more repair methods. Workers who can handle both basic and advanced collision work may have a broader range of job opportunities.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Mississippi
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Mississippi is around $49,500. Auto Body Technician Salary in Mississippi can be different depending on the shop, location and experience of the worker.
For beginners, the first few years are often focused on building practical skills. Learning how to use shop tools correctly and understanding different repair procedures can help a new technician become more useful in a body shop.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Missouri
Missouri reports a median annual wage of about $60,540 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Missouri may differ between large cities and smaller communities, so job seekers should compare local openings instead of looking at only one salary number.
The work can include collision repair, body panel replacement, surface preparation and other vehicle body repairs. Good workmanship matters because customers normally expect the repaired vehicle to look close to its original condition.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Montana
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Montana is around $57,500. A technician looking for Auto Body Technician Jobs in Montana may find opportunities in local repair shops, dealerships and collision businesses.
Experience can make a noticeable difference in this trade. A new worker may start by helping with simpler repairs, while an experienced technician can take responsibility for more difficult collision jobs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Nebraska
Nebraska has a median annual wage of about $54,130 for automotive body and related repairers. This is close to the national median for the occupation, although individual Auto Body Technician Salary offers can vary.
Technicians should also look at whether a position is full-time, what benefits are included and how overtime or additional work is paid. These details can change the actual yearly income.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Nevada
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Nevada is approximately $60,520. Auto Body Technician Salary in Nevada depends on the local job market, shop and experience level.
Collision repair work can be busy in areas with a large number of vehicles. A technician who develops strong repair and finishing skills may be able to take on a wider variety of jobs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in New Hampshire
New Hampshire reports a median annual wage of around $52,790 for automotive body and related repairers. An Auto Body Technician working in the state may find jobs with dealerships, independent body shops and collision repair centers.
Starting Auto Body Technician Salary is usually not the same as the median wage for the whole occupation. Beginners are still learning and may need several years of experience before reaching higher pay levels.
Auto Body Technician Salary in New Jersey
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in New Jersey is about $62,400. Auto Body Technician Salary in New Jersey can vary by location and employer, and jobs in larger markets may have different pay structures.
Technicians may repair everything from small dents and damaged bumpers to larger accident-related body damage. Modern collision repair can also require careful attention around vehicle sensors and other equipment installed near the body.
Auto Body Technician Salary in New Mexico
New Mexico has a median annual wage of approximately $48,260 for automotive body and related repairers. For someone researching Auto Body Technician Pay in New Mexico, the actual hourly wage can depend on experience, employer and the type of work being performed.
A worker who learns several areas of collision repair can build a stronger skill set over time. Training and hands-on practice can be especially useful for someone starting without much previous automotive experience.
Auto Body Technician Salary in New York
New York has a median annual wage of around $47,670 for automotive body and related repairers in the latest state data. Auto Body Technician Salary in New York can vary significantly between different local markets, so workers should check the salary offered for the specific job and area.
Large repair facilities may have different work systems compared with small independent shops. Before accepting a position, it can be useful to ask about hourly pay, overtime, benefits and whether the position uses any production-based pay system.
Auto Body Technician Salary in North Carolina
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in North Carolina is about $50,520. Auto Body Technician Jobs can be found in dealerships, independent repair shops and collision centers across the state.
A technician's pay can increase as their responsibilities grow. Workers who can handle body repair from damage inspection through final preparation may have more skills to offer an employer.
Auto Body Technician Salary in North Dakota
North Dakota reports a median annual wage of approximately $55,160 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in North Dakota depends on the employer, experience and local demand for collision repair services.
Someone starting in the trade may first learn basic shop procedures and smaller repair jobs. With more experience, they can move into larger repair assignments and more technical work.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Ohio
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Ohio is around $49,080. Auto Body Technician Salary in Ohio can be different from one shop to another because employers may use different pay structures.
Technicians can work on many different vehicle makes and models. Knowing how to properly repair panels, replace damaged parts and prepare surfaces is an important part of the job.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a median annual wage of about $48,810 for automotive body and related repairers. People searching for Auto Body Technician Jobs in Oklahoma should compare the advertised hourly pay with the full compensation package.
For an entry-level Auto Body Technician, the first position can be an important step toward learning the trade. Practical experience in a real shop can help build confidence with tools, repair procedures and customer vehicle work.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Oregon
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Oregon is around $60,000. Auto Body Technician Salary in Oregon can change based on the city, employer, experience and level of collision repair work.
Some technicians focus mainly on body repair while others learn additional parts of the repair process. Having more than one useful skill can help when searching for work or moving to a different shop.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania reports a median annual wage of approximately $53,660 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Pennsylvania can vary by location and by the type of body shop where a technician works.
Independent shops and large collision repair businesses may have different working conditions and pay systems. A worker should look at the complete job offer rather than choosing a position only because of one advertised salary number.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Rhode Island
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Rhode Island is about $72,490. The figure is a state-level median and should not be treated as a guaranteed salary for every Auto Body Technician.
Individual pay can still depend on experience, employer, working hours and the type of repair work. Technicians with strong collision repair skills may qualify for positions with different responsibilities than entry-level workers.
Auto Body Technician Salary in South Carolina
South Carolina has a median annual wage of around $53,290 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in South Carolina can change according to the local market and the experience of the technician.
The job is generally hands-on and can involve standing, bending, lifting parts and working with different shop tools. People considering this career should understand that auto body repair is physical work and not only a desk job.
Auto Body Technician Salary in South Dakota
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in South Dakota is about $49,460. An Auto Body Technician may work on accident damage, dents, panels and other vehicle body problems.
Starting pay can be lower for workers who are new to the trade. As skills improve and the technician becomes able to complete more repairs independently, their earning opportunities can change.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Tennessee
Tennessee reports a median annual wage of approximately $47,460 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Tennessee depends on the shop, location, experience and repair specialty.
A technician who develops skills in collision repair, body panel work and surface preparation can handle a broader range of jobs. This can be useful when looking for long-term work in the automotive repair field.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Texas
Texas has a large automotive market, and the median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers is around $51,700. Auto Body Technician Salary in Texas can be different depending on the city, repair shop, experience and type of collision work. A technician working in a busy shop may have a different earning level than someone working in a smaller local business.
Texas Auto Body Technicians can work on cars, trucks, SUVs and other vehicles. Common work includes repairing damaged panels, replacing body parts, preparing surfaces and helping return accident-damaged vehicles to good condition.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Utah
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Utah is about $50,200. Auto Body Technician Salary in Utah can change based on experience and the type of shop where the technician works.
Someone new to the trade may begin with basic body repair and shop duties. With more hands-on experience, a technician can learn more difficult collision repairs and take on additional responsibilities.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Vermont
Vermont has a median annual wage of approximately $50,900 for automotive body and related repairers. For people searching Auto Body Technician Jobs in Vermont, the actual salary offered by an employer can be different from the state median.
Small independent body shops are common in many local markets, while some technicians may also find work with dealerships or larger repair businesses. Experience and practical repair skills remain important when comparing different jobs.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Virginia
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Virginia is around $57,760. Auto Body Technician Salary in Virginia can vary between different cities and employers. Workers with more experience may qualify for positions that involve more complex collision repair.
Technicians may spend part of their day inspecting damaged vehicles and another part repairing panels or preparing repaired areas. Careful work is important because the finished vehicle needs to have proper fit, appearance and repair quality.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Washington
Washington reports a median annual wage of approximately $58,340 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Washington can vary based on location, experience, employer and the kind of collision work being performed.
Modern vehicles can require technicians to work carefully around sensors, cameras and other equipment installed in or around the body. Learning current repair procedures can therefore be useful for technicians who want to continue in the trade.
Auto Body Technician Salary in West Virginia
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in West Virginia is about $47,090. An Auto Body Technician working in the state may find opportunities at independent body shops, dealerships and collision repair facilities.
Entry-level workers can start by learning basic repair tasks and proper use of tools. Over time, they may move into more complicated repairs as their experience increases.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has a median annual wage of approximately $56,660 for automotive body and related repairers. Auto Body Technician Salary in Wisconsin depends on the employer, location and level of experience.
A technician who can work on different kinds of body damage may have more options when searching for jobs. Collision repair can include several steps, so having a wider skill set can be useful in a busy repair shop.
Auto Body Technician Salary in Wyoming
The median annual wage for automotive body and related repairers in Wyoming is around $49,200. Auto Body Technician Salary in Wyoming can change depending on the local shop, experience and type of repair work.
For a person entering the trade, hands-on experience is one of the important parts of learning the job. A new technician may start with simple work before taking responsibility for larger collision repairs.
Auto Body Technician Hourly Pay
Many people searching for Auto Body Technician Salary are also looking for the hourly pay. The hourly amount can be useful when comparing jobs, but there is no single hourly rate for every technician in the USA. Based on the national median annual wage of $54,890, a simple 2,080-hour work-year calculation comes to roughly $26.39 per hour.
Actual Auto Body Technician hourly pay can be lower or higher than this simple calculation. Some employers use different pay systems, and overtime, production pay, bonuses or other compensation can also change total earnings.
- Entry-level hourly pay can be below the national median equivalent.
- Experienced technicians can earn higher hourly rates.
- Collision repair specialty can affect pay.
- Location and local demand can change wages.
- Overtime and other compensation may increase yearly income.
Auto Body Technician Starting Salary
Auto Body Technician Starting Salary is normally lower than the median salary for the entire occupation because the median includes workers with different levels of experience. Someone entering the trade for the first time may need to learn shop procedures before handling larger repair jobs independently.
The first job is often a place to build practical experience. A new technician may work under more experienced workers and gradually learn how to repair panels, replace parts, prepare surfaces and complete other collision repair tasks.
When looking at an entry-level Auto Body Technician job, it is useful to check more than just the starting wage:
- Training provided by the employer
- Hourly or production-based pay
- Overtime opportunities
- Health and retirement benefits
- Tools or equipment provided by the shop
- Opportunities to learn advanced repair work
Auto Body Technician Salary by Experience
Experience is one of the factors that can affect Auto Body Technician Pay. A person with only a short amount of shop experience normally does not have the same responsibilities as a technician who has been repairing collision damage for many years.
With experience, technicians can become more comfortable with complicated repairs, measuring damaged areas, replacing body parts and working with modern repair equipment. This can open different job opportunities, although actual salary still depends on the employer and local market.
Entry-Level Auto Body Technician
An entry-level Auto Body Technician is usually still learning the trade. The worker may assist experienced technicians and handle simpler repair tasks. Starting salary can be below the national median, but gaining real shop experience is an important part of building a career.
Experienced Auto Body Technician
An experienced technician can normally handle a wider range of repair work with less supervision. Their duties may include more complicated collision repairs, body panel replacement and other detailed work. Because of the additional skills, experienced technicians may see higher pay opportunities than beginners.
Advanced Collision Repair Technician
Technicians with advanced collision repair skills can work on more difficult vehicle damage. Some may also become specialists in structural repair, refinishing preparation or other parts of the collision repair process. The exact salary depends on the job and employer, but specialized skills can be useful when looking for higher-paying positions.
What Affects Auto Body Technician Salary?
There are several reasons why two Auto Body Technicians doing similar work may not earn the same amount. Salary data gives a useful average, but a real job offer depends on the situation.
- Experience: More hands-on experience can qualify a worker for more advanced duties.
- Location: Auto Body Technician Salary by State can be very different across the USA.
- Employer: Dealerships, independent shops and large collision centers can have different pay structures.
- Repair skills: Workers with a broader range of collision repair skills may have more job options.
- Certifications and training: Relevant training can help a technician show employers their knowledge and skills.
- Type of vehicle: Some shops specialize in particular vehicle types or repair work.
- Work schedule: Overtime and additional hours can affect yearly earnings.
Auto Body Technician vs Collision Repair Technician
People often use the terms Auto Body Technician and Collision Repair Technician for similar types of work. Both can involve repairing vehicles after accidents and fixing damaged body parts. The exact job title depends on the employer.
A collision repair technician may work on a larger part of the repair process, while an auto body technician may have duties focused more directly on body repair. When searching for jobs, it can help to search both terms because employers do not always use the same job title for similar work.
What Does an Auto Body Technician Do?
An Auto Body Technician repairs vehicle bodies after crashes, dents and other damage. The exact duties depend on the repair shop and the technician's role. Some jobs focus on smaller cosmetic repairs, while others involve larger collision damage.
Common Auto Body Technician duties can include:
- Inspecting vehicle body damage
- Removing damaged body parts
- Repairing or replacing panels
- Using hand and power tools
- Preparing surfaces for refinishing
- Checking panel alignment and fit
- Following repair procedures
- Working with other collision repair staff
How Much Does an Auto Body Technician Make?
So, how much does an Auto Body Technician make in the USA? The latest BLS wage data for Automotive Body and Related Repairers shows a national median annual wage of $54,890. That works out to about $26.39 an hour when divided across a standard 2,080-hour work year. But this is a statistical comparison, not a fixed hourly wage that every technician receives.
The lowest-paid workers can earn considerably less, while workers near the top of the wage distribution can earn considerably more. The BLS May 2025 data shows the bottom 10 percent below $36,910 and the top 10 percent above $87,940.
Auto Body Technician Job Outlook
Auto body repair is a hands-on automotive trade, and vehicles will continue to need repair after crashes and other damage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks Automotive Body and Related Repairers as an occupation within installation, maintenance and repair work.
Technology is also changing the repair process. Newer vehicles can include advanced materials, cameras, sensors and other systems. Because of this, technicians may need to keep learning new repair procedures instead of relying only on older methods.
For people interested in this career, practical training and experience can be useful. The job is physical and requires careful work, but it can provide a path into the automotive repair industry without requiring a traditional four-year college degree.
Is Auto Body Technician a Good Career?
Whether this career is right for someone depends on what kind of work they want. Auto body repair is practical, hands-on work and technicians spend much of their time around vehicles, tools and repair equipment. A person who likes working with their hands and solving physical repair problems may find this type of work interesting.
On the other hand, the work can be physically demanding and sometimes requires working in a busy shop environment. Before choosing the career, it makes sense to look at local Auto Body Technician Jobs, starting pay, training requirements and the type of work available in your area.
Final Thoughts on Auto Body Technician Salary
Auto Body Technician Salary in the USA depends on several things, including state, experience, employer, location and repair skills. The latest BLS data shows a national median wage of $54,890 for Automotive Body and Related Repairers, but individual workers can earn less or more than this amount.
State differences are also important. The salary table in this guide shows how the median wage changes across the country. Someone planning to enter this trade should compare local job listings and look at the complete compensation package instead of using one national number as their expected salary.
For beginners, the most important step can be building real repair experience and learning the trade properly. As skills grow, a technician may take on more complicated collision repair work and look for positions with higher earning opportunities. In the end, Auto Body Technician Pay is closely connected with the work being done, the local market and the technician's level of experience.