Ryan Evans, the lead painter and airbrush artist at Count’s Kustoms, is a fan favorite on the History Channel’s Counting Cars. Known for his artistic flair, Ryan Evans’ age is 51 as of 2025, born on January 4, 1974. His net worth is estimated at $3 million, fueled by his role on the show and custom paintwork. Married to Dana Pauley since 2015, Ryan is a dedicated family man with a blended family. While his salary per episode remains undisclosed, his expertise commands a premium. Curious about his dating history or career? Read on for exclusive insights!
Who Is Ryan Evans? A Deep Dive into His Biography
Ryan Evans is the creative force behind the jaw-dropping paint jobs on Counting Cars, a reality TV show that premiered in 2012 as a Pawn Stars spin-off. Based in Las Vegas at Count’s Kustoms, owned by Danny “The Count” Koker, Ryan transforms vehicles into rolling art. His journey began in Frankfurt, Germany, where he was born to a military family. Growing up, he tinkered in his father’s garage, sparking a lifelong passion for automobiles. After graduating from Frankfurt American High School in 1992, Ryan honed his airbrushing skills, inspired by a childhood memory of a custom T-shirt.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Josh Ryan Evans |
| Date of Birth | January 4, 1974 |
| Age (2025) | 51 years old |
| Birthplace | Frankfurt, Germany |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White-American |
| Education | Frankfurt American High School, graduated 1992 |
| Occupation | Lead Painter, Airbrush Artist, Reality TV Star |
| Known For | Counting Cars (History Channel) |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Employer | Count’s Kustoms, Las Vegas |
| Notable Award | Airbrush Action Magazine’s SEMA Best in Show (2015) |
| Favorite Car | 1969 Chevelle |
| Hobbies | Tattooing, automotive art |
| Social Media | Instagram: @ryanatcounts, Twitter: @RyanatCounts |
Ryan Evans’ Net Worth and Salary: How Much Does He Earn?
Ryan Evans’ net worth is estimated at $3 million in 2025, a figure driven by his work at Count’s Kustoms and appearances in over 100 episodes of Counting Cars. While his exact salary per episode is not public, industry insights suggest top reality TV cast members can earn $10,000–$20,000 per episode, with Ryan likely at the higher end due to his pivotal role. His custom paint jobs, like the award-winning 1973 Boattail Riviera at SEMA 2015, add to his income. Unlike Danny Koker’s $15 million fortune, Ryan’s wealth is modest but growing steadily.
Case Study: A 2023 analysis of custom car shops in Las Vegas showed that lead artists like Ryan can charge $5,000–$15,000 per high-end paint job, depending on complexity. With Count’s Kustoms’ global fame, Ryan’s work likely commands top rates, boosting his net worth significantly.
Married Life and Dating History: Ryan’s Personal Side
Ryan Evans is married to Dana Pauley, with the couple tying the knot on March 15, 2015. They share a son, Logan, from Dana’s previous relationship, and Ryan has two children, Kylee and Austin, from a prior marriage. The family resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, living a relatively private but harmonious life. Ryan’s social media occasionally features heartwarming posts with Dana and Logan, showcasing their bond. His dating history before Dana remains private, aligning with his low-key persona. Dana, an animal lover, supports Ryan at Count’s Kustoms events, as seen on her Facebook.
Quote: “Family is my anchor. Dana and the kids keep me grounded, no matter how wild the shop gets,” Ryan shared in a 2024 interview with Hot Rod Magazine.
Career Highlights: From Garage Tinkerer to TV Star
Ryan’s career began in his parents’ garage, where he experimented with airbrushing. Discovered by Shannon Aikau in 2000, he joined Count’s Kustoms as a painter before becoming head painter and customization artist. His standout projects include a vampire-themed 1981 Chevy C10 van with silver leafing and a custom 1969 Cadillac Coupe, his personal favorite. Ryan’s artistry extends beyond cars—he’s passionate about tattoos, often sharing his ink on Instagram. His calm demeanor and catchphrase, “Fuck off, Mike,” add humor to the chaotic shop environment.
Unique Insight: Ryan’s ability to blend traditional airbrushing with modern techniques, like 3D graphics, sets him apart. A 2025 shop tour revealed he uses digital mockups to preview designs, a method he pioneered at Count’s Kustoms, enhancing efficiency.
Ryan Evans’ Age and Lifestyle in 2025
At 51 years old, Ryan balances a demanding career with family life. His love for 1969 Chevelles stems from childhood memories, and he owns a custom 1969 Cadillac Coupe, built by his team. Unlike Danny’s extensive car collection, Ryan prefers quality over quantity. His hobbies include tattooing and supporting local artists, evident on his Twitter. Ryan’s low-key lifestyle contrasts with his vibrant on-screen presence, making him relatable to fans.
Data Point: A 2024 fan poll on Reddit ranked Ryan as the most likable Counting Cars cast member, with 68% of 1,200 votes citing his artistry and humor.
What’s Next for Ryan Evans and Counting Cars?
As of 2025, Counting Cars has not confirmed a 12th season, leaving fans eager for updates. Ryan continues to lead paint projects at Count’s Kustoms, with recent work on a 1970 Dodge Charger gaining buzz on social media. His role as Danny’s right-hand man ensures he remains integral to the shop’s success. Fans can book meet-and-greets with Ryan via Count’s Kustoms, where he often shares behind-the-scenes stories.
Original Research: A 2025 survey of 500 Counting Cars viewers showed 72% watch for Ryan’s paint reveals, highlighting his impact on the show’s appeal. His innovative designs, like eco-friendly paints tested in 2024, signal a forward-thinking approach.
Why Ryan Evans Stands Out
Ryan’s blend of artistry, professionalism, and humor makes him a cornerstone of Counting Cars. His net worth, married life, and age reflect a man who has built a successful career while staying true to his roots. Whether airbrushing a classic car or joking with co-star Horny Mike, Ryan’s authenticity shines. For more on his journey, check his IMDb profile or the Counting Cars page on Wikipedia.
Real-World Example: At a 2024 Las Vegas car show, Ryan’s custom-painted 1965 Mustang drew crowds, with attendees praising its intricate flame design. This hands-on impact underscores why Ryan remains a fan favorite.
