Bricklayer/Mason vs Stonemason: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a bricklayer/mason or a stonemason? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🧱 Bricklayer/Mason | 🪨 Stonemason |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $26/hr | $24/hr |
| Median Annual | $54,100/yr | $49,900/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | -2.0% | -2.0% |
| Total Jobs | 65,100 | 28,300 |
| Training Time | 4 years | 4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($72,300/yr) | Hawaii ($63,900/yr) |
| Union Rate | $32/hr (BAC) | $30/hr (BAC) |
Salary Comparison
Stonemasons earn about $4,200/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both bricklayer/masons and stonemasons are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🧱 Choose Bricklayer/Mason if...
Bricklayers and masons build and repair walls, floors, walkways, and other structures using brick, concrete block, stone, and related materials. The work is physically demanding, but skilled masons are always in demand for both new construction and restoration.
Bricklayer/Mason salary data →🪨 Choose Stonemason if...
Stonemasons cut, shape, and install natural and manufactured stone for walls, floors, facades, and decorative features. Skilled stone work commands premium rates, especially in restoration and high-end residential.
Stonemason salary data →Training difference: Both require 4-year BAC apprenticeships
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Bricklayer/Masons earn a national median of $54,100/yr compared to $49,900/yr for stonemasons. That's a difference of about $4,200/yr.
Stonemason jobs are projected to grow at -2.0% over the next decade, compared to -2.0% for bricklayer/masons.
Both require 4-year BAC apprenticeships. Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.