Bricklayer/Mason vs Tile Setter: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a bricklayer/mason or a tile setter? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🧱 Bricklayer/Mason | 💠 Tile Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $26/hr | $23/hr |
| Median Annual | $54,100/yr | $47,800/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | -2.0% | 0.0% |
| Total Jobs | 65,100 | 62,500 |
| Training Time | 4 years | 3-4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($72,300/yr) | Hawaii ($65,400/yr) |
| Union Rate | $32/hr (BAC) | $28.50/hr (BAC) |
Salary Comparison
Bricklayer/Masons earn about $2,800/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both bricklayer/masons and tile setters 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 Tile Setter if...
Tile setters install ceramic, porcelain, marble, and other tiles on floors, walls, and countertops. Skilled tile work is a craft, and experienced setters who do custom or high-end work can command strong rates.
Tile Setter salary data →Training difference: Bricklayers train slightly longer (4 yrs vs 3-4 yrs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Bricklayer/Masons earn a national median of $54,100/yr compared to $47,800/yr for tile setters. That's a difference of about $6,300/yr.
Tile Setter jobs are projected to grow at 0.0% over the next decade, compared to -2.0% for bricklayer/masons.
Bricklayers train slightly longer (4 yrs vs 3-4 yrs). 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.