Drywall Installer Careers & Salary Information
Drywall installers hang and finish drywall panels in residential and commercial buildings. Finishing work takes real skill, and fast, clean hangers and tapers can earn strong piece-rate pay.
National Salary Overview
Drywall Installer Specialties
Drywall Installers can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Drywall Hanger
Measures, cuts, and hangs drywall panels on walls and ceilings. Fast hangers on piece-rate jobs can earn well above hourly averages.
Drywall Taper/Finisher
Applies tape, joint compound, and texture to drywall seams for a smooth or textured finish. Skilled tapers are always in demand.
Acoustical Ceiling Installer
Installs suspended ceiling grids and acoustical tiles in commercial buildings. Cleaner work than hanging drywall with solid commercial pay.
Explore Drywall Installer Topics
Drywall Installer Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Drywall Installer salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level drywall installers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level drywall installers in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union drywall installers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified drywall installer depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Drywall Installer work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified drywall installers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a drywall installer's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.