Tile Setter Salary in Milwaukee, WI (2025)
Tile Setters in the Milwaukee metro area earn a median salary of $48,700 per year, or $23.40/hr. That is $1.32/hr above the Wisconsin state average.
Milwaukee vs. Wisconsin Average
How does Milwaukee compare to the overall Wisconsin average for tile setter pay?
Milwaukee vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Milwaukee pays $1.32/hr more than the national average (+6.0%)
Milwaukee vs. National Average
Here’s how Milwaukee compares to the national average for tile setters.
Milwaukee vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Milwaukee pays $0.40/hr more than the national average (+1.7%)
Union vs. Non-Union Pay in Milwaukee
Union tile setters in Milwaukee earn around $28.08/hr, compared to $22.70/hr for non-union workers. That is a difference of $5.38/hr.
Union
$28.08/hr
Non-Union
$22.70/hr
Frequently Asked Questions
Tile Setter salaries in Wisconsin vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level tile setters 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 tile setters in Wisconsin 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 tile setters 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 tile setter 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.
Tile Setter work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The Wisconsin job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified tile setters 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 tile setter'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.
Major metropolitan areas in Wisconsin tend to pay tile setters 5-15% above the state average due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Check our city-level salary data for specific figures in your area.
Sources & Methodology
Salary data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program. Data reflects May 2024 estimates, the most recent available. Figures represent base pay before overtime, bonuses, or benefits.