Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finishers: Salary, Outlook, and How to Start (2025)
Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers earn a median salary of $54,390 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $26 per hour, with pay ranging from $36,910 at the 10th percentile to $89,320 at the 90th. It's a skilled trade with solid earning potential, especially for those who specialize or work in commercial settings.
How much Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finishers earn
The median annual wage for carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers is $54,390, with a mean wage of $59,290. Hourly, the mean wage is about $28.50, but median hourly pay is roughly $26. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $36,910, while the top 10 percent earn more than $89,320. That upper end often reflects experienced workers who own their own business or take on large commercial projects.
Pay can vary significantly by industry. Installers working in building finishing contracting tend to earn close to the median, while those in nonresidential building construction may see higher wages. Geographic location also plays a role, though national averages provide a solid baseline.
Pay by state
While specific state-level data isn't available in this report, wages for floor installers generally track with regional cost of living and construction activity. High-wage states like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to pay above the national median, while lower-wage states in the South and Midwest may fall below. For the most accurate state figures, consult the BLS's Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for your state.
How to become Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finisher
Most workers learn through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. High school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Union and contractor-sponsored apprenticeships combine paid work with classroom instruction over 3–4 years. Vocational schools and community colleges offer certificate programs in floor covering installation, which can boost job prospects.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for an apprenticeship or entry-level position with a flooring contractor.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 1–2 years for basic skills) or a formal apprenticeship (3–4 years).
- Consider voluntary certification from the International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) or the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) for career advancement.
- Check state licensing requirements; some states require a contractor license for independent work.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, demand for floor installers is driven by new construction and remodeling projects. Skilled workers should continue to find opportunities, especially those with expertise in specialty materials like hardwood or tile.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly pay for carpet, floor, and tile installers?
The mean hourly wage is about $28.50, while the median hourly wage is roughly $26. Actual pay depends on experience, location, and employer.
Do I need a license to install carpet or tile?
Licensing requirements vary by state. Some states require a contractor license for jobs over a certain dollar amount. Check with your state's licensing board for specifics.
Is floor installation a good career?
Yes, for many. The median salary of $54,390 is solid for a job that doesn't require a college degree. The top earners, who often run their own business, can make over $89,000.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finishers data.