Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Salary Guide 2025: $57,020 Median, Slow Growth
The median annual salary for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers is $57,020, or about $27 per hour. The top 10% earn above $85,480, while the bottom 10% make below $39,190. That range reflects experience, location, and specialization—finishing decorative concrete pays more than flatwork. Overall, the occupation employs 206,170 workers across the U.S., with about 14,300 job openings projected each year through 2034.
How much Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers earn
The mean annual wage is $60,050, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level positions typically start around $39,190, but experienced finishers in high-demand areas can double that. Pay varies by industry—workers in nonresidential building construction earn a mean of $62,380, while those in highway and street construction average $59,610. Overtime and union membership can push earnings higher, especially on large infrastructure projects.
- 10th percentile: $39,190
- 25th percentile: $46,870
- Median: $57,020
- 75th percentile: $70,990
- 90th percentile: $85,480
Pay by state
Hawaii pays the highest average salary at $95,890, followed by Alaska ($92,960), Illinois ($78,170), Washington ($77,520), and Oregon ($68,530). These states often have high unionization rates or high cost-of-living adjustments. At the bottom, Mississippi ($43,980), Alabama ($44,720), and Oklahoma ($45,750) offer the lowest average pay. Even in lower-paying states, experienced finishers can earn well above the median by working on specialized projects or in booming metropolitan areas.
How to become a Cement Masons and Concrete Finisher
Most cement masons learn through a 3- or 4-year apprenticeship that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must be at least 18. Some employers hire helpers directly and train them on the job. Certification from organizations like the American Concrete Institute (ACI) for flatwork finisher or concrete field testing is optional but can boost pay and job prospects. No state licensing is required, but some localities may have registration or safety training mandates.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- Find an apprenticeship through a union, contractor association, or state bureau (typically 3-4 years).
- Alternatively, start as a laborer or helper and receive informal on-the-job training.
- Obtain ACI certification if working on specialized flatwork or testing.
- Advance to foreman, supervisor, or self-employment with experience.
Job outlook
Employment of cement masons and concrete finishers is projected to grow 1.8% from 2024 to 2034—slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 14,300 openings each year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. The slow growth is partly due to productivity gains from new equipment and prefabricated concrete products. Still, demand remains steady for new roads, bridges, and commercial buildings. Job prospects should be best for those with certification and experience in decorative finishes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers in 2025?
The national median salary is $57,020 per year, with the top 10% earning over $85,480. Mean hourly wage is about $27.
How long does it take to become a Cement Mason or Concrete Finisher?
Most apprenticeships last 3 to 4 years. You can also learn on the job as a helper, which may take a few years to reach full proficiency.
Is there job growth for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers?
Growth is slow at 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, but about 14,300 openings per year are expected due to worker turnover.
Which states pay Cement Masons the most?
Hawaii ($95,890), Alaska ($92,960), Illinois ($78,170), Washington ($77,520), and Oregon ($68,530) top the list.
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 Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers data.