Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall: Salary Guide 2025
The median salary for Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall is $49,120 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range runs from $37,030 at the 10th percentile to $78,190 at the 90th. That works out to roughly $24 an hour at the mean.
How much Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall earn
Nationally, the median annual wage is $49,120. The lowest-earning 10 percent make $37,030 or less, while the top 10 percent earn above $78,190. The mean hourly wage is about $24.
Pay varies by experience, location, and industry. Commercial and industrial insulation jobs tend to pay more than residential work. Union membership can also boost wages.
- Median: $49,120
- 10th percentile: $37,030
- 90th percentile: $78,190
- Mean hourly: $24
Pay by state
Nebraska tops the list at $73,140 annually, followed by Washington ($67,750), Mississippi ($62,880), Oregon ($60,210), and New York ($59,100). At the other end, West Virginia pays $35,390, Utah $40,080, and Idaho $41,550. Location clearly matters.
How to become Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Most insulation workers learn on the job, starting as helpers. Typical entry requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Apprenticeships, often sponsored by unions or contractor associations, combine paid work with classroom instruction—usually lasting 2 to 4 years. Some states require a license for certain types of insulation work, especially for handling asbestos or spray foam. Certifications like the Building Performance Institute's (BPI) or the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA) can improve job prospects. Physical fitness and comfort with ladders, crawl spaces, and basic math help.
- High school diploma or GED required
- On-the-job training or apprenticeship (2–4 years)
- Some states require licensing for specific materials
- Optional certifications from BPI or ICAA
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 3.8 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That's roughly 3,400 openings each year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. Current employment sits at 44,440. Energy-efficiency retrofits and new construction demand will drive this growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall?
The national median salary is $49,120, with a typical range of $37,030 to $78,190. Top-paying states include Nebraska ($73,140) and Washington ($67,750).
How do you become an Insulation Worker?
Typically you need a high school diploma and on-the-job training or a 2- to 4-year apprenticeship. Some states require licensing for handling certain materials like asbestos.
What is the job growth for Insulation Workers?
The BLS projects 3.8% growth from 2024 to 2034, about average, creating about 3,400 job openings annually.
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 Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall data.