Plasterers and Stucco Masons Salary Guide 2025: $57,660 Median, +4.1% Growth
The median plasterer and stucco mason in the U.S. earns $57,660 per year, or about $28 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's for the roughly 19,310 workers in the trade. The top 10% of earners make more than $96,710, while entry-level workers start around $39,560.
How much Plasterers and Stucco Masons earn
The BLS's May 2023 OEWS data shows a mean annual wage of $62,050, with a median of $57,660. Typical pay ranges from $39,560 at the 10th percentile to $96,710 at the 90th. Overtime, project bonuses, and self-employment can push earnings higher for experienced workers.
National averages hide big differences. The highest paid 10% make more than double what the lowest 10% earn. Pay depends on skill level, specialization (ornamental vs. flat work), and local demand.
- Median annual salary: $57,660
- Mean annual salary: $62,050
- Hourly mean wage: ≈$28
- 10th percentile: $39,560
- 90th percentile: $96,710
Pay by state
State-level pay varies dramatically. New York tops the list at $120,180 mean annual wage, followed by Hawaii ($104,260), Minnesota ($102,530), Illinois ($93,790), and New Hampshire ($93,000). At the other end, Florida averages $47,420, Montana $46,540, and New Mexico $45,350.
Cost of living partly explains the spread, but strong union presence and local building codes also drive rates up in the Northeast and Upper Midwest.
- Highest-paying: New York ($120,180), Hawaii ($104,260), Minnesota ($102,530), Illinois ($93,790), New Hampshire ($93,000)
- Lowest-paying: Florida ($47,420), Montana ($46,540), New Mexico ($45,350)
How to become a Plasterers and Stucco Mason
Most plasterers and stucco masons learn through a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship sponsored by unions or contractor associations. Apprentices earn a percentage of journeyman wages while learning on the job and taking related classroom instruction—typically 144 hours per year.
No formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent is required, but courses in math, blueprint reading, and construction technology help. Some community colleges offer pre-apprenticeship programs.
- Complete a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship
- No college degree needed; high school diploma or GED is typical
- Optional: pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or community college
- Obtain relevant certifications (e.g., OSHA 10-hour safety, manufacturer-specific application certifications)
- Some states require a contractor license; check your state's requirements
Job outlook
Employment of plasterers and stucco masons is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That growth is expected to create about 1,900 job openings each year over the decade, mostly from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the trade.
Demand is tied to new construction and remodeling. Green building trends and specialty finishes may create niches for skilled workers. Since the occupation is relatively small, even modest growth means steady opportunities for trained applicants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a plasterer and stucco mason in 2025?
The BLS reports a median annual salary of $57,660 and a mean of $62,050 (about $28/hour). Typical pay ranges from $39,560 at the low end to $96,710 at the high end.
How do I become a plasterer and stucco mason?
Most enter through a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. No college degree required, though trade school pre-apprenticeship programs can help.
Is plastering and stucco masonry a growing career?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average. About 1,900 job openings per year are expected due to growth and replacement needs.
Which states pay plasterers and stucco masons the most?
Highest mean wages: New York ($120,180), Hawaii ($104,260), Minnesota ($102,530), Illinois ($93,790), and New Hampshire ($93,000). Lowest: Florida ($47,420), Montana ($46,540), New Mexico ($45,350).
What is the hourly wage for plasterers and stucco masons?
The mean hourly wage is about $28. Hourly rates vary by location, experience, and whether you work union or non-union.
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 Plasterers and Stucco Masons data.