Tapers Salary Guide 2025: Median $68,270, Top $107K+
Tapers earned a median salary of $68,270 in May 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $33 per hour, with the top 10% pulling in $107,110 or more and the bottom 10% making $43,670. With only 12,840 Tapers employed nationwide, it's a small trade but a well-paying one in many states.
How much Tapers earn
The average (mean) hourly wage for Tapers is $34.96, equal to an annual mean of $72,710. The typical pay range runs from $43,670 at the 10th percentile to $107,110 at the 90th percentile. Experience, location, and union membership can push pay higher or lower. Most Tapers work in finishing trades for drywall installation, and earnings often reflect regional construction demand.
Pay by state
Where you work as a Taper matters a lot. The highest-paying state is Illinois, with an average salary of $113,180 — over $40K above the national mean. Hawaii comes second at $95,490, followed by Pennsylvania ($82,240), Washington ($79,040), and Minnesota ($78,090). On the low end, West Virginia Tapers average $41,600, Texas $43,670, and Indiana $42,810. Cost of living is a factor, but the gap between Illinois and West Virginia is more than 2.7x.
How to become Taper
Most Tapers learn through a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship sponsored by unions or contractor associations. You typically need a high school diploma or GED. On-the-job training is the core: you'll learn taping, bedding, sanding, and texturing drywall joints. Some states require a contractor license for independent work, but not for employees. The trade also demands physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math for measuring. No college degree needed.
Job outlook
Employment for Tapers is projected to grow only 0.1% from 2024 to 2034 — slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,100 openings per year, most from workers retiring or leaving the trade. New construction and remodeling will provide some demand, but automation (like drywall finishing tools) and productivity gains limit job growth. It's a stable niche, not a booming one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Taper in 2025?
The median annual salary is $68,270, with a mean of $72,710. The bottom 10% earn $43,670, and the top 10% earn $107,110.
How do I become a Taper?
Complete a 3- to 4-year apprenticeship that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. A high school diploma is usually required. No college is necessary.
Is Taper a growing career?
No, job growth is projected at 0.1% from 2024-2034, slower than average. About 1,100 openings per year are expected, mostly due to turnover.
Which state pays Tapers the most?
Illinois pays the highest average at $113,180. Hawaii ($95,490) and Pennsylvania ($82,240) follow.
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 Tapers data.