Tile and Stone Setter Salary 2025: $55,690 Median, 10% Growth
Tile and stone setters earned a median $55,690 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $27 per hour. The top 10% of setters made over $86,110, while the bottom 10% earned below $37,140. With 35,850 jobs nationwide and a projected growth rate of 10.1% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average occupation — this trade offers solid income potential and steady demand.
How much Tile and Stone Setters earn
The median annual wage for tile and stone setters is $55,690. The mean wage is $59,250, or about $27 per hour. Most setters earn between $37,140 and $86,110, but pay varies widely by experience, location, and specialization.
Entry-level positions typically pay near the 10th percentile, while experienced setters with advanced skills or certifications can reach the top of the range. Union membership or working on high-end commercial projects can also boost earnings.
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. Massachusetts pays tile and stone setters the most, with an average annual wage of $81,150. Hawaii ($79,270), Washington ($77,920), Maine ($70,720), and Minnesota ($70,560) round out the top five.
On the lower end, North Dakota ($42,620), Mississippi ($39,130), and Arkansas ($38,980) pay well below the national median. Keep in mind that cost of living also varies — high-wage states often have higher housing costs.
How to become a Tile and Stone Setter
Most tile and stone setters learn through a three- to four-year apprenticeship sponsored by a union or contractor association. Apprentices complete on-the-job training and classroom instruction in blueprint reading, cutting techniques, and safety.
Some enter the trade by working as helpers and picking up skills from experienced setters. High school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Certifications like the NTCA's Certified Tile Installer program can boost credibility and pay.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply to a union apprenticeship (e.g., BAC, Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers) or find a contractor offering on-the-job training.
- Optionally earn voluntary certification from the National Tile Contractors Association.
- For stone setting, consider specialized training in stone fabrication and installation.
Job outlook
Employment of tile and stone setters is projected to grow 10.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 4,200 openings each year over the decade, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the trade.
Demand is driven by new construction and remodeling in both residential and commercial sectors. Workers who are skilled in natural stone installation or who can work with modern tile materials like porcelain and large-format tiles will have the best opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for tile and stone setters?
Massachusetts pays the most at $81,150 on average, followed by Hawaii ($79,270) and Washington ($77,920).
How long does it take to become a tile setter?
Most apprenticeships last three to four years. Some workers learn on the job as helpers, which can take several years to reach journey-level status.
What is the job growth rate for tile and stone setters?
The BLS projects 10.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 4,200 openings per year.
Do tile and stone setters need a license?
Licensing requirements vary by state and locality. Some areas require a contractor's license for independent work. Check with your state's licensing board.
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 Tile and Stone Setters data.