Across U.S. metros, brickmasons typically earn $4,130 more a year than plasterers (7%). In the 42 metros where BLS publishes both, brickmasons earn more in 30 and plasterers in 12.
| Brickmason | Plasterer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $62,950 | $58,820 |
| Lowest metro median | $43,910 | $37,130 |
| Highest metro median | $97,960 | $120,180 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.1% | +2.8% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 4,100 | 1,500 |
| Self-employed | 18% | 17% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | No formal educational credential |
| Typical training | Apprenticeship | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 131 | 157 |
| Metros with pay data | 150 | 58 |
On safety, plasterers report more injuries that cause missed work (157 vs. 131 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where brickmasons out-earn plasterers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where plasterers out-earn brickmasons the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Brickmason
Lay and bind building materials, such as brick, structural tile, concrete block, cinder block, glass block, and terra-cotta block, with mortar and other substances, to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, sewers, and other structures.
Plasterer
Apply interior or exterior plaster, cement, stucco, or similar materials. May also set ornamental plaster.
Compare one trade across two cities →