Across U.S. metros, plasterers typically earn $8,325 more a year than tile setters (16%). In the 50 metros where BLS publishes both, plasterers earn more in 33 and tile setters in 17.
| Plasterer | Tile Setter | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $58,820 | $50,495 |
| Lowest metro median | $37,130 | $34,970 |
| Highest metro median | $120,180 | $88,730 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +2.8% | +9.8% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 1,500 | 3,300 |
| Self-employed | 17% | 21% |
| Typical education | No formal educational credential | No formal educational credential |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 157 | 138 |
| Metros with pay data | 58 | 120 |
On safety, plasterers report more injuries that cause missed work (157 vs. 138 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 plasterers out-earn tile setters the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where tile setters out-earn plasterers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Plasterer
Apply interior or exterior plaster, cement, stucco, or similar materials. May also set ornamental plaster.
Tile Setter
Apply hard tile, stone, and comparable materials to walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and roof decks.
Compare one trade across two cities →