Stonemasons
Masonry workers use bricks, concrete and concrete blocks, and natural and manmade stones to build structures.
Is stonemasons a good career?
It scores 10/100 and ranks #697 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- No college degree typically required to enter
Possible tradeoffs
- Employment is projected to decline (-3.0% through 2034)
What stonemasons earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. stonemasons earn between $45,450 and $71,630 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live stonemasons jobs
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- Typical education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Apprenticeship
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow slower than average through 2034.
Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enter the occupation.
Many technical schools offer programs in masonry. These programs operate both independently and in conjunction with apprenticeship training.
Training
Masons typically learn the trade through apprenticeships and on the job, working with experienced masons.
Several groups, including unions and contractor associations, sponsor apprenticeship programs. Apprentices learn construction basics, such as blueprint reading; mathematics for measurement; building code requirements; and safety and first-aid practices. After completing an apprenticeship program, masons are considered journey workers and are able to do tasks on their own.
Advancement
After becoming a journey worker, masonry workers may find opportunities to advance to supervisor, superintendent, or other construction management positions. Experienced masonry workers may choose to become independent contractors. Masonry workers in a union may also find opportunities for advancement within their union.
Important qualities
Ability to work at heights. Masonry workers often use scaffolding, so they should be comfortable working at heights.
Color vision. Masonry workers need to be able to distinguish between small variations in color when setting terrazzo patterns in order to produce the best looking finish.
Dexterity. Masonry workers must be able to place bricks, stones, and other materials with precision.
Hand–eye coordination. Masonry workers need to apply smooth, even layers of mortar; set bricks; and remove any excess before the mortar hardens.
Physical stamina. Masonry workers must keep up a steady pace while setting bricks, and the constant lifting can be tiring.
Physical strength. Masonry workers should be able to lift more than 50 pounds. They carry heavy tools, equipment, and other materials, such as bags of mortar and grout.
Related occupations
How much do stonemasons make?
The national median wage is $57,390 a year, with the middle half earning between $45,450 and $71,630 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is stonemasons a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 10 of 100 and ranks #697 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change -3.0% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a stonemason?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent.
Where do stonemasons earn the most?
Among states, Wisconsin pays the highest median ($82,740). Local pay for every state and metro is below.