Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers Salary in San Diego, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA

Median annual salary $69,930 +20.3% vs national
Median hourly $33.62
10th percentile $47,810
90th percentile $117,940
Employed locally 3,100
National median $58,140

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Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
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    In San Diego, CA, drywall and ceiling tile installers earn a median annual salary of $69,930, which is notably higher than the national median of $58,140 for this occupation. This suggests that workers in this field are compensated more generously in San Diego compared to other parts of the United States. When compared to the local area's median household income of $102,285, the earnings of these installers represent approximately 68% of the average household income. This indicates that while they earn a respectable salary relative to their peers nationally, they still fall short of reaching the typical household income in San Diego.

    For entry-level drywall and ceiling tile installers in San Diego, salaries start at around $47,810 (10th percentile), reflecting the initial phase of career development where workers are gaining experience. As these professionals gain more experience and possibly take on supervisory or specialized roles, their earnings can increase significantly to $91,620 (75th percentile) and even up to $117,940 (90th percentile). The salary progression is driven by factors such as increased expertise, demand for skilled labor in a competitive local market with a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.30%, and the acquisition of advanced skills or certifications that enhance job performance and efficiency. This tiered earning structure underscores the value placed on experience and skill development within this trade in San Diego.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $47,810
    25th
    $58,130
    50th (median)
    $69,930
    75th
    $91,620
    90th
    $117,940

    San Diego economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,285 2023 • Census ACS
    Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers salary vs area income 68% Median Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers salary is 32% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers make per hour in San Diego?

    The median hourly wage for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers in San Diego, CA is $33.62, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $54.86 or more per hour.

    Is San Diego above or below average for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers salaries?

    The median Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers salary in San Diego, CA is 20.3% above the national median of $58,140. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers in San Diego?

    Entry-level Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers (10th percentile) earn around $47,810 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $58,130.