Paperhangers vs. Construction Laborers: Who Earns More?
Paperhangers out-earn Construction Laborers by $5K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Paperhangers land at $52,140 and Construction Laborers at $47,120. The education gap is real: paperhanger programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while construction laborer programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Paperhangers is California ($62,790); for Construction Laborers it's Hawaii ($77,110).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Paperhangers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Paperhangers or Construction Laborers?
Paperhangers earn more nationally. The median is $52,140 for Paperhangers versus $47,120 for Construction Laborers, a difference of $5K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Paperhangers or Construction Laborers?
Construction Laborers has the better 10-year outlook at 7.3% projected growth, compared to 5.3% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Paperhangers or Construction Laborers?
Paperhangers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Construction Laborers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Paperhangers get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Paperhangers at $62,790/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Paperhangers vs. Construction Laborers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Paperhangers earn $62,790 vs. $60,270 for Construction Laborers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.