How much do flooring contractors earn? Wages, costs and taxes
US Bureau of Labor Statistics data for May 2025 show a median annual wage of $54,390 for flooring installers and tile and stone setters. These are US employees' wages, not a flooring company's annual revenue.
Experience, location and business size all affect income. Earnings may differ between newcomers and experienced contractors running larger flooring companies. In areas with strong demand or high living costs, such as New York and San Francisco, demand for skilled installation services may bring higher income, but local operating costs must also be considered.
Besides on-site labor, flooring work involves measuring, preparing materials, transport and debris removal. Material waste must also be considered. Irregularly shaped rooms, stairs and subfloor repairs can all add time, so an estimate cannot be based solely on floor area.
Calculate flooring materials, supplies, labor and other costs separately, then use the materials markup calculator to compare costs with the quote. Subtract purchasing and installation costs from business revenue. Independent contractors and small-business owners also need to consider applicable self-employment tax for Social Security and Medicare, as well as federal income tax and state and local taxes. Accounting for deductible business expenses such as tools, materials and travel helps determine a reasonable tax amount and actual take-home income.
Wage source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics: flooring installers and tile and stone setters.