Let’s say you need to lay a strong brick wall or repair that old chimney that’s been gradually deteriorating. Who do you call? A masonry contractor, of course!
Masonry is defined as the art of building with brick, stone, or concrete block. It’s like a big puzzle, but one that could keep your house standing up for years! 🧱
At AKT Construction NY Inc., we’ve done various masonry jobs throughout New York, some are large, some small, and everything in between. We know that every potential client usually asks, “What is going to cost me?”
So, we decided to create a simple masonry pricing guide for 2025 to help you better understand the masonry contractor’s hourly rate and what determines these costs.
Now, 2025 is showing us that many things are beginning to change. The price for materials, labor, and permits is constantly changing, and that makes understanding how masonry pricing works even more important.
So, whether you’re repairing a small crack or building something brand new, knowing the masonry contractor’s hourly rate and masonry service costs could help save you time, money, and inevitable headaches.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What affects a masonry contractor’s hourly rate
- What prices can you expect in 2025
- Hidden or extra costs you should know about
- And smart tips to help you save along the way
So grab a coffee — or a hard hat — and let’s dig into it!
Factors That Influence Masonry Contractor Hourly Rates
A lot of little things can change how much a masonry contractor charges. From the type of job to where you live and how experienced your contractor is, each part plays a role in what you’ll pay.
1. Type of Masonry Work
Not all masonry jobs are the same. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Bricklaying – Common for building walls, patios, and walkways.
Brick masonry cost usually starts on the lower end of the price range. - Stonework – It looks fancy and lasts long, but it’s heavier and more challenging to work with. That makes the stone masonry pricing a bit higher.
- Concrete block work – Great for strong foundations and walls.
If you’re doing block wall installation, expect medium to high rates. - Decorative masonry – Think custom designs, arches, or stone veneers.
Fancy = more time = higher cost.
2. Geographic Location
Where you live makes a big difference.
- In busy cities like New York, labor costs are usually higher because everything — from permits to parking — costs more.
- In rural areas, prices may be lower, but there may be fewer contractors to choose from.
This is what we mean by masonry cost by location or regional masonry rates.
3. Experience and Certification
A master mason with years of experience and official licenses (like us at AKT Construction NY Inc.) might charge more per hour, but the work is top-quality, safe, and long-lasting.
An apprentice or someone without proper insurance might charge less, but you may end up paying more later to fix mistakes.
Certified mason rates are usually worth the investment for peace of mind.
4. Job Complexity and Scope
Let’s say you just want a few bricks replaced — that’s a simple, quick job.
But if we’re building a big wall in a tight space or doing custom stonework, the complex masonry project cost goes up. More time and tools mean more money.
Average Hourly Rates for Masonry Contractors in 2025
If you are planning a home improvement or repair project this year, it is wise to know the masonry contractor’s hourly rate in 2025 to get a fair estimate. Prices for masonry work, like everything else, have fluctuated with changes in material prices, labor availability, and local demand, so understanding what is a reasonable price is paramount.
Whether you are building a brick wall, repairing a chimney, or enhancing your outdoor space with stonework, understanding how the pricing of masonry labor works will help you in the budgeting process.
National Average Cost
In 2025, the hourly costs for masonry labor are likely to fall somewhere between $50 and $120 per hour. The large price variation reflects many factors, some of which can be ignored, while others are important: the type of work being done, the materials being used, the ease of the job, and potentially your location.
A plain bricklaying job in a suburb may set you closer to the lower end of the pricing, while custom stone wall installation in a busy city may set you closer to the high end of the pricing.
At AKT Construction NY Inc., we believe in giving our clients fair, honest, and competitive pricing. Our rates reflect the quality of our craftsmanship, our years of hands-on experience, and our commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. We never cut corners — every project is completed with precision, whether it’s a small repair or a full-scale build.
Cost Breakdown by Project Type
Not all masonry projects are priced the same. Some jobs are quick and simple, while others take time, tools, and specialized skills. Here’s a closer look at the typical hourly masonry rates by project type in 2025:
- Brick Wall Installation: $60–$100/hour
Brick walls are common in residential and commercial properties. Costs vary based on wall height, length, and whether decorative patterns are involved. - Chimney Repairs: $70–$120/hour
Chimneys often need careful work at high elevations, especially if bricks are deteriorating or mortar needs replacement. Tall or hard-to-access chimneys may cost more. - Retaining Walls: $80–$130/hour
These walls hold back soil and must be built strong and level. Retaining walls often involve more planning, drainage considerations, and heavy materials. - Tuckpointing: $65–$110/hour
This detailed process involves removing and replacing old mortar between bricks. It’s common for older homes and historical buildings where preserving the original look is important.
Every job has its challenges and job specifications, which is why we always advise that you get a personalized estimate at AKT Construction NY Inc. It’s our job to ask questions and fully understand your project, so we can provide an accurate free quote with no surprises.
Knowing those averages can help steer you clear of overpaying or underpricing. If you get a quote that is incredibly outside of the norm, be sure to ask about what’s included and what should cause that price to escalate. Most importantly, being the cheapest selection does not always yield the best outcome, especially when it relates to the structure of your home.
If you reside in New York and are looking for trustworthy, competent masonry contractors, AKT Construction NY Inc. is here as an option, with proper pricing, great quality, and contractors who will treat your property like it is their own.
Additional Costs to Know
Aside from hourly labour, some additional costs may be present on your final invoice. These may include supplies, permits, special tools, or even clean-up and disposal.
1. Materials and Supplies
Sometimes the contractor brings everything (like bricks, mortar, or stone), and other times the homeowner provides materials.
- If we supply materials to AKT Construction NY Inc., we always give clear breakdowns and brick-and-mortar pricing so there are no surprises.
2. Permits and Inspection Fees
In most areas, big masonry jobs need a building permit.
- These can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on your location and the size of the job.
- We help our clients handle this paperwork smoothly.
3. Equipment and Disposal
Need scaffolding to reach high places? A mixer for concrete? These tools can come with rental fees. Plus, when the job’s done, there’s often debris to haul away.
These are masonry job hidden costs people sometimes forget about, but we always explain them up front.
Tips to Save on Masonry Labor Costs
Hiring a mason doesn’t have to break the bank. You can lower your total cost by being smart about when you book, combining small jobs into one visit, or even doing a bit of the prep work yourself. At AKT Construction NY Inc., we’re always happy to help our clients find ways to save without sacrificing quality.
Want to spend smart? Here are a few ideas:
- Book during off-seasons – Spring and fall are busy, but winter jobs might be cheaper if the weather allows.
- Bundle jobs together – Fix that patio and chimney at the same time to save on setup costs.
- DIY the prep – Clearing the work area ahead of time can save labor hours.
At AKT Construction NY Inc., we love helping our customers find affordable masonry services without cutting corners.
Read More: 10 Tips on How to Find a Masonry Contractor You Can Trust
Conclusion
Figuring out how much a masonry contractor charges per hour in 2025 doesn’t have to be confusing. With average rates between $50 and $120 an hour, the final cost really depends on the type of work, location, and experience of the contractor. But more than just the numbers, it’s about hiring someone you trust to do the job right.
At AKT Construction NY Inc., we’ve built a reputation across New York for high-quality masonry work, honest pricing, and friendly service. Whether you need a quick repair or a custom stone project, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — and build something that lasts for years to come.