Concrete finishers usually are paid at the prevailing wage in their area, which differs around the country. Chicago area decorative finishers are paid up to $50 per hour, while in Alabama they earn about $23 an hour and in Southern California about $30. Beginning concrete finishers in Alabama earn $12 per hour, while in Southern California they start between $10 and $15. Chicago, again, is higher, with beginning finishers paid closer to $25 per hour.