How much does a Construction Estimator make?
The role of a Construction Estimator is both rewarding and financially attractive. These professionals typically earn a solid annual salary, with figures reflecting their experience and expertise. The average yearly salary for a Construction Estimator stands at $88,461. This number can vary based on several factors, including the size of the projects, the complexity of the tasks, and the location of the job.
A breakdown of the salary distribution shows a wide range of earnings. At the lower end, those in the 10th percentile earn $45,000. This amount increases with experience, reaching a median salary of $85,909. The highest-paid estimators, who fall into the 90th percentile, earn up to $147,273 annually. This diversity in earnings highlights the potential for significant growth in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Construction Estimator?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $142,632
In Los Angeles, professionals thrive in a dynamic construction market. Large-scale projects often need careful budgeting. Companies like AECOM and Clark Construction offer great opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $125,019
San Jose features a strong tech-driven construction sector. High demand for skilled estimators is common. Firms such as Bechtel and AECOM provide promising careers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $116,619
Boston's historic charm meets modern construction needs. Estimators play a key role in balancing tradition and innovation. Companies like Turner and Bechtel are prominent here.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $116,389
San Francisco offers a competitive environment for construction estimators. The city's skyline development requires precise cost analysis. Firms such as Clark Construction and AECOM are leaders in the field.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $111,365
Chicago boasts a diverse construction scene. Estimators are crucial in managing large-scale projects. Companies like Turner and AECOM provide excellent opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $109,968
Seattle's booming construction industry seeks skilled estimators. The city's growth demands accurate budgeting and planning. Firms like Clark Construction and AECOM are active in the market.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $106,631
In Washington, DC, estimators help manage federal projects. The city’s construction scene is rich with opportunities. Companies such as Bechtel and AECOM are notable employers.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $105,453
Sacramento offers a stable construction environment. Estimators support both public and private projects. Firms like Clark Construction and AECOM provide diverse career paths.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $104,684
Minneapolis features a growing construction industry. Estimators are key in managing costs for various projects. Companies such as Turner and AECOM offer good career opportunities.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $102,998
Denver’s construction market is expanding. Estimators are vital in balancing budgets and timelines. Firms like Bechtel and AECOM provide promising career paths.
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What are the best companies a Construction Estimator can work for?

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Arcadis
Average Salary: $150,000
Arcadis offers Construction Estimator jobs with a strong focus on sustainable development. They operate in various locations, including Europe, North America, and Asia. Arcadis provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
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Luster National
Average Salary: $136,069
Luster National is known for its commitment to quality and innovation. They seek skilled Construction Estimators to join their team in the United States. Their projects span from commercial to industrial sectors, providing diverse experiences.
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McMillen, Inc.
Average Salary: $132,500
McMillen, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Construction Estimators. They operate mainly in the Midwest and West Coast of the USA. The company values teamwork and professional development.
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Turner & Townsend Pty Limited
Average Salary: $129,500
Turner & Townsend Pty Limited provides Construction Estimator jobs with extensive opportunities for international assignments. They work in multiple countries, including the UK, UAE, and Australia. Their culture emphasizes collaboration and innovation.
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Michael Page
Average Salary: $126,667
Michael Page specializes in placing Construction Estimators in top companies. They operate globally, with a strong presence in Europe and Asia. The company focuses on career growth and offers various benefits.
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Crawford Consulting Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $120,000
Crawford Consulting Services, Inc. offers Construction Estimator positions with a focus on project management. They are based in the United States and work on large infrastructure projects. Their team-oriented approach enhances professional development.
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Strobel Energy Group LLC
Average Salary: $116,308
Strobel Energy Group LLC provides Construction Estimator jobs in the energy sector. They operate across the United States. The company offers a stable work environment and opportunities for advancement.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $113,150
AECOM is a global leader in consulting and construction. They offer Construction Estimator jobs in various countries. AECOM focuses on sustainability and innovation, providing a dynamic work environment.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $112,134
CyberCoders connects Construction Estimators with leading companies. They operate across the United States and offer various opportunities in different sectors. Their network helps in finding the best job matches.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $110,000
GEI Consultants offers Construction Estimator positions with a focus on infrastructure projects. They operate mainly in the United States. The company values teamwork and professional growth.
How to earn more as a Construction Estimator?
In the field of construction, a skilled estimator holds a key role, making it essential to learn ways to increase earnings. A construction estimator calculates the costs of materials, labor, and equipment needed for projects. The right approach can lead to higher pay.
Here are some factors that can help increase earnings:
- Get More Experience: Gaining experience improves skills and knowledge. This leads to better estimates and a higher earning potential.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Certifications from recognized organizations can make a resume stand out. They show commitment to the field and mastery of key skills.
- Master Advanced Software: Familiarity with advanced estimating software can increase efficiency and accuracy. This skill can attract higher-paying jobs.
- Specialize in a Niche: Focusing on a specific area like commercial, residential, or green building can make a candidate more valuable. Specialization often leads to higher pay.
- Network with Industry Professionals: Building relationships with peers and hiring managers can open doors to better job opportunities. Networking can also lead to tips on increasing earnings.



