How much does a Construction Estimator make?
Construction estimators play a key role in the building industry. They calculate the costs of materials, labor, and equipment needed for a project. This job requires careful planning and attention to detail. The average yearly salary for a construction estimator is around $88,689. This means that many estimators earn a good living.
The salary of a construction estimator can vary based on experience and location. Those with more experience often earn more. Here are some salary ranges for different levels of experience:
- Entry-level estimators can earn between $45,000 and $55,055 per year.
- Mid-level estimators earn between $65,109 and $85,218 per year.
- Senior estimators can earn between $95,273 and $155,600 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Construction Estimator?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $139,882
In Los Angeles, professionals in this role analyze project costs and prepare budgets. They work with major firms like AECOM and Clark Construction. The city's diverse projects offer many opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $122,015
San Jose, a tech hub, sees estimators working on innovative projects. Companies like Bechtel and DPR Construction are prominent. The city's growth provides a dynamic work environment.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $110,793
Boston offers a rich history and modern projects. Estimators here collaborate with firms like The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company. The city's blend of old and new creates unique challenges.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $110,145
In San Francisco, estimators navigate a high-cost environment. They work with companies like Clark Construction Group and Swinerton. The city's skyline projects are both exciting and demanding.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $109,067
Chicago's diverse projects make this role exciting. Estimators here partner with firms like Turner Construction and Skanska. The city's architecture offers a variety of challenges.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $107,931
Visalia provides a smaller-city feel with big projects. Estimators work with local firms like Valley Oak Construction. The community atmosphere makes for a supportive work environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $105,613
Seattle's tech industry drives demand for skilled estimators. Companies like Hoffman Construction and Gilbane Building Company are prominent. The city's innovative projects are both challenging and rewarding.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $104,182
In Washington, DC, estimators work on government and high-profile projects. Firms like Clark Construction Group and AECOM are active. The city's historic and modern projects offer diverse experiences.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $103,125
Minneapolis offers a mix of urban and suburban projects. Estimators work with companies like Mortenson Construction and Lunda Construction. The city's diverse landscape provides varied opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $103,036
Sacramento provides a balanced environment with both urban and rural projects. Estimators here collaborate with firms like Clark Construction Group and Swinerton. The city's growth offers many career prospects.
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What are the best companies a Construction Estimator can work for?

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Arcadis
Average Salary: $147,115
Arcadis offers Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on sustainable design and engineering. They operate globally, with major offices in Europe, North America, and Asia.
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Luster National
Average Salary: $132,792
Luster National provides Construction Estimator jobs with a strong emphasis on infrastructure projects. They have offices in the United States and Canada.
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Turner & Townsend Pty Limited
Average Salary: $129,167
Turner & Townsend Pty Limited offers Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on project management and cost consulting. They operate in multiple countries, including the UK, Australia, and the Middle East.
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Michael Page
Average Salary: $128,125
Michael Page provides Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on recruitment and staffing. They have offices worldwide, including in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
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Engtal
Average Salary: $124,706
Engtal offers Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on engineering and construction services. They have offices in the United States and Canada.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $110,000
GEI Consultants provides Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on cost estimating and project management. They operate in the United States and Canada.
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gpac
Average Salary: $108,854
gpac offers Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on recruitment and staffing. They have offices in the United States and Canada.
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Parametrix, Inc.
Average Salary: $107,500
Parametrix, Inc. provides Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on engineering and construction services. They operate in the United States.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $106,929
CyberCoders offers Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on recruitment and staffing. They have offices in the United States and Canada.
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Insight Global
Average Salary: $101,286
Insight Global provides Construction Estimator jobs with a focus on recruitment and staffing. They operate in the United States.
How to earn more as a Construction Estimator?
To earn more as a Construction Estimator, focus on enhancing skills and gaining experience. This profession requires a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of construction costs. By improving these areas, estimators can increase their value to employers and command higher salaries.
Consider the following factors to boost earnings:
- Education and Certification: Pursue higher education in construction management or related fields. Certifications from recognized bodies can also set an estimator apart.
- Experience: Gain experience in various types of construction projects. Each project adds to an estimator's knowledge and ability to handle complex tasks.
- Specialization: Specializing in areas like residential, commercial, or industrial construction can make an estimator more valuable. Specialization often leads to higher-paying opportunities.
- Software Proficiency: Master the use of construction estimating software. Proficiency in these tools can increase efficiency and accuracy, leading to better job performance.
- Networking: Build a strong professional network. Connections can lead to job opportunities and insights into higher-paying roles.



