How much does a Construction Estimator make?
Construction estimators play a key role in ensuring that construction projects run smoothly and within budget. They calculate costs, prepare budgets, and estimate time for project completion. On average, a construction estimator earns about $87,542 each year. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the projects they handle.
To break it down further, here are the average salaries at different experience levels:
- 10th percentile: $42,053
- 25th percentile: $51,939
- 50th percentile: $81,598
- 75th percentile: $111,256
- 90th percentile: $131,028
What are the highest paying cities for a Construction Estimator?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $145,995
In Los Angeles, professionals enjoy the fast-paced nature of the construction industry. Key employers include ABC Construction and XYZ Development. They offer dynamic projects that require accurate cost estimation.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $136,883
San Francisco stands out for its robust tech and real estate sectors. Companies like Google and Salesforce frequently hire estimators for large-scale projects. The city offers diverse opportunities in a competitive market.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $128,727
San Jose provides a thriving environment with tech giants such as Apple and Intel. These companies often need skilled estimators to manage project budgets effectively. The tech-centric culture offers numerous learning opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $122,375
Boston offers a blend of historic charm and modern development. Major firms like General Dynamics and BAE Systems look for estimators to handle their construction projects. The city's educational institutions also create steady demand.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $117,402
Seattle boasts a strong construction scene driven by tech and maritime industries. Companies like Amazon and Boeing seek estimators to manage project costs. The city's dynamic projects keep professionals engaged.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $109,092
Chicago is known for its iconic skyline and major construction projects. Firms such as Turner Construction and Bechtel employ estimators to ensure budget accuracy. The city's diverse projects provide extensive experience.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $105,873
Washington, DC, offers a unique mix of government and private sector projects. Key employers include AECOM and Parsons. Estimators in DC work on significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the nation's capital.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $105,336
Minneapolis provides a stable market with a focus on residential and commercial projects. Companies like Mortenson and Ryan Companies hire estimators to manage budgets effectively. The city's collaborative environment fosters professional growth.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $104,921
Salt Lake City offers a growing construction market with a focus on residential and commercial development. Firms like Salt Lake City Construction and Layton Construction hire estimators for their diverse projects. The city's expanding economy provides ample opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $104,475
Sacramento features a vibrant construction industry with opportunities in government and private sectors. Key employers include URS Corporation and AECOM. Professionals here find a balance between project variety and career growth.
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What are the best companies a Construction Estimator can work for?

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Turner & Townsend Pty Limited
Average Salary: $135,938
Turner & Townsend Pty Limited is a leading global project management consultancy. They offer Construction Estimator jobs across the United States, with a strong presence in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago. Estimators at this company work on diverse projects, ensuring cost-effective planning and execution.
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Luster National
Average Salary: $134,667
Luster National, a prominent construction management firm, provides Construction Estimator roles across the U.S. Their headquarters is in Chicago, with additional offices in Los Angeles and Denver. Estimators here collaborate closely with project managers, helping to deliver projects on time and within budget.
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McMillen, Inc.
Average Salary: $133,654
McMillen, Inc. is a full-service civil engineering firm that offers rewarding Construction Estimator positions. They operate in major cities like Seattle, Portland, and Las Vegas. Their estimators are involved in various civil engineering projects, from infrastructure to commercial developments.
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TEEMA
Average Salary: $128,750
TEEMA is a key player in the engineering sector, offering Construction Estimator jobs in locations such as Washington D.C., Atlanta, and San Diego. Estimators at TEEMA work on critical infrastructure projects, ensuring accurate cost estimates and project success.
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Michael Page
Average Salary: $128,390
Michael Page, a global recruitment consultancy, provides Construction Estimator opportunities in major hubs like Houston, Dallas, and Miami. Estimators here support a wide range of industries, offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities.
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Crawford Consulting Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $120,000
Crawford Consulting Services, Inc. offers Construction Estimator jobs in key markets like Boston, Philadelphia, and Austin. They focus on infrastructure and commercial construction, providing estimators with diverse and challenging projects.
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Strobel Energy Group LLC
Average Salary: $116,308
Strobel Energy Group LLC, an energy infrastructure company, offers Construction Estimator positions in areas such as Denver, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City. Estimators here specialize in energy-related projects, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in cost estimation.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $113,369
AECOM, a global engineering and design firm, offers Construction Estimator roles in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. Their estimators work on a variety of projects, from urban development to transportation infrastructure.
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LeoForce
Average Salary: $111,333
LeoForce provides Construction Estimator jobs in key locations including Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Richmond. They offer opportunities in commercial and industrial construction, with a focus on delivering quality results.
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GEI Consultants
Average Salary: $110,000
GEI Consultants, a multidisciplinary consulting firm, offers Construction Estimator positions in Chicago, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. Estimators at GEI Consultants play a vital role in planning and executing diverse construction projects.
How to earn more as a Construction Estimator?
Earning more as a Construction Estimator involves leveraging your skills and experience effectively. Building a strong foundation in the industry helps increase your value. Networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Staying updated with the latest construction trends and technologies is crucial for better performance and earning potential.
Below are some key factors to consider for increasing your earnings in this role:
- Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Work on diverse projects to build a broad skill set.
- Specialize: Focus on a niche, such as commercial or residential construction. Specialization can command higher salaries.
- Pursue Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Construction Estimator (CCE) enhance credibility and marketability.
- Improve Skills: Keep your skills sharp by taking courses in cost estimation, project management, and software tools.
- Seek Promotions: Aim for leadership roles within your company, which typically offer higher compensation.



