Construction Laborer Salary in the United States
Based on 1.1M+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$49,295
$23.7/hr
▲ 2.7% vs 2024Salary Range
$44K – $96K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
1.1M
workers nationwide
Construction Laborer salary in the United States averages $48,020 per year, reflecting the earnings of approximately 1.06 million workers in this essential field. The salary range spans from $37,440 to $96,450 annually, demonstrating significant variation across different positions and regions. This middle-ground compensation reflects the physical demands and skill requirements of construction labor work.
Several factors influence Construction Laborer salary outcomes, including geographic location, experience level, and type of construction specialization. Workers in high-cost metropolitan areas typically earn more than those in rural regions. Additionally, specialized skills, union membership, and employment with larger contractors often result in higher wages, while entry-level positions and seasonal work may fall toward the lower end of the salary spectrum.
Salary Distribution — Construction Laborer
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $43,990 |
| 25th percentile | $52,270 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,295 |
| 75th percentile | $87,750 |
| 90th percentile | $96,490 |
Construction Laborer Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Construction Laborer
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | $77,110 | +56.4% | 5K |
| 2 | New Jersey | $64,060 | +30.0% | 24K |
| 3 | Massachusetts | $63,390 | +28.6% | 16K |
| 4 | Illinois | $60,690 | +23.1% | 36K |
| 5 | California | $60,270 | +22.3% | 88K |
| 6 | Minnesota | $60,260 | +22.2% | 29K |
| 7 | Connecticut | $58,290 | +18.2% | 7K |
| 8 | Alaska | $58,060 | +17.8% | 4K |
| 9 | Washington | $57,720 | +17.1% | 25K |
| 10 | Rhode Island | $57,240 | +16.1% | 2K |
Historical Salary Trend — Construction Laborer
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $43,155 |
| 2023 | $45,779 |
| 2024 | $48,020 |
| 2025 | $49,295 |
Construction Laborer Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do construction laborers make per hour in the United States?
- Construction laborers earn a median hourly wage of $23/hour in the United States. However, hourly rates vary significantly based on experience and location, with the annual salary range extending from $37,440 to $96,450.
What is the median salary for a construction laborer?
- The median salary for a construction laborer in the United States is $48,020 per year. This represents the middle point of the salary range, with half of workers earning more and half earning less.
Which state pays construction laborers the most?
- Hawaii offers the highest pay for construction laborers, with a top paying salary of $66,100 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $48,020, reflecting the higher cost of living in the state.
How many construction laborers are employed in the US?
- There are currently 1,057,640 construction laborers employed in the United States. This large workforce reflects the ongoing demand for labor in the construction industry across the country.