Cost estimators Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Cost estimators in the United States is $78,740 per year — about $38 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $61,150 and $101,850 a year.
Salary range
Top US metros for Cost estimators
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| Amherst Town-Northampton, MA | $100,410 |
| Paducah, KY-IL | $82,610 |
| Pittsfield, MA | $88,080 |
| Dubuque, IA | $82,940 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH | $102,640 |
| Baton Rouge, LA | $84,710 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | $89,540 |
| Norwich-New London-Willimantic, CT | $92,600 |
| Casper, WY | $84,990 |
| Cheyenne, WY | $83,870 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Cost estimators make in the US?
The median salary is $78,740 per year (about $38 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $61,150 and $101,850 a year.
How much do Cost estimators make per hour?
About $38 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $78,740 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Cost estimators?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
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