According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly income for construction workers in 2012 was just over $29,000. Half of the workers earned less, while half earned more. The U.S. News and World Report reported the average annual salary for construction workers during that year was $34,490.Continue Reading
The best-paid construction workers earned over $55,750, while the bottom 10 percent made under $18,840. During 2012, apprentices were paid between 30 and 60 percent of what experienced workers made. Most construction workers have full-time jobs, but bad weather and deadlines sometimes affect their hours and overtime is necessary.
Construction workers who specialize often have the highest earnings. For example, compared to general construction laborers, carpenters earned $10,000 more, while iron and steel workers bring in $16,000 more.
Overall, the highest paying jobs for construction workers are most numerous in New England, including Framingham, Brockton and Boston, Massachusetts. However, New York City and Honolulu workers are also at the high end of the pay scale.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that in the decade following 2012, the need for construction workers is going to grow 24 percent, which is much faster growth compared to other professions. A great deal of work is going to be done on America's infrastructure, so workers will be needed to build roads, bridges and water lines.Learn more about Salaries