Construction Manager Salary 2025: $114,990 Median, 8.7% Growth
The median construction manager earns $114,990 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $124,360, which works out to about $55 an hour. Pay ranges from $69,690 at the 10th percentile to $189,440 at the 90th, so experience and location make a big difference. With 380,360 people employed in the role, this is a sizable occupation—and it’s projected to grow much faster than average over the next decade.
How much Construction Managers earn
The BLS reports the national median salary for construction managers at $114,990 as of May 2023. Half earn more than that, half less. The average (mean) is $124,360, or roughly $55 per hour. The bottom 10% make $69,690 or less, while the top 10% bring in over $189,440. Bonuses and profit-sharing can boost total compensation further, especially on large projects.
Pay by state
Where you work has a huge impact on your paycheck. The highest-paying state is New York, where the mean salary hits $155,360. Washington is close behind at $155,070, followed by Massachusetts ($145,010), Alaska ($139,190), and New Jersey ($138,230).
At the other end, West Virginia averages $95,740, Wyoming $92,320, and Arkansas $86,310—about $30,000 to $40,000 less than the top states. Cost of living explains some of that gap, but not all.
How to become a Construction Manager
Most construction managers start with a bachelor's degree in construction science, construction management, or civil engineering. Some enter through a related trade and work their way up—that path typically takes longer but can be equally effective.
Experience is critical. Many spend five or more years as a construction supervisor, project engineer, or in a trade before stepping into management. Certification isn't always required, but the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential from the Construction Management Association of America is widely respected and can boost job prospects.
Licensing varies by state; some require a contractor's license for certain project types. Check your state's licensing board.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in construction management, construction science, or civil engineering (or gain extensive trade experience).
- Gain 5+ years of experience as a supervisor or project engineer.
- Consider earning the CCM certification for better advancement opportunities.
- Check state licensing requirements; some states require a contractor's license.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of construction managers will grow 8.7% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 46,800 job openings each year over that period, mostly from replacement need and new construction projects. The demand is driven by population growth, aging infrastructure, and commercial building activity.
Climate resilience and renewable energy projects are also creating niche demand for managers with expertise in sustainable construction.
Frequently asked questions
What is a typical starting salary for a construction manager?
Entry-level construction managers—those in the bottom 10%—earn $69,690 or less per year according to the BLS. After gaining experience, pay rises quickly toward the median of $114,990.
Do construction managers need a degree?
A bachelor's degree in construction management, construction science, or civil engineering is typical, but it's possible to enter from the trades with extensive experience. Certifications like the CCM can help.
Is construction management a growing field?
Yes. The BLS projects 8.7% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 46,800 openings per year.
Which states pay construction managers the most?
New York ($155,360), Washington ($155,070), Massachusetts ($145,010), Alaska ($139,190), and New Jersey ($138,230) are the top five, per the BLS.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Construction Managers data.