Construction Trades Workers Salary 2025: $58,150 Median, 4.7 Million Jobs
Construction trades workers make a median $58,150 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $28 per hour. The middle 80% earns between $37,850 and $98,180. With 4.7 million employed, it's one of the largest blue-collar occupations in the country.
How much Construction Trades Workers earn
The median annual wage for construction trades workers is $58,150. The mean wage is slightly higher at $62,880, or roughly $28 an hour. Entry-level workers in the 10th percentile earn about $37,850, while the top 10% make over $98,180. Overtime and prevailing wage projects can push pay higher.
- Median annual wage: $58,150
- Mean annual wage: $62,880 ($28/hr)
- 10th percentile: $37,850
- 90th percentile: $98,180
Pay by state
BLS does not provide state-level breakdowns specifically for the broad 'construction trades workers' category. However, wages tend to be highest in states with strong union presence and high cost of living, such as New York, California, and Illinois. Lower pay is common in the South and rural states. For exact figures, consult the BLS occupational employment statistics for individual trades like carpenters or electricians.
How to become Construction Trades Worker
Most construction trades workers learn through on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship. Apprenticeships combine paid work with classroom instruction, typically lasting 2 to 4 years. For many specialized trades like electricians and plumbers, state licensure is required after completing training and passing an exam. While a high school diploma is common, some trades require technical courses or a certificate from a trade school.
- High school diploma or equivalent usually needed
- Apprenticeship program: 2-4 years, paid
- State license required for many trades (e.g., electrician, plumber)
- Some employers hire entry-level and train on site
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for the broad 'construction trades workers' category for 2024–2034. However, demand for construction remains tied to overall economic conditions, infrastructure spending, and the housing market. The occupation employed 4,739,450 workers in 2024, a sign of a large, stable workforce.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for construction trades workers?
The mean hourly wage is about $28, based on a mean annual wage of $62,880 and a typical full-time schedule.
What is the lowest salary for a construction trades worker?
The 10th percentile earns $37,850 annually. Entry-level or part-time workers may earn less.
Do construction trades workers need a college degree?
No. Most trades require a high school diploma and completion of an apprenticeship or vocational training. Some states require a license.
How many construction trades workers are there in the US?
The BLS reports 4,739,450 jobs in 2024, making it one of the largest occupations.
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 Trades Workers data.