Laborers and Material Movers Salary: $38,130 Median (2025 BLS)
The median annual wage for laborers and material movers is $38,130, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $18 per hour. The typical range runs from $30,160 at the 10th percentile to $51,070 at the 90th, meaning half of all workers earn between those figures.
How much Laborers and Material Movers earn
The median annual wage for laborers and material movers is $38,130, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023 OEWS estimates). That works out to about $18 per hour on a standard schedule. The typical earnings span from $30,160 at the 10th percentile to $51,070 at the 90th. The mean wage across the occupation is $40,440.
Pay varies by industry, experience, and location. Warehousing and storage tend to pay near the median, while some manufacturing or transportation roles may reach the upper end. Entry-level positions often start closer to $30,000, while experienced workers in specialized material moving can top $50,000.
Pay by state
BLS data does not provide breakdowns by state for this occupation in the 2023 release. However, regional differences in cost of living and industry mix mean that states with large warehousing hubs (like California, Texas, and Illinois) typically report higher median wages, while rural states may be lower. Check your state's OEWS data for local figures.
How to become a Laborer and Material Mover
This job typically requires no formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers provide short-term on-the-job training lasting from a few days to a few weeks. Physical stamina, the ability to follow safety instructions, and basic math skills (for measuring or counting) are common requirements.
Some positions require a forklift or other equipment certification. For example, the OSHA forklift operator certification can be obtained through a training course (often offered by employers). No state license is generally needed for basic material moving.
- High school diploma or GED (often preferred, not always required)
- On-the-job training (typically a week or less)
- Forklift certification for powered industrial truck roles
- Pass a pre-employment drug test and physical ability test
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this specific occupation for 2024–2034 (data not available). However, the broader category of material moving workers is typically tied to the health of the logistics, manufacturing, and retail sectors. With e-commerce continuing to expand, demand for warehouse labor remains strong in many regions. Turnover is high, so openings regularly occur.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly pay for Laborers and Material Movers?
The median hourly wage is roughly $18, based on the annual median of $38,130. Actual pay depends on overtime and schedule.
Do Laborers and Material Movers need a degree?
No. Most positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent, and training is provided on the job.
What is the highest-paying state for this job?
BLS state-level data for this occupation is not provided in the 2023 release. Check your state's OEWS data for more specific pay.
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 Laborers and Material Movers data.