Logging Workers, All Other Salary 2025: $50,840 Median, Decline Ahead
Logging workers, all other earned a median salary of $50,840 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage was $52,910, or about $24 an hour. Most workers fall between $36,380 (10th percentile) and $69,350 (90th percentile). Employment is small—just 1,700 workers nationally—and the job is expected to shrink.
How much Logging Workers, All Other earn
The national median salary for logging workers, all other is $50,840, meaning half earn more and half less. The average (mean) is slightly higher at $52,910, pulled up by higher-paid workers.
The bottom 10% earn about $36,380 or less, while the top 10% make $69,350 or more. Hourly, the mean wage works out to roughly $24.
Pay varies significantly by state. The highest-paying state is Louisiana, where logging workers average $80,930. Washington pays $67,650, Oregon $57,890, Michigan $54,140, and North Carolina $48,460. The lowest-paying states include West Virginia ($41,790), Mississippi ($37,370), and Georgia ($34,870).
Pay by state
Wages for logging workers, all other differ sharply by location. Louisiana tops the list with an average salary of $80,930. Washington follows at $67,650, then Oregon at $57,890, Michigan at $54,140, and North Carolina at $48,460.
At the lower end, West Virginia averages $41,790, Mississippi $37,370, and Georgia $34,870. These differences reflect local industry demand, cost of living, and the mix of logging work.
How to become Logging Workers, All Other
Most logging workers learn through on-the-job training. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. No formal postsecondary education is necessary, but vocational training in forestry or equipment operation can help.
Physical fitness and stamina are critical. Workers often need to lift heavy loads, operate machinery, and work in remote, rugged terrain. Some states require logging-specific safety certifications, such as first aid or chainsaw training. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) may be needed for transporting equipment.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- On-the-job training, often lasting a few months to a year.
- Optional: vocational courses in forestry, logging, or heavy equipment operation.
- State-specific safety certifications (e.g., OSHA logging safety training).
- CDL license for hauling logs.
Job outlook
Employment for logging workers, all other is projected to decline 4.7% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 80 jobs. That's a steeper drop than the average occupation. Despite the decline, around 400 openings per year are expected—mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Automation and efficiency improvements in logging are reducing demand for manual labor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Logging Workers, All Other?
The median annual salary is $50,840, with a mean of $52,910, according to BLS data.
Which state pays the most for Logging Workers, All Other?
Louisiana pays the highest average salary at $80,930, followed by Washington ($67,650) and Oregon ($57,890).
Is the job outlook for Logging Workers, All Other good?
No—employment is expected to decline 4.7% over 2024–2034, though about 400 openings per year will occur due to turnover.
What education is needed to become a Logging Worker, All Other?
A high school diploma and on-the-job training are typical. Certifications like chainsaw safety or a CDL can improve prospects.
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 Logging Workers, All Other data.