Logging Workers earn $49,660 median salary in 2025
Logging Workers earn a median $49,660 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to about $24 an hour. The middle 80% of workers earn between $35,170 and $74,080, so pay varies widely by experience, location, and employer.
How much Logging Workers earn
The median annual wage for Logging Workers is $49,660. Half of workers earn more than that, half less. The average (mean) wage is slightly higher at $53,020, which suggests some high earners pull the average up.
At the low end, the 10th percentile earns $35,170 or less. At the high end, the 90th percentile earns $74,080 or more. That's a wide range—about $39,000 between the bottom and top 10%.
Geography plays a big role. States with the highest concentration of logging jobs tend to pay more, while states with fewer operations may pay less.
Pay by state
BLS data don't specify the highest- and lowest-paying states for Logging Workers, but typical patterns hold: states in the Pacific Northwest, the Southeast, and parts of the Northeast have larger logging industries and tend to pay above the national median. Maine, Oregon, Washington, and Alabama are common hubs. In lower-paying states, often in the Plains or Southwest where timber is scarce, wages can fall below the 10th percentile.
For exact state-by-state figures, consult the BLS OEWS data portal.
How to become Logging Worker
Most logging workers learn on the job. Formal education beyond high school is rarely required, though a high school diploma or GED is typical. The key is physical stamina and comfort working outdoors in all weather.
Here are the usual steps:
- Get a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Complete on-the-job training, often lasting from a few weeks to several months, depending on the role (e.g., feller, log grader, heavy equipment operator).
- Earn certifications if needed: first aid/CPR, chainsaw safety (e.g., OSHA or trade association courses), and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) for log truck drivers.
- For equipment operation, experience with heavy machinery is valuable; some vocational schools offer logging equipment programs.
Job outlook
BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for Logging Workers from 2024 to 2034. The occupation is small, with only 28,960 jobs nationally. Replacement needs due to retirements and turnover will create openings, but overall employment is expected to see little change. Automation and mechanization continue to reduce the need for manual loggers, while demand for wood products remains steady.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for logging workers?
The BLS does not release state-level pay rankings for this occupation, but states with large timber industries like Oregon, Washington, Maine, and Alabama typically pay above the national median.
How much does a logging worker make per hour?
The median hourly wage is about $24, based on the mean annual wage of $53,020. Entry-level workers might start around $17 per hour; top earners can make $36 per hour or more.
Is logging a dangerous job?
Yes, logging is one of the most hazardous occupations in the U.S. Employers are required to provide safety training and protective equipment. Consistent safety practices reduce risk.
Do logging workers need a college degree?
No, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient. Most skills are learned on the job or through vocational training programs.
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 data.