Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers Salary Guide 2025: Pay, How to Become, and Outlook
The median annual wage for Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers is $45,990, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $22 per hour. The typical pay range spans from $27,120 at the 10th percentile to $60,810 at the 90th percentile. With only 3,020 workers nationally, this is a niche occupation where location and experience matter a lot.
How much Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers earn
The median salary distinguishes the midpoint of earners: half of installers make more, half make less. The mean (average) wage is slightly lower at $45,410, indicating a balanced distribution. Entry-level workers typically start around $27,120, while the most experienced installers can reach $60,810.
Pay varies by industry and employer. Installers working in residential building construction or for mobile home dealers often see different compensation structures, including piece-rate pay or hourly wages.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state is California, where installers earn a mean annual wage of $59,450. Washington follows at $56,690, then Missouri ($55,390), North Carolina ($51,460), and Virginia ($50,500).
At the lower end, Kentucky pays a mean of $34,770, Alabama $34,670, and West Virginia $26,690 — roughly half of what California offers. State-level data reflects local demand, cost of living, and industry concentration.
How to become a Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installer
Most installers learn on the job — there is no formal degree requirement. Employers typically provide training that covers site preparation, leveling, anchoring, and connecting utilities. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually enough to start.
- Get hired by a manufactured home dealer, builder, or installation contractor. Entry-level roles often involve assisting experienced installers.
- Complete manufacturer-specific training for the types of homes you'll install. Some states require a licensed installer credential, especially for HUD-code homes.
- Obtain any required state license or certification. For example, many states mandate a manufactured home installer license, which may involve passing an exam and paying a fee.
- Build experience. Skilled installers can advance to lead installer or supervisor, and some eventually start their own installation business.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for manufactured building and mobile home installers to grow 5.9% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 300 job openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field.
Demand is tied to the housing market, especially affordable housing trends. As manufactured homes remain a cost-effective option, especially in rural areas, the need for qualified installers should persist.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installer?
The typical starting salary (10th percentile) is $27,120 per year, according to BLS data. Entry-level workers usually earn less than the median of $45,990.
Do I need a license to be a mobile home installer?
Requirements vary by state. Many states require installers to hold a license or registration, particularly for HUD-code manufactured homes. Check with your state's housing or licensing agency.
Is this job growing?
Yes. The BLS projects 5.9% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 300 job openings are expected each year.
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 Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers data.