As of November 01, 2025, the average salary for a Cost Engineer and Estimator V in the United States is $167,000 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $80.
However, a Cost Engineer and Estimator V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Cost Engineer and Estimator V's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Cost Engineer and Estimator V's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Cost Engineer and Estimator V | $164,139 |
| Intermediate Level Cost Engineer and Estimator V | $164,669 |
| Senior Level Cost Engineer and Estimator V | $164,881 |
| Specialist Level Cost Engineer and Estimator V | $165,940 |
| Expert Level Cost Engineer and Estimator V | $166,788 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Cost Engineer and Estimator Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Cost Engineer and Estimator V's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on November 01, 2025Salaries for a Cost Engineer and Estimator V can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $149,000 in 2023 to around $144,041 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Cost Engineer and Estimator V salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $149,000 |
| 2024 | $147,058 |
| 2025 | $144,041 |
| 2026 |
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|
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | $167,000 | 69.0% |
| Bonus | $11,100 | 4.6% |
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | $13,036 | 5.4% |
| 401K/403B | $7,480 | 3.1% |
| Disability | $3,562 | 1.5% |
| Healthcare | $8,352 | 3.5% |
| Pension | $9,617 | 4.0% |
| Time Off | $21,920 | 9.1% |
| Total Compensation | $242,067 | 100% |
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Construction salaries in the USA can vary significantly by role. For specialized positions like Cost Engineers and Estimators, salaries range from a minimum of $147,400 to a mid-level of $166,700, with experienced professionals earning up to $186,300 annually. This indicates that skilled roles in construction can offer lucrative compensation compared to general construction jobs.
In the USA, a Cost Engineer or Estimator typically earns between $147,400 and $186,300 annually. The average salary is around $166,700, translating to approximately $13,892 per month. This reflects a competitive salary range for professionals in this field, with top earners making significantly more.
Yes, estimators are in high demand, with job growth projected at 11%. In the construction sector, salaries for cost engineers and estimators range from a minimum of $147,400 to a maximum of $186,300, with a mid-salary of $166,700. This reflects the increasing value placed on skilled professionals in the industry.
Cost estimators generally require a bachelor's degree for entry into the field. However, individuals with extensive experience in construction may qualify without a degree. The salary for cost engineers and estimators ranges from a minimum of $147,400 to a maximum of $186,300, with a mid-salary of $166,700, reflecting the value of expertise in this profession.
Estimators can earn a substantial income, with salaries for Cost Engineers and Estimators ranging from a minimum of $147,400 to a maximum of $186,300. The median salary is approximately $166,700, indicating that many professionals in this field enjoy competitive compensation compared to the broader market.
Cost Engineers in the US can expect to earn between $147,400 and $186,300 annually, with a median salary of approximately $166,700. This reflects a more accurate range compared to previous estimates, highlighting the competitive compensation in this field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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