As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Project Cost Controller I in the United States is $70,800 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $34.
However, a Project Cost Controller I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Project Cost Controller I'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, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Project Cost Controller I'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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Project Cost Controller I | 0-2 years | $70,707 |
| Project Cost Controller II | 2-4 years | $86,396 |
| Project Cost Controller III | 4-7 years | $108,625 |
| Project Cost Controller IV | 7+ years | $131,818 |
| Project Cost Controller V | 7-10 years | $155,328 |
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 Project Cost Controller Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 9.67% |
| Quotations | 2.95% |
| Procurement | 1.32% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Consulting
|
$82,836 |
17%
|
|
Oral Communication
|
$77,172 |
9%
|
|
RFI
|
$76,464 |
8%
|
|
Data Analysis
|
$76,464 |
8%
|
|
Project Control
|
$75,048 |
6%
|
|
Cost Management
|
$74,340 |
5%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Project Cost Controller Is enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Project Cost Controller I with a Bachelor's Degree is between $68,445 and $72,288).
Project Cost Controller I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 1.5% |
| High School | 6.9% |
| Associates | 11.5% |
| Bachelors | 69.2% |
| Masters | 10.8% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Project Cost Controller I'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 April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Project Cost Controller I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Application Coordinator/Project Manager-Cerner Certified | $105,900 | 50% |
| Manufacturing Program Manager II | $87,800 | 24% |
| Engineering Program Improvement Manager III | $111,400 | 57% |
| Internal Project Management/Consulting II | $94,800 | 34% |
Salaries for a Project Cost Controller I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $72,785 in 2023 to around $72,377 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Project Cost Controller I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $72,785 |
| 2024 | $72,894 |
| 2025 | $72,377 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Project Cost Controller I and their salaries, click below for more details.
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To become a cost controller, you should have a bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field, along with several years of industry experience. Your responsibilities will include verifying costs with vendors, estimating expenditures, and recommending cost-saving measures. The salary for a Project Cost Controller typically ranges from $66,100 to $81,800, with a midpoint of $73,000.
The highest salary for a Project Cost Controller is $81,800 per year. These professionals typically report to the CFO and are responsible for managing budgets, audits, and financial reports, ensuring compliance with tax codes and regulations. The salary range for this role is between $66,100 and $81,800, with a midpoint of $73,000.
To become a project cost controller, focus on education, experience, and skill development in project management, financial reporting, planning, and cost control. Certifications like PMP or Prince2, along with proficiency in project control tools, enhance your career prospects. The salary range for this role is between $66,100 and $81,800, with a midpoint of $73,000.
A Project Cost Controller is not an entry-level job. This role typically requires significant experience in accounting and project management. Salaries for this position range from $66,100 to $81,800, with a midpoint of $73,000, reflecting the expertise and responsibilities involved in overseeing project costs effectively.
The highest salary for a Project Cost Controller is $81,800 per year, based on the provided salary data. While some cities may offer higher salaries for controllers, this figure represents the maximum for this specific role.
The highest paid Project Cost Controller typically earns between $66,100 and $81,800 annually, with a mid-salary of $73,000. While specific project manager roles may offer higher salaries, the Project Cost Controller position provides a competitive salary range within the project management field.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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