As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Project Cost Estimator V in the United States is $167,150 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $80.
However, a Project Cost Estimator V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Project Cost 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 Project Cost 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:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Engineer and Estimator III | 4-7 years | $106,835 |
| Cost Engineer and Estimator IV | 7+ years | $141,646 |
| Project Cost Estimator V | 7-10 years | $167,145 |
| Project Cost Estimator Lead | 10+ years | $88,120 |
| Technical Project Estimating Senior Supervisor | 10+ years | $124,098 |
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 Estimator Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Project Cost 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 May 01, 2026For a Project Cost Estimator V, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Project Cost Estimator Lead role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $88,120 - a projected growth of -47% over your current level.
Salaries for a Project Cost 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 Project Cost 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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| 2027 |
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Cost estimators in the US earn between $147,330 and $186,250 annually, with a median salary of $166,610. This translates to approximately $70.77 to $89.54 per hour, or $2,835 to $3,590 per week. The average salary reflects the specialized skills and expertise required in this field.
A Project Cost Estimator typically earns between $147,330 and $186,250 annually, with a median salary of $166,610. While some cities may offer lower salaries, the overall compensation reflects the expertise and demand for this role in the industry.
Salary.com is likely the most comprehensive salary comparison website, providing detailed salary data for various job roles, including Project Cost Estimator. For this position, the salary ranges from a minimum of $147,330 to a mid-level of $166,610, with a maximum of $186,250. The site also considers factors like industry, location, and experience level, often including benefits information.
Project management in the USA can be quite lucrative, especially for roles like Project Cost Estimator. The salary range for this position is impressive, with a minimum of $147,330, a mid-level salary of $166,610, and a maximum of $186,250. This indicates strong earning potential compared to the average project manager salary of $99,841 across various industries.
Estimating can be a stressful job due to the numerous components and details that require careful review. Accuracy is crucial, and estimators must balance risk to secure projects. Despite the challenges, the role offers competitive salaries, ranging from $147,330 to $186,250, reflecting the expertise and responsibility involved in the position.
A career as a cost estimator can be rewarding, ranking #21 in Best Business Jobs. With salaries ranging from $147,330 to $186,250, it offers competitive compensation. This role combines analytical skills with project management, making it a strong choice for those interested in the construction and engineering sectors.
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.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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