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Project Cost Estimator V Salary in the United States

How much does a Project Cost Estimator V make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Project Cost Estimator V in the United States is $167,280 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:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $214,334
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $160,760 to $191,910
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $154,824
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Project Cost Estimator V Salaries

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.

How Experience Level Affects Project Cost Estimator Salaries?

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:

  • Cost Engineer and Estimator III (4-7 years): $106,868
  • Cost Engineer and Estimator IV (7+ years): $141,719
  • Project Cost Estimator V (7-10 years): $167,273
  • Project Cost Estimator Lead (10+ years): $88,135
  • Technical Project Estimating Senior Supervisor (10+ years): $124,164
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Cost Engineer and Estimator III4-7 years$106,868
Cost Engineer and Estimator IV7+ years$141,719
Project Cost Estimator V7-10 years$167,273
Project Cost Estimator Lead10+ years$88,135
Technical Project Estimating Senior Supervisor10+ years$124,164
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How Do Project Cost Estimator V Salaries Vary from State to State?

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:
  • District of Columbia: $185,210.
  • California: $184,510.
  • Massachusetts: $182,050.

Top Paying Cities for Project Cost Estimator Vs

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $210,990
  • San Francisco: $208,680
  • Oakland: $204,280

Project Cost Estimator V Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Project Cost Estimator V salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $186,942. While startup companies pay approximate $158,134.

Project Cost Estimator V Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $158,134
Growth Stage 51~500 $167,243
Established 501~5000 $180,517
Enterprise 5000+ $186,942

Project Cost Estimator V Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Project Cost Estimator V roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Aerospace & Defense and Biotechnology sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Project Cost Estimator positions in Transportation or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Project Cost Estimator V as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Project Cost Estimator V

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Aerospace & Defense$200,736$97.020%
Biotechnology$200,736$97.020%
Financial Services$200,736$97.020%
Pharmaceuticals$200,736$97.020%
Software & Networking$200,736$97.020%

Project Cost Estimator V Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

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 September 01, 2026
$160,760
Average $167,280/year
$191,910
$13,397
Average $13,940/month
$15,993
$3,092
Average $3,217/week
$3,691
$77
Average $80/hour
$92
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $191,910 $15,993 $3,691 $92
Average $167,280 $13,940 $3,217 $80
25th Percentile $160,760 $13,397 $3,092 $77

Project Cost Estimator V Salary Growth & Career Path

Project Cost Estimator V

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Advancement

For 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 $88,140 - a projected growth of -47% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Project Cost Estimator V

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Project Cost Estimator V

Here are companies hiring for Project Cost Estimator V and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Project Cost Estimator V

1. What industry pays the highest salary for Project Cost Estimator V?

The Aerospace & Defense industry offers the highest average compensation for Project Cost Estimator V roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

2. How much do cost estimators make in the US?

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.

3. How much does a project estimator make a year?

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.

4. What is the most accurate salary estimator?

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.

5. How lucrative is project management in USA?

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.

6. Is estimating a stressful job?

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.

7. Is a cost estimator a good career?

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.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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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