As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Cost Estimator I in the United States is $59,395 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.
However, a Cost Estimator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Cost Estimator 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 and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Cost Estimator 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Estimator I | 1-3 years | $59,395 |
| Cost Estimator II | 3-5 years | $69,043 |
| Cost Estimating Supervisor | 5+ years | $88,120 |
| Cost Estimating Senior Supervisor | 5+ years | $124,098 |
| Cost Estimating Manager | 5+ years | $141,289 |
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 Estimator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Cost Estimator 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 May 01, 2026For a Cost Estimator I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Cost Estimator II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $69,043 - a projected growth of 16% over your current level.
Salaries for a Cost Estimator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $59,745 in 2023 to around $59,667 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Cost Estimator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $59,745 |
| 2024 | $59,975 |
| 2025 | $59,667 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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A Cost Estimator I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Cost Estimator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Cost Estimator I is $74,915.
The highest pay for Cost Estimator I is $68,447.
The lowest pay for Cost Estimator I is $44,788.
Develops cost estimates for projects based on work scope, specifications, and contract proposals using applicable estimating methodologies and tools. Analyzes project requirements, plans, and specifications to identify labor, material, equipment, and service requirements. Uses benchmark data, trends, prior estimates, and historical pricing schedules to generate detailed cost estimates that consist of itemized lists of expenses, labor hours, material quantities, and potential cost variations. Depending on the complexity and type of project, may use different estimating methods, mathematical models, or specialized estimating software tools to generate estimates. Typically requires an associate degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
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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