Average Construction Laborers Salary in North Carolina
Construction Laborers in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $44,210, which is notably below the national average of $51,280. This disparity is often influenced by regional economic factors, the specific demand for construction services within the state, and the overall cost of living, which can impact wage setting.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $44,210 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 35.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,630.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 38,530 Construction Laborers, North Carolina demonstrates a significant presence in this sector. The Location Quotient of 1.15 indicates that this profession is more concentrated in North Carolina than the national average, suggesting a robust and potentially growing demand for these essential roles within the state's economy.
Salary Overview
The average Construction Laborers in North Carolina earns-13.8%below the national average.
$21.3
$850
$3,684
Construction Laborers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Construction Laborers in North Carolina have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increased construction activity, infrastructure development, and general economic expansion within the state.
Construction Laborers Salary Distribution in North Carolina
Salary progression for Construction Laborers in North Carolina typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and a proven track record can command significantly higher salaries, often reflected in the upper percentiles of the salary distribution.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $29,460 | $14.2 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $33,158 | $15.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $42,250 | $20.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $55,263 | $26.6 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $61,630 | $29.6 |
Detailed Construction Laborers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$44,210
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,586
Adjusted for COL (94.9)
The average annual salary of $44,210 in North Carolina presents a favorable financial picture when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 94.9. This index is below the national average of 100, meaning that the purchasing power of a Construction Laborer's salary in North Carolina may extend further than in areas with a higher cost of living, potentially offering a better quality of life.
Job Market Context
38,530
Total Jobs
7.867
Per 1K Jobs
1.15
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.15, North Carolina has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Construction Laborers roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.15 signifies that Construction Laborers are more prevalent in North Carolina compared to the national average. This suggests a healthy job market with a solid concentration of opportunities, indicating that employers actively seek and retain this talent, making it a competitive yet accessible field for those looking to enter or advance their careers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Construction Laborers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Construction Laborers Salary | $42,520↓ 4% | 32 mi |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC Construction Laborers Salary | $44,630↑ 1% | 36 mi |
| Burlington, NC Construction Laborers Salary | $41,810↓ 5% | 36 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Construction Laborers Salary | $44,320↑ 0% | 41 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Construction Laborers Salary | $46,820↑ 6% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near North Carolina
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Construction Laborers make in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for a Construction Laborers in North Carolina is $44,210. This typically ranges from $29,460 for entry-level positions to $61,630 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 13.8% lower than the national median of $51,280.
Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Construction Laborers?
Yes, with caveats.While the average salary is below the national average, the lower cost of living enhances purchasing power. The strong concentration of jobs (LQ of 1.15) also indicates good market demand.
Is North Carolina a good place to live for Construction Laborers?
With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near North Carolina?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($42,520) and Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC.
How does experience impact a Construction Laborer's salary in North Carolina?
Experience significantly influences earnings. Entry-level laborers earn less, while those with several years of experience, specialized skills, or supervisory roles can command higher wages, moving into the upper salary percentiles.
What is the job outlook for Construction Laborers in North Carolina?
The outlook appears positive, with a substantial workforce and a Location Quotient above the national average, suggesting consistent demand for construction labor within the state's economy.
How does North Carolina's cost of living compare to the national average?
North Carolina's cost of living is slightly below the national average, with an index of 94.9 compared to 100, making the average salary of $44,210 more valuable in terms of purchasing power.
Are there more Construction Laborer jobs in North Carolina than the national average?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.15 indicates a higher concentration of Construction Laborer jobs in North Carolina relative to the national average, suggesting greater availability of these roles.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 38,530 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 7.867 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Construction Laborers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in North Carolina