Cost Estimators
Cost estimators prepare detailed price forecasts for manufacturing, construction, or service projects. They analyze materials, labor, equipment, and timelines to help companies bid competitively and set product prices. Cost estimators work across industries—construction firms, manufacturers, engineering companies, and government agencies—using historical data and current market conditions to build accurate estimates.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cost estimators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Cost estimators spend time gathering project specifications, reviewing blueprints, and collecting supplier quotes. They analyze labor costs, material prices, and equipment needs using spreadsheets and estimating software. Estimators meet with project managers and clients to clarify scope, adjust figures based on new information, and present findings. The work involves desk research, site visits, and calculations that feed directly into bidding and pricing decisions.
Who this work suits
Holland code CEI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy structured problem-solving and working with numbers and systems. If you're drawn to conventional, organized work and enterprising roles where your analysis directly influences business decisions, this field suits you. Strong attention to detail and comfort with spreadsheets and software are essential.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $75,420 | $100,840 | $127,400 | 4,520 |
| Alaska | $64,460 | $97,020 | $141,420 | 220 |
| Wyoming | $74,730 | $90,790 | $104,000 | 440 |
| Colorado | $73,400 | $86,940 | $109,990 | 6,100 |
| Washington | $70,720 | $86,070 | $108,120 | 7,470 |
| California | $65,690 | $85,460 | $118,060 | 26,020 |
| Illinois | $61,710 | $82,750 | $108,240 | 5,990 |
| District of Columbia | $82,220 | $82,730 | $101,420 | 270 |
| Nevada | $62,890 | $82,200 | $104,360 | 2,240 |
| Rhode Island | $69,470 | $81,990 | $98,100 | 590 |
| Vermont | $66,890 | $81,390 | $97,330 | 320 |
| Maryland | $63,080 | $81,190 | $106,360 | 4,580 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCE/A) — International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association
- Professional Cost Estimator/Analyst (PCEA) — International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association
- Certified Cost Technician (CCT) — AACE International, Inc.
- Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) — American Society of Professional Estimators
- Certified Cost Professional (CCP) — AACE International, Inc.
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 3 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against cost estimators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1051.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.