If you are considering a career in construction or thinking of hiring a professional, you may wonder: how much do concrete contractors make? The answer varies depending on skill level, type of project, and location. In cities like New York, where demand is consistently high, concrete contractors can earn significantly more than the national average. At Concrete Contractor NYC, we have years of experience in the industry, and we know exactly how contractor pay rates work in today’s competitive market. This guide explains salaries, hourly rates, and income factors in detail.
Concrete Contractor Salary Overview
Concrete contractors play a crucial role in construction, handling everything from foundations and sidewalks to large-scale commercial projects. Because of the physical labor and technical expertise required, pay levels are often higher than standard construction jobs.
What Is the Average Salary for Concrete Contractors?
Across the U.S., the average salary for concrete contractors ranges from $45,000 to $85,000 per year. This depends largely on whether the contractor is working independently, employed by a construction company, or subcontracting. Contractors in major metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago typically fall on the higher end of this scale.
Concrete Contractor Annual Income and Earnings Breakdown
Contractors earn income in several ways:
- Hourly wages for small projects or short-term work
- Flat-rate contracts for large projects such as foundations or parking lots
- Business profits if they run their own crew
At Concrete Contractor NYC, many of our senior contractors earn well above the national average due to the premium rates associated with high-demand city projects.
How Much Do Concrete Contractors Make Per Hour?
Concrete Contractor Hourly Rate
On average, concrete contractors charge between $20 and $45 per hour. Those specializing in custom finishes, decorative concrete, or large structural work can earn even more.
Concrete Contractor Pay Rate by State
Pay rates differ significantly based on geography:
- New York & California: $35–$50/hr
- Texas & Florida: $25–$40/hr
- Midwest States: $20–$30/hr
The variation comes from cost of living, demand for construction, and competition in each state.
Wages for Entry-Level vs. Experienced Contractors
- Entry-level contractors usually earn $18–$25 per hour, especially when working under supervision.
- Experienced contractors with years of expertise and client referrals often earn $40–$60 per hour or more.
How Much Do Concrete Contractors Make a Year?
Concrete Contractor Job Salary (National Average)
Nationwide, the average yearly salary for concrete contractors is around $60,000–$75,000. Those who manage larger projects, or operate in high-demand markets, can easily surpass $100,000 annually.
Average Income for Concrete Contractors by Region
- Northeast (NY, NJ, PA): $70,000–$95,000
- South (TX, FL, GA): $55,000–$75,000
- West Coast (CA, WA, OR): $65,000–$100,000
This shows that location plays a huge role in determining contractor salaries.
Annual Income Comparison: Contractors vs. Subcontractors
Independent contractors generally earn more because they can set their own rates and manage larger crews. Subcontractors, however, make slightly less but enjoy steady work provided by general contractors. On average:
- Independent contractors: $80,000–$120,000/year
- Subcontractors: $45,000–$65,000/year
Concrete Contractor Wages by Work Type
Residential Concrete Contractor Salary
Residential contractors, who work on projects like driveways, patios, and basement flooring, typically earn $50,000–$70,000 per year.
Commercial Concrete Contractor Salary
Commercial contractors working on large-scale projects such as warehouses, skyscrapers, and roads earn significantly more — often $80,000–$120,000 annually.
Concrete Subcontractor Salary
Subcontractors earn less because they take on parts of projects assigned by larger companies. Their salaries average $45,000–$65,000 annually, depending on workload.
How Much Do Concrete Workers Make Compared to Contractors?
Concrete Worker Hourly Wages
Concrete workers (laborers) usually earn $18–$28 per hour, depending on experience and location. While this is respectable, it’s lower than what licensed contractors make.
Difference Between Workers and Licensed Contractors
Concrete workers are paid wages for manual labor, while contractors earn more because they manage contracts, ensure compliance, and take responsibility for project success. At Concrete Contractor NYC, our licensed contractors not only lead crews but also deliver higher quality, which justifies their higher salaries.
Factors That Affect Concrete Contractor Earnings
Location and Market Demand
In booming construction markets like New York City, rates are significantly higher than in rural towns due to demand and cost of living.
Experience and Skill Level
Highly skilled contractors who specialize in stamped or polished concrete often earn more than general contractors handling basic work.
Size and Type of Projects (Residential vs. Commercial)
Commercial projects usually pay more because they require bigger crews, more equipment, and longer timeframes.
Independent Contractor vs. Subcontractor Pay
Independent contractors earn more but carry higher overhead costs. Subcontractors trade autonomy for steady work and lower risk.
Is Becoming a Concrete Contractor Worth It?
Pros of Working as a Concrete Contractor
- High demand across residential and commercial markets
- Potential to grow into owning a business
- Opportunity to earn above-average salaries
Challenges and Profit Margins
- Physically demanding and weather-dependent work
- Competition in busy cities
- Responsibility for labor, insurance, and materials
Long-Term Career Growth Potential
With the rise of infrastructure upgrades, real estate development, and custom finishes, the concrete industry is expected to keep growing. Skilled contractors in cities like New York have excellent long-term income opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Concrete Contractor Salary in 2025
So, how much do concrete contractors make? In 2025, the average ranges between $60,000 and $95,000 annually, with top professionals making over $120,000. The exact number depends on hourly rates, region, and project type.
At Concrete Contractor NYC, we showcase the potential of this profession every day. Whether you’re hiring a reliable contractor for your project or considering entering this field, one thing is clear: concrete contracting remains a profitable and rewarding career in today’s construction industry.
