Construction Laborers Salary in San Diego, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA

Median annual salary $58,600 +25.4% vs national
Median hourly $28.18
10th percentile $41,070
90th percentile $88,890
Employed locally 7,530
National median $46,730

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Construction Laborers
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    In San Diego, CA, construction laborers earn a median annual salary of $58,600, which is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $46,730. This indicates that local workers in this field are compensated more generously compared to their counterparts across the country. When examining these earnings relative to the area's median household income of $102,285, construction laborers make up a substantial portion of typical San Diego households' earnings. While their salary is below the median for all household types in the region, it still represents a critical contribution, particularly within working-class families where multiple earners may be contributing towards a common financial goal.

    Entry-level construction laborers in San Diego start closer to the 10th percentile at around $41,070 annually, while those further along in their careers can earn up to or beyond the 75th percentile, which stands at $76,510. The disparity between entry-level and experienced workers is largely driven by factors such as skill level, job responsibilities, and seniority. More experienced laborers often command higher wages due to specialized skills, efficiency improvements over time, and increased responsibility on job sites. Additionally, regional economic conditions and local demand for construction projects in San Diego contribute to these variations, influencing wage growth opportunities for those who advance within the field.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $41,070
    25th
    $48,160
    50th (median)
    $58,600
    75th
    $76,510
    90th
    $88,890

    San Diego economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $102,285 2023 • Census ACS
    Construction Laborers salary vs area income 57% Median Construction Laborers salary is 43% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Construction Laborers make per hour in San Diego?

    The median hourly wage for Construction Laborers in San Diego, CA is $28.18, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $41.35 or more per hour.

    Is San Diego above or below average for Construction Laborers salaries?

    The median Construction Laborers salary in San Diego, CA is 25.4% above the national median of $46,730. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Construction Laborers in San Diego?

    Entry-level Construction Laborers (10th percentile) earn around $41,070 per year in San Diego, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $48,160.