Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary in Central Missouri

In Central Missouri, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who perform their tasks manually earn a median annual salary of $36,050, which translates to approximately $17.33 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national median annual salary for this occupation, which stands at $38,940 as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wages survey (BLS OEWS) for May 2025. When compared to local household incomes in Central Missouri, the earnings of these workers tend to fall short of covering the typical expenses associated with a median household income, suggesting that individuals employed in this role may face financial challenges similar to those encountered by other labor-intensive occupations in the region.

Entry-level workers in this field generally earn near the 10th percentile mark, making about $29,320 annually, whereas more experienced workers can approach or exceed the 90th percentile earning potential of $45,630 per year. The disparity between these income levels is driven primarily by factors such as tenure, skill proficiency, physical endurance, and the ability to work in varied environments under different conditions. Additionally, those with specialized skills or certifications may command higher wages, while geographic location within Central Missouri can also influence pay rates due to variations in cost of living and demand for labor.