Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary in Detroit, MI

In Detroit, MI, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who work by hand earn a median annual salary of $39,790, with an hourly rate of approximately $19.13. This income level is slightly above the national median for this occupation, which stands at $38,940 annually. When compared to local household incomes in Detroit, where the area median household income is $75,123, it becomes evident that these laborers earn less than half of what an average household earns. This discrepancy highlights the economic challenges faced by workers in this role, especially considering the local unemployment rate of 4.50%, which suggests a competitive job market with limited opportunities for wage increases.

Entry-level workers in this field generally start at or near the 10th percentile salary range, earning approximately $32,860 annually, while those who are more experienced and situated around the 75th percentile can earn up to $46,330 per year. The significant difference in earnings between entry-level and experienced laborers is primarily driven by factors such as tenure, skill level, and the ability to handle complex or specialized tasks. Those at the higher end of the salary spectrum are often able to command better wages due to their extensive knowledge of safety protocols, efficiency in operations, and capacity for leadership within their teams. As workers gain experience and demonstrate increased proficiency, they typically see substantial growth in their earning potential, reflecting the value placed on seasoned expertise in this occupation.