Business & Finance · SOC 13-1051
AI tools increasingly automate quantity takeoffs and historical cost modeling, compressing the routine estimation workload.
A large share of tasks is exposed; the role will change a lot.
Timeline: AI takeoff and cost modeling tools are transforming this role now; within 3–5 years, solo estimators will need to specialize in high-complexity projects or client-facing advisory to stay competitive.
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$76,790 median pay
$59,740 median pay
Business & Finance
$87,930 median pay
$106,000 median pay
$77,020 median pay
AI job-risk card
Cost Estimators is at risk on AIFear. A large share of tasks is exposed; the role will change a lot.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Cost Estimators is 68/100 (At risk). A large share of tasks is exposed; the role will change a lot.
68 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Analyzing blueprints to calculate material and labor quantities, Compiling historical cost data and benchmarking estimates, Preparing standard bid packages and cost summaries, Assessing cost effectiveness across project scenarios. Harder to automate: Negotiating with subcontractors and vendors, Handling site-specific uncertainty and judgment calls.
Lean into AI-assisted estimating software, Construction data analytics, Subcontractor negotiation, Project risk assessment. Consider roles such as Construction project manager or Owner's representative or Procurement manager.
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.