The Job Market for Construction Workers in the United States

The construction worker job market in the United States is significant, with various trends influencing employability and demand.

Current Employment Landscape

• Total Construction Workers: Approximately 1,418,600 construction workers are currently employed in the U.S.
• Projected Growth: The market is expected to grow by 4.4% from 2022 to 2032, translating to an estimated need for 66,900 new construction workers over the next decade. This figure accounts for both the demand for additional workers and the retirement of about 5,000 existing workers.

Employability Ratings

• CareerExplorer Rating: Construction workers receive a B employability rating, indicating strong employment opportunities in the foreseeable future.

Demand Factors

The demand for construction workers is driven by several factors:

• Population Growth: As the population increases, there is a corresponding need for new housing and infrastructure.
• Aging Infrastructure: Many existing buildings and facilities require updates or replacements.
• Healthcare Facilities: The growing elderly population necessitates more medical treatment facilities.

Despite these positive indicators, full-time employment may be impacted by:

• Use of Staffing Services: Employers often rely on construction staffing services and day laborers, which can limit the number of permanent positions available.
• Automation: The introduction of new machinery that enhances productivity may automate some roles, potentially reducing job growth.

Skills and Competitiveness

• Specialization: Laborers with specialized skills, particularly in road construction, are expected to have the best job prospects.
• Relocation: Workers willing to relocate may also find better opportunities.
• Limited Skills: Those with limited skills may face stiff competition from a plentiful supply of workers willing to take on day labor jobs.

Geographic Distribution of Employment

The construction workforce is concentrated in specific states, reflecting regional demands:

State	Employed Construction Workers
Texas	108,260
California	96,480
Florida	65,850
New York	60,780
Pennsylvania	41,150
Ohio	37,990
Georgia	35,260
Illinois	31,270
Washington	25,680
New Jersey	23,440
North Carolina	22,390
Michigan	21,850
Virginia	21,300
Colorado	21,250
Indiana	20,300
Missouri	19,900
Tennessee	19,830
Maryland	19,640
Massachusetts	19,560
Louisiana	18,350
Arizona	17,700
South Carolina	17,340
Wisconsin	13,780
Utah	13,510
Iowa	13,410
Minnesota	12,080
Oregon	11,160
Kansas	10,610
Kentucky	10,340
Oklahoma	9,850
New Mexico	8,630
Nevada	8,530
Alabama	7,900
Connecticut	7,900
West Virginia	7,410
Mississippi	7,180
Idaho	6,790
Puerto Rico	6,680
Arkansas	6,650
Hawaii	5,410
North Dakota	4,960
Montana	4,850
District of Columbia	3,720
Nebraska	3,240
New Hampshire	2,990
Wyoming	2,860
Maine	2,650
Rhode Island	2,650
Alaska	2,390
Delaware	1,810
South Dakota	1,730
Vermont	1,530
Guam	870
Virgin Islands, U.S.	240

Conclusion

Overall, the job market for construction workers in the United States remains robust, driven by a combination of population growth, infrastructure needs, and an aging workforce. While there are challenges, particularly related to job competition and automation, those with specialized skills and a willingness to relocate are likely to find favorable job prospects in the coming years.