Entry-Level Construction Manager Salary in South Burlington, VT: $65,632 (2026)
Quick Answer:New construction managers entering the South Burlington, VT job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $65,632 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 11-9021, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out South Burlington's local price level (BEA RPP 103.5 — 4% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $63,413 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($107,532) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, the starting construction manager salary in South Burlington, Vermont is projected to be approximately $65,632, which may seem modest compared to the city’s median salary of $107,532. New graduates entering the construction management field can expect a growth trajectory that allows for movement into the 25th percentile, offering pay around $82,230 within the first few years of employment. This growth presents opportunities for graduates to progress toward the median earnings as they gain experience, suggesting that South Burlington's market could be favorable for new entrants into the field. Considering factors like the current demand for construction managers due to ongoing mega-projects, entry-level positions can provide a solid foundation for a sustainable career in the local construction industry, making it an encouraging environment for recent grads.
About the South Burlington Market
Salary estimated from Vermont average ($100,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in South Burlington
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in South Burlington
Entry-level construction managers in South Burlington, VT typically start between $65,632 and $82,230 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $101,043 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $107,532 — 9.58% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average construction management program cost in Vermont of $70,000 represents just 106.66% of the starting construction manager pay ($65,632/year) in South Burlington. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on ACCE-accredited construction management bachelor's programs at public and private universities. In-state public tuition at the low end; private universities at the high end. Many employers sponsor PMP/CCM certifications post-graduation.
CM Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in South Burlington
- 1Research the South Burlington market: entry-level construction manager pay ranges from $65,632 to $82,230, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the construction management field — employers in VT often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in South Burlington, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in South Burlington for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5South Burlington's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Construction Manager Compensation Range
The construction manager wage spread in South Burlington is $101,043 ( 153.95%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $65,632, experienced hygienists can earn up to $166,675.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$51,123
2025 BLS Actual
$63,462
2026 Current Est.
$65,632
2019–2027 Growth
+32.8%
Salary Trajectory for Construction Managers in South Burlington (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 3.42% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $51,123 | Actual |
| 2020 | $51,797 | Actual |
| 2021 | $54,683 | Actual |
| 2022 | $56,650 | Actual |
| 2023 | $58,718 | Actual |
| 2024 | $59,998 | Actual |
| 2025 | $63,462 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $65,632 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $67,877 | Projected |
Entry-level construction manager compensation (10th percentile) in South Burlington, VT grew 24.1% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $51,123 in 2019 to $63,462 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $67,877. New graduates entering the South Burlington job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the South Burlington metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 3.42% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your construction management Career in South Burlington
In South Burlington, a variety of employers are keen to recruit fresh talent for entry-level construction manager roles. Large general contractors such as Bechtel and Turner often connect with graduates through campus recruitment for positions such as assistant project managers. Specialty contractors and real estate developers, however, generally focus on hiring more experienced individuals, making the first years after graduation crucial for building a solid resume. Aspiring construction managers should consider gaining credentials like a Bachelor’s in construction management or civil engineering, along with options for certifications such as CCM or PMP, which can significantly enhance starting pay and career prospects in Vermont. With the current construction boom, particularly in areas like data centers and EV battery plants, fresh graduates can expect to see salary growth in their first few years, aligning with industry demands. Engaging in internships or project work can provide essential experience, creating pathways into roles that offer better work-life balance and steady compensation.
More salary data for South Burlington, VT:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for construction managers in South Burlington in 2026?
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Is construction management school worth it in South Burlington?
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Written by Michael Johnson, MS, CCM
Career Analyst
Michael has 10 years of experience in construction management. He specializes in project scheduling and cost control. He works with a mid-sized general contracting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new construction management graduates. A 3.42% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in South Burlington. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for South Burlington is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.42%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for construction managers (SOC 11-9021).
Compiled and verified by Michael Johnson, MS, CCM, a licensed construction manager with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov