One of the most common questions people ask when considering a career in construction is: “How much does a general contractor make?” Whether you’re exploring this as a career path or hiring one for a project, understanding the earning potential is key.

In this guide, we’ll break down general contractor salaries by experience, location, business structure, and type of work. We’ll also explore factors that influence earnings and what you can expect as a full-time or self-employed contractor.

What Is a General Contractor?

A general contractor is responsible for managing construction projects from beginning to end. They oversee subcontractors, manage budgets, source materials, and ensure work is done on time and to code. Because of the wide range of responsibilities, compensation can vary widely depending on skill level, project scope, and business approach.

Looking to Grow Your Earnings as a Contractor?

At London General Contractor, we’re always looking to partner with skilled professionals. Contact us today to learn how you can be part of our expanding network.

Average General Contractor Salary in 2025

General contractor earnings vary based on region, industry demand, and whether the contractor is employed or self-employed. Here’s a rough breakdown of average salaries in the U.S. and U.K. as of 2025:

🇺🇸 United States:
Experience Level	Average Annual Salary
Entry-Level (0–2 yrs)	$50,000 – $65,000
Mid-Level (3–7 yrs)	$70,000 – $95,000
Experienced (8+ yrs)	$100,000 – $150,000+
Self-Employed GCs	$80,000 – $250,000+
🇬🇧 United Kingdom:
Experience Level	Average Annual Salary
Entry-Level	£30,000 – £40,000
Mid-Level	£45,000 – £65,000
Experienced	£70,000 – £100,000+
Self-Employed GCs	£60,000 – £150,000+

Factors That Affect a General Contractor’s Income

Several key factors influence how much a general contractor can earn:

1. Location

Urban areas with high construction demand (like New Jersey, New York, London, or Los Angeles) typically offer higher pay due to project size and cost of living.

2. Experience and Reputation

Contractors with strong portfolios, solid client references, and many years in the field command premium rates.

3. Type of Projects

Residential work often pays less but comes with lower risk.

Commercial and government contracts tend to offer higher returns but also greater complexity and responsibility.

4. Business Structure

Independent GCs who own their own companies often earn significantly more than those working as salaried employees—especially if they manage multiple projects simultaneously.

5. Licensing and Certifications

Licensed contractors with safety and project management certifications (such as OSHA or LEED) are often more in demand and able to charge higher rates.

Hourly vs. Project-Based Pay

General contractors may charge clients in several ways:

Hourly: $35–$125/hour depending on the region and scope

Fixed Contract: Based on total project size, often 10%–20% of total construction costs

Per Square Foot: For larger commercial or residential developments

The project-based method is more common for seasoned contractors managing complete builds or renovations.

How to Increase Your Earning Potential as a GC

If you’re aiming to boost your income as a general contractor, here are some proven strategies:

Specialize in high-demand services (e.g., green building, luxury remodels)

Obtain advanced certifications (e.g., Certified Construction Manager)

Expand your network of subcontractors for quicker turnaround

Offer design-build services for full-service contracting

Improve client communication and project transparency to drive referrals

Is It Worth Becoming a General Contractor?

Yes—if you enjoy managing projects, solving problems, and working in a hands-on environment, being a general contractor can be highly rewarding both professionally and financially. With the right experience and business sense, it’s possible to build a six-figure income and even scale your own contracting company.

Conclusion

So, how much does a general contractor make? It depends—but the potential is substantial. With the right mix of experience, licensing, and business acumen, general contractors can earn competitive salaries and enjoy the flexibility of working on a wide variety of projects.