Somewhat Resilient
Last Update: 10/7/2026
AI Resilience Score for Cost Estimators:
47.0%
Median Score
Meaningful human contribution
Measures the parts of the occupation that still require a human touch. This score averages data from up to four AI exposure datasets, focusing on the role’s resilience against automation.
Med
Long-term employer demand
Predicts the health of the job market for this role through 2034. Using Bureau of Labor Statistics data, it balances projected annual job openings (60%) with overall employment growth (40%).
Med
Sustained economic opportunity
Measures future earning potential and career flexibility. This score is a blend of total projected labor income (67%) and the role’s inherent ability to adapt to economic and technological shifts (33%).
Med
This reflects the reliability of your score based on the number of data sources available for this career and how closely those sources agree on the outlook. A higher confidence means more consistent evidence from labor experts and AI models.
Most data sources align, with only minor variation. This is a well-supported result.
AI Resilience Report forCost Estimators
$78,740 median salary•17,600 annual openings•SOC Code: 13-1051.00
Cost Estimators are somewhat less resilient to AI impacts than most occupations, according to our analysis of 7 sources.
Cost estimating is "Somewhat Resilient" because AI is already handling a real and growing chunk of the routine work, like pulling historical cost data and measuring drawings, with industry predictions suggesting AI could automate 30 to 50 percent of repetitive tasks in this role by 2028. That's a meaningful shift, and it means the job itself is changing, not disappearing.
Learn more about how you can thrive in this position
This role is somewhat resilient
Cost estimating is "Somewhat Resilient" because AI is already handling a real and growing chunk of the routine work, like pulling historical cost data and measuring drawings, with industry predictions suggesting AI could automate 30 to 50 percent of repetitive tasks in this role by 2028. That's a meaningful shift, and it means the job itself is changing, not disappearing.
Read full analysisAnalysis of current AI resilience
Cost Estimators
Updated quarterly
How can Cost Estimators prepare for AI?
Latest AI news for Cost Estimators
These articles highlight the transformative impact of AI on cost estimating careers. For instance, they discuss how AI tools can enhance construction estimating accuracy and efficiency, allowing cost estimators to make more informed decisions. Additionally, insights into AI's role in bid preparation and resource allocation emphasize the importance of adapting to new technologies. By embracing these innovations, aspiring cost estimators can build resilience in their careers, positioning themselves at the forefront of industry advancements and improving their job prospects in a tech-driven landscape.
ABC Eastern Pennsylvania Examines AI’s Impact on Construction Estimating
www.constructionowners.com • 9/13/2026
ABC Eastern Pennsylvania examines how AI is changing construction estimating, bid preparation, cost analysis and preconstruction workflows.
Applications of machine learning and artificial intelligence in construction project cost prediction: a scientometric analysis and qualitative review
www.frontiersin.org • 5/22/2026
Accurate construction project cost prediction directly affects investment decision-making, resource allocation efficiency, and project risk management.
How AI and Automation Are Supercharging Construction Estimating
www.autodesk.com • 3/25/2026
AI and automation are transforming construction estimating. We look at the top benefits, tools, and tips to embracing innovation and change.
The Artificial Intelligence Cost Estimation Framework You Should Be Using in 2026
medium.datadriveninvestor.com • 2/26/2026
The most dangerous question in AI right now that Founders and CFOs ask but AI Engineers avoid: How much does it cost to build an AI system?
Cost and Time Estimation for AI-Powered Banking App Development
vocal.media • 12/23/2025
Banking applications have moved far beyond simple balance checks and fund transfers. Customers now expect smart features such as personalized financial...
More Career Info
Career: Cost Estimators
They figure out how much a project will cost by looking at materials, labor, and time, helping companies plan and budget effectively.
Parent Careers
Employment & Wage Data
Median Wage
$78,740
Jobs (2025)
226,400
Growth (2025-35)
-3.1%
Annual Openings
17,600
Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2025-2035
Task-Level AI Resilience Scores
AI-generated estimates of task resilience over the next 3 years
1
Confer with engineers, architects, owners, contractors, and subcontractors on changes and adjustments to cost estimates.
2
Consult with clients, vendors, personnel in other departments, or construction foremen to discuss and formulate estimates and resolve issues.
3
Establish and maintain tendering process, and conduct negotiations.
4
Visit site and record information about access, drainage and topography, and availability of utility services.
5
Assess cost effectiveness of products, projects or services, tracking actual costs relative to bids as the project develops.
6
Analyze blueprints and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
7
Conduct special studies to develop and establish standard hour and related cost data or to reduce cost.
Tasks are ranked by their AI resilience, with the most resilient tasks shown first. Core tasks are essential functions of this occupation, while supplemental tasks provide additional context.
