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Labor Cost Calculator

Estimate total labor costs with overhead burden for construction projects. Calculate from hourly rates, daily rates, or flat project costs — and see the true burdened cost including insurance, taxes, and benefits.

Labor Cost Calculator
Total Labor Cost
$5,600.00
Base wages before burden
Burdened Cost
$7,280.00
Includes 30% overhead ($1,680.00)
Effective Rate
$35.00/hr
$45.50/hr burdened
Cost per Day
$1,456.00
4 workers × 5 days

Cost Breakdown

Base Wages$5,600.00
Overhead / Burden (30%)$1,680.00
Total Burdened Cost$7,280.00
Total Hours160.0 hrs
Understanding labor burdenThe “burden rate” covers costs beyond the base wage: workers’ comp insurance, payroll taxes (FICA, FUTA, SUTA), health benefits, and other overhead. For construction, this typically adds 25–35% on top of wages. A 30% burden rate means every $1.00 in wages actually costs $1.30.
This is an estimate for budgeting purposes. Actual labor burden varies by state, trade, and employer. Consult your accountant or insurance provider for exact burden rates. Always verify local prevailing wage requirements for public projects.