Crane and Tower Operators Salary in New York

Crane and tower operators in New York earn the most in New York (average $116,710 a year) and the least in Albany ($107,670), across the 3 New York metro areas we cover. Statewide, BLS puts the crane and tower operators average at $115,400 and the median at $85,850 for 1,150 workers. The U.S. average for this job is $72,130.

Crane and Tower Operators average salary by city in New York

New York$116,710
Buffalo$109,610
Albany$107,670

Pay, take-home pay and cost of living

City	Average	Median	25th pct.	Take-home*	Cost of living
New York	$116,710	$100,640	$85,850	$84,981	113
Buffalo	$109,610	$74,700	$54,840	$80,412	96
Albany	$107,670	$73,010	$60,580	$79,164	100

*Average salary after federal and state taxes for a single filer; New York City (up to 3.876%) and Yonkers income taxes are not included. Cost of living: BEA price parity, U.S. = 100.

Crane and Tower Operators salary in other states

Crane and Tower Operators salary by city and state

More about pay in New York

Sources and how to read this page

Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 estimates for metropolitan areas. SOC code 53-7021.
U.S. and statewide figures: BLS OEWS national and state estimates, May 2025, every employer including rural areas.
Cost of living: Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (RPP), 2024; 100 = U.S. average.

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