Crane Operator Salary in Hilo, Hawaii
The median crane operator salary in Hilo, HI is $97,812 per year, which is 52.0% above the national median and 10.6% below the Hawaii state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Hilo: What to Expect (2026)
Hilo offers a median crane operator salary of $97,812, which is $11,583 below the Hawaii state average of $109,395. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Hilo pays above average for this role.
However, Hilo's cost of living index is 152%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $97,812 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $64,350. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Hilo should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for crane operators in Hilo spans from $60,800 at the 10th percentile to $152,000 at the 90th percentile — a $91,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $63,840, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $144,400. Hilo is a smaller market (pop. 45,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Crane Operator Salary in Hilo by Experience
In Hilo, an entry-level crane operator earns around $63,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $144,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 152% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Hilo, HI
| Percentile | Hilo |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,000 |
| Median (50th) | $97,812 |
| 75th Percentile | $124,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $152,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Hawaii Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Hilo
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Hilo and the surrounding Hawaii area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Hilo may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Hilo
Browse open crane operator positions in Hilo, HI: