Crane Operator Salary in Kansas City, Kansas
The median crane operator salary in Kansas City, KS is $56,628 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 1.1% above the Kansas state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Kansas City: What to Expect (2026)
Kansas City offers a median crane operator salary of $56,628, which is $643 above the Kansas state average of $55,985. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Kansas City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Kansas City's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $56,628 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $64,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Kansas City an attractive option for crane operators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for crane operators in Kansas City spans from $35,200 at the 10th percentile to $88,000 at the 90th percentile — a $52,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,960, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $83,600. With a population of 156,607, Kansas City is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Crane Operator Salary in Kansas City by Experience
In Kansas City, an entry-level crane operator earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $83,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Kansas City, KS
| Percentile | Kansas City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,000 |
| Median (50th) | $56,628 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Kansas Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Kansas City
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Kansas City and the surrounding Kansas 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 Kansas City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Kansas City
Browse open crane operator positions in Kansas City, KS: