Crane Operator Salary in Rhode Island
The median crane operator salary in Rhode Island is $67,568 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median of $64,350.
Crane Operator Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #13 out of 50 states for crane operator compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for crane operator pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $67,568 per year, crane operators in Rhode Island earn $3,218 more than the national median of $64,350.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning crane operator salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: crane operators at the 10th percentile earn $42,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $105,000 — a $63,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $69,498.
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for crane operators across the country.
Crane Operator Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level crane operator earns around $44,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $99,750 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,500 |
| Median (50th) | $67,568 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,000 |
Crane Operator Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for crane operators in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Crane Operator in Rhode Island
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Crane Operators who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,182 over your career trajectory.
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