Crane Operator Salary in Aberdeen, South Dakota
The median crane operator salary in Aberdeen, SD is $54,054 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 4.5% below the South Dakota state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Aberdeen: What to Expect (2026)
Aberdeen offers a median crane operator salary of $54,054, which is $2,574 below the South Dakota state average of $56,628. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Aberdeen pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Aberdeen's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $54,054 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $64,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Aberdeen an attractive option for crane operators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for crane operators in Aberdeen spans from $33,600 at the 10th percentile to $84,000 at the 90th percentile — a $50,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,280, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,800. Aberdeen is a smaller market (pop. 28,324), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Crane Operator Salary in Aberdeen by Experience
In Aberdeen, an entry-level crane operator earns around $35,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Aberdeen, SD
| Percentile | Aberdeen |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,000 |
| Median (50th) | $54,054 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Aberdeen
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Aberdeen and the surrounding South Dakota 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 Aberdeen may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Aberdeen
Browse open crane operator positions in Aberdeen, SD: