Labor Costs & Productivity in United States
What does manufacturing labor really cost in United States? It depends on the total cost of each worker — wages plus non-wage costs — and on the output each worker delivers. Industry Economics & Competitiveness reports both, monthly, for United States's manufacturing and construction sectors.
The figures shown are illustrative and represent a historical sample. For up-to-date monthly labor cost and productivity benchmarks in United States — along with industrial costs and manufacturing competitiveness data across 33 countries — subscribe to Intratec Industry Economics & Competitiveness.
About the Labor Benchmarks. Each monthly release reports three categories of labor data for United States: total employer cost (wages plus non-wage costs) for manufacturing and construction sectors, output per worker for the same sectors, and role-specific wages for chemical plant operators and supervisors at typical plant staffing levels. The same methodology produces comparable benchmarks for every country in the program, with a 10-year monthly history alongside the current values.
Built for any analysis where American labor costs need a defensible number.
Beyond Labor Costs
Labor cost and productivity factors are part of the Industry Economics & Competitiveness subscription — a monthly program benchmarking commodities manufacturing competitiveness across 33 countries, including United States.
33 Key Countries
Country-by-country monthly reports covering major industrial hubs — USA, China, Germany, Japan, Brazil, India, and more.
7 Industries Covered
Industry-specific rankings across olefins, aromatics, alcohols & organic acids, polymers, fertilizers, inorganic chemicals, and metals.
Reference Datasets
Country-level cost inputs for plant projects — labor costs, utility prices, construction indexes, and location factors.
Monthly Updates
Fresh data every month, always reflecting the most recent period available, with short-term forecasts on selected series.
Frequently Asked Questions
About United States's Manufacturing Industry
The United States boasts the largest and most diverse economy in the world, driven by a combination of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and a highly developed industrial base. The U.S. manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of the economy, playing a crucial role in generating employment, driving exports, and sustaining economic growth. Key industries include aerospace, automotive, electronics, chemicals, and machinery, all of which contribute significantly to the nation's GDP.
U.S. manufacturing is characterized by its advanced technology, high productivity, and a strong emphasis on research and development. The sector benefits from a skilled and adaptable workforce, a vast domestic market, and world-class infrastructure. The country's leading position in innovation is further supported by significant investments in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing techniques, which continue to propel the sector forward.
As the United States continues to lead in areas like digital transformation, automation, and sustainable practices, its manufacturing industry remains critical to the nation's economic strength and global influence. The ongoing focus on innovation and technological advancement ensures that the U.S. will maintain its position as a dominant force in the global economy for years to come.