New York Building Congress releases report reflecting on regrowth and diversity

Manhattan, NY “New York’s construction workforce is more diverse, younger, and earning more than ever before, while continuing its steady recovery toward pre-pandemic levels,” according to a new report released by the New York Building Congress. The findings from the “2026 Construction Outlook Update: Workforce Snapshot” highlight an industry that is expanding opportunity for workers from a wide range of backgrounds, languages, and experiences, reinforcing construction as a key pathway to economic mobility across New York.

Statewide, the construction workforce grew to 568,000 workers in 2024, representing a 97.9% recovery to pre-pandemic levels. While the industry is projected to approach full recovery by 2027, the report notes that economic uncertainty — including shifting federal funding priorities and tariff policies — continues to pose challenges for workforce growth and predictability.

At the same time, the data shows progress across key workforce trends: more young people are entering the field, diversity continues to increase, and earnings are rising across the industry.

“The construction workforce is at the heart of New York’s economic strength, building the infrastructure and spaces that keep our city moving forward,” said Carlo Scissura, Esq., president and CEO of the New York Building Congress. “This year’s report shows an industry that is recovering and evolving, creating opportunities for a broader and more diverse workforce while delivering strong wages and long-term career pathways. At the New York Building Congress, we will continue advocating for policies and initiatives to grow and strengthen this workforce – building a better New York in the process.”

Key Statistics: 

The statewide construction workforce reached 568,000 workers in 2024, marking a 97.9% recovery to pre-pandemic levels. New York City’s workforce grew to approximately 253,000 workers, accounting for 45% of the statewide total.

In 2024, 60.2% of construction workers statewide reported household incomes above $100,000, with 48% earning more than $125,000. In New York City, 59.7% reported incomes above $100,000 and 47.1% above $125,000.

Statewide, 45% of construction workers identify as non-White. In New York City, this share rises to 66%, with no single racial or ethnic group comprising a majority. Hispanic workers represent the largest share in NYC at 44%.

The share of workers under 25 continues to rise, reaching 8% statewide and 6.2% in New York City in 2024, reflecting a growing pipeline of younger talent entering the industry.

Women now make up 9.2% of the statewide construction workforce and 8.7% in New York City, with higher levels of educational attainment and strong representation in higher income brackets.

Key Recommendations from the report include: 

Addressing the “brain drain” of international engineering graduates being forced to leave the U.S. (91%) by expanding immigration pathways for U.S.-educated talent, including establishing a “critical infrastructure” H-1B visa exemption and fast-track approval process for key construction and engineering roles.

Increasing investment in workforce development programs while also expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) and STEAM programs to better prepare students for careers in architecture, engineering, and construction.

Reducing barriers to entry by lowering costs associated with required certifications and training programs, particularly OSHA-related coursework, making it easier for workers to enter and advance within the industry.

Continuing outreach and engagement efforts to retain and grow the next generation of industry leaders, particularly by uplifting initiatives like the Building Congress’s Young Professionals Committee.

Increasing Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) participation by developing a centralized, one-stop platform for firms to access and bid on public projects statewide.

Supporting working families, including incentivizing the expansion of childcare hours to accommodate the non-traditional schedules common across the construction workforce.