Georgia, October 15, 2025
A recent study reveals that Georgia ranks third worst in the U.S. for women’s pay in the construction industry, emphasizing the ongoing gender disparity in this sector. Women in similar roles earn significantly less than their male counterparts, highlighting the need for policy reforms to address these inequalities. Advocacy groups are calling for urgent actions to remedy this systemic issue, aiming to create a more equitable work environment for women in construction.
Atlanta, Georgia – Gender Wage Disparity in Construction Industry
Georgia ranks third worst in the U.S. for women’s pay in the construction industry, according to a recent study. This significant disparity underscores ongoing gender inequality challenges within the sector, where women earn substantially less than their male counterparts for similar roles. Advocacy groups are calling for policy reforms to address this pressing issue.
Study Findings
The study highlights that women in Georgia’s construction industry earn considerably less than men for comparable positions. This wage gap persists despite the industry’s growth and the increasing demand for skilled labor. The disparity is particularly pronounced in management and leadership roles, where women are underrepresented and underpaid.
Industry Context
Despite the construction industry’s expansion, women remain significantly underrepresented. In 2023, women accounted for only 11.3% of construction industry employees in Georgia, slightly above the national average of 11.1%. This low representation is mirrored by low enrollment rates among female students in technical colleges across the state. For instance, in 2017, only 836 out of 10,730 students enrolled in construction-related courses were female.
Economic Implications
The wage disparity has broader economic implications. A 2022 study found that 44% of construction workers’ families in Georgia are enrolled in at least one safety net program, costing taxpayers nearly $400 million annually. This suggests that low wages in the industry are leading to increased reliance on public assistance.
Call for Policy Reforms
Advocacy groups are urging policymakers to implement reforms aimed at closing the gender wage gap in the construction industry. Proposed measures include promoting equal pay for equal work, increasing support for women entering the field, and addressing systemic barriers that contribute to wage disparities.
What is the current gender wage gap in Georgia’s construction industry?
Georgia ranks third worst in the U.S. for women’s pay in the construction industry, according to a recent study. This significant disparity underscores ongoing gender inequality challenges within the sector, where women earn substantially less than their male counterparts for similar roles. Advocacy groups are calling for policy reforms to address this pressing issue.
How does Georgia’s construction industry compare to the national average in terms of female employment?
In 2023, women accounted for only 11.3% of construction industry employees in Georgia, slightly above the national average of 11.1%. This low representation is mirrored by low enrollment rates among female students in technical colleges across the state. For instance, in 2017, only 836 out of 10,730 students enrolled in construction-related courses were female.
What are the economic implications of the wage disparity in Georgia’s construction industry?
A 2022 study found that 44% of construction workers’ families in Georgia are enrolled in at least one safety net program, costing taxpayers nearly $400 million annually. This suggests that low wages in the industry are leading to increased reliance on public assistance.
What measures are being proposed to address the gender wage gap in Georgia’s construction industry?
Advocacy groups are urging policymakers to implement reforms aimed at closing the gender wage gap in the construction industry. Proposed measures include promoting equal pay for equal work, increasing support for women entering the field, and addressing systemic barriers that contribute to wage disparities.
Key Features of the Gender Wage Disparity in Georgia’s Construction Industry
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Wage Disparity | Georgia ranks third worst in the U.S. for women’s pay in the construction industry, with women earning substantially less than their male counterparts for similar roles. |
| Female Employment Percentage | In 2023, women accounted for 11.3% of construction industry employees in Georgia, slightly above the national average of 11.1%. |
| Economic Impact | 44% of construction workers’ families in Georgia are enrolled in at least one safety net program, costing taxpayers nearly $400 million annually. |
| Proposed Reforms | Advocacy groups are calling for policy reforms to promote equal pay, support women entering the field, and address systemic barriers contributing to wage disparities. |
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Author: Construction FL News
The GEORGIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionganews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgia and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Georgia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia and the Home Builders Association of Georgia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and King & Spalding LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
