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Establishing an hourly rate for excavator and operator, fair and profitable hourly rate for excavator work in Georgia isn’t just a matter of plugging numbers into a calculator—it’s an excavation of its own, unearthing layers of cost, skill, geography, and timing. And while we can’t promise it’ll be more fun than your last equipment audit, we can guarantee it’ll be more enlightening.
A mid-sized excavator in Georgia doesn’t charge by the scoop, though that would make for a memorable invoice. Instead, rates typically range from $50 to $600 per hour based on machine size. Add a skilled human behind the controls, and you’re looking at a total range of $100 to $250 per hour once everything is factored in—fuel, insurance, maintenance, transportation, and the occasional existential cost of weather delays.
At Bucktown Grading and Construction, we turn Georgia’s rugged earth into your next masterpiece—on time, on budget, and with a wink of Southern know-how.
Let’s dig deeper.
Hiring a skilled excavator operator in Georgia generally runs around $22 to $24 per hour, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and ZipRecruiter. In other words, a little more than your average Uber ride—but they can move a whole lot more than luggage.
These professionals don’t just hop in the cab and hope for the best. They bring expertise, safety knowledge, and the muscle memory that only comes from years of handling heavy iron. Not something you want to skimp on.
The machine’s hourly rate depends on what you’re running:
These rates, from the FEMA Schedule of Equipment Rates, include fuel, maintenance, and depreciation. Kind of like an all-inclusive vacation, but louder—and with more dirt.
When you combine the operator and machine, you’re generally looking at:
Yes, that’s a range. But so is the terrain. Your cost depends on the machine size, the job’s complexity, and how much Georgia red clay you plan to disrupt.
Georgia’s a bit of a unicorn: no state-mandated prevailing wage laws, but plenty of regional quirks. What you’ll pay in Atlanta might differ from rates in rural Peach County. Local rental outfits like Yancey Bros. or Bobcat of Atlanta are your best bet for precise quotes, because sometimes it’s better to talk to a human than guess off a national chart.
Bigger machines bring bigger muscle—and bigger price tags. For example:
Need to operate in tight city spaces like Atlanta? Reduced or zero-tail swing models cost 10–15% more, but your crew (and nearby infrastructure) will thank you.
Like bulk discounts at Costco, the longer you rent, the more you save:
Short-term projects pay for flexibility. Long-term jobs pay for planning.
In Georgia, you get what you pay for:
Add $2–$5/hour if the operator comes certified (and well-caffeinated).
Atlanta pays best, and it’s not just because of the traffic:
Blame—or thank—the local cost of living and construction demand.
Major players like United Rentals tend to set the tone—and the premium. But don’t be shy about shopping locally. Smaller outfits often offer better deals (and fewer phone trees).
Rates aren’t carved in stone:
Also Read: Land Clearing Price Per Acre: Factors That Affect Costs in 2025
Excavator and operator rates in Georgia range from $100–$250/hour, depending on machine, operator, location, and timing. To stay sharp:
And if you’re budgeting for next year? Account for a projected 12% wage increase over five years. Because the only thing moving faster than an excavator on payday is the price of skilled labor in Georgia.
Now you’re ready to price like a pro. Or at least not get blindsided by your next rental invoice.
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At Bucktown Grading and Construction, we don’t just move dirt—we shape the future. Our commitment to precision and quality ensures that every grading and construction project is built to last, supporting the growth of Georgia’s landscapes and communities. From the beginning, our focus has been on delivering exceptional workmanship while fostering strong relationships with our clients.
We take a personalized approach to every project, understanding that no two jobs are the same. By tailoring our solutions to meet specific needs, we ensure that every site is prepared with accuracy and care. Our dedication to excellence means we don’t just complete projects—we create long-term value.
At the heart of our work is a client-first mindset. We listen, we build, and we deliver, always putting your vision and priorities at the forefront. More than construction, we’re laying the foundation for progress, ensuring that every project contributes to a stronger and more developed future. Let’s build something great—together.
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