Women Are Reshaping Real Estate and Construction. The Numbers Prove It!

For decades, real estate development and construction have been male-dominated industries. But the landscape is shifting, and the data tells a compelling story.

Women in Construction: Record Numbers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women now represent 14% of the construction workforce, the highest share on record. This milestone reflects sustained progress over the past several years.

Since January 2020, the female construction workforce has grown more than 21%, compared to less than 8% for men. In 2025 alone, women filled 12,000 of the 14,000 construction jobs added that year, according to CBIZ.

These numbers matter. With the construction industry needing to attract 349,000 new workers in 2026 alone, per Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), recruiting and retaining women is not just the right thing to do. It is a business imperative.

Women in Real Estate: Progress and Gaps

In real estate, women have made significant inroads. According to the National Association of REALTORS 2025 Member Profile, women now make up 63% of all REALTORS nationwide.

But representation at the top still lags. According to CREW Network and MIT, women hold just 9% of C-suite roles in commercial real estate. The Urban Land Institute reports that while women make up 25% of its membership, only 14% are CEOs.

Closing this leadership gap represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the industry.

The Business Case for Diversity

The case for change is clear. Research from McKinsey shows that companies with greater gender diversity are 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability.

Construction also offers strong earning potential for women. The gender pay gap in construction is just 4.7%, compared to 17% across all industries, making it one of the most equitable sectors for compensation.

Our Perspective at BHI

At BHI, we have seen firsthand how women strengthen project teams, bring fresh perspectives, and deliver results. Whether as developers, architects, engineers, lenders, or owner's representatives, women are essential to building successful projects and stronger communities.

This Women's History Month, we honor the women shaping our industry and encourage organizations to invest in the next generation of female leaders.

Want to learn more about BHI's approach to building diverse, high-performing project teams? Email BHI at office@bhibuilds.com.

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