Sterling vs. Primoris: Which Construction Stock Is the Better Buy Now?

Core Insights - The U.S. infrastructure construction sector is experiencing strong demand driven by public and private investments, particularly in transportation, utilities, energy infrastructure, and mission-critical development [1][2] - Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) and Primoris Services Corporation (PRIM) are well-positioned contractors benefiting from long-term infrastructure spending trends and the complexity of large-scale, non-residential projects [1][2] Company Overview: Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. (STRL) - STRL's E-Infrastructure segment is a primary growth driver, with strong demand in data centers, manufacturing, and large-scale distribution projects [5] - The integration of CEC has expanded STRL's electrical services platform, contributing over $41 million in revenues during Q3 2025 and supporting consolidated margin performance [6] - STRL reported a signed backlog of $2.6 billion in Q3 2025, a 64% year-over-year increase, with total potential work exceeding $4 billion [8][9] Company Overview: Primoris Services Corporation (PRIM) - PRIM benefits from steady demand across its diversified Utilities and Energy segments, with solid activity in power, communications, renewables, and pipeline-related work [10] - The company raised its full-year adjusted EPS outlook to a range of $5.35 to $5.55, significantly above the previous range and the $3.87 reported in 2024 [11] - Despite strong execution, PRIM's consolidated margins declined by 120 basis points year-over-year to 10.8% due to lower contributions from higher-margin projects and increased costs [12] Financial Performance and Valuation - STRL's share price performance has outpaced PRIM and the Zacks Engineering - R and D Services industry year-to-date [14] - STRL is trading at a premium valuation compared to PRIM on a forward 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio basis [16] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for STRL's 2026 EPS indicates a 14.6% year-over-year growth, with the estimate increasing to $11.95 [19] - In contrast, PRIM's 2026 EPS estimate implies a 5.3% year-over-year improvement, but has decreased to $5.78 [21] Investment Outlook - STRL is positioned for near-term outperformance due to stronger earnings momentum and margin expansion potential, holding a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [22] - PRIM, with a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), remains stable but may need clearer margin recovery to enhance its investment appeal [22]