Welder Salary (2025)
Welders join metal parts using heat.
The median Welder salary is $47,010 per year ($23/hour). Entry-level Welders earn around $33,000 while experienced Welders earn $65,000 or more annually.
Welder salaries vary based on specialization, with underwater welding and industrial pipeline welding typically commanding the highest wages, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Regional factors also play a role; states with booming oil and construction industries, like Texas and North Dakota, tend to offer higher salaries, reflecting demand and cost of living adjustments.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $47,010 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Welders
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $67,000 | +43% |
| California | $65,000 | +38% |
| New York | $60,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $59,000 | +26% |
| Massachusetts | $59,000 | +26% |
| New Jersey | $56,000 | +19% |
| Connecticut | $55,000 | +17% |
| Washington | $54,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Welder
Most Welder positions require: Vocational certificate. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Welder Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Welder salary?
The median Welder salary is $47,010 per year, which works out to approximately $23/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Welder make?
Entry-level Welders typically earn around $33,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Welder's salary?
Experienced Welders can earn up to $65,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Welder?
Most Welder positions require: Vocational certificate.