Pipefitter Salary Guide 2026
Salary by Experience Level
Learning the trade under supervision. Assisting journeymen.
Taking on more complex tasks. Usually at 60-80% of journeyman rate.
Fully licensed. Can work independently on complex piping systems.
Lead crews on industrial projects. Coordinate with other trades.
Manage large projects or run your own contracting business.
Salary by State
Top Paying States
Lower Paying States
Note: High-salary states often have higher costs of living. Consider local cost of living when comparing salaries.
Top Paying Metro Areas
Factors Affecting Pipefitter Salary
Union vs. Non-Union: UA pipefitters earn significantly more with excellent benefits
Industry: Nuclear, pharmaceutical, and oil/gas work commands premium pay
Travel: Willing to travel for turnarounds and shutdowns increases earnings
Certifications: Welding certifications (ASME, AWS) open higher-paying opportunities
Job Outlook
Employment of pipefitters is projected to grow 5% over the next decade. Infrastructure investment, manufacturing growth, and industrial maintenance ensure steady demand. Skilled pipefitters with welding certifications remain in high demand.
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Salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. Data reflects national and state-level statistics and may not reflect local market conditions.