Welder Salary Guide 2026
Salary by Experience Level
Basic welding tasks. Learning processes. Getting certified.
Handling most welding tasks independently.
Complex work. May specialize in TIG, pipe, or structural.
Specialized work on oil/gas pipelines. Travel required.
Highly specialized. Requires commercial diving certification.
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 Welder Salary
Certifications: AWS certifications for specific processes significantly increase earnings
Industry: Aerospace, nuclear, and underwater welding pay premiums
Travel: Pipeline and construction welders who travel earn more
Overtime: Industrial and construction welding often includes overtime
Job Outlook
Employment of welders is projected to grow 3% over the next decade, slower than average. However, manufacturing reshoring and infrastructure investment are creating new opportunities. Specialized welders 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.