This article contains information about welding salaries. We include average salary information, industries with top salaries, and different types of welding jobs along with their pay in various locations across the U.S.
Welders' Salaries on Average
The average annual pay for welders was $52,640 in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As you gain experience in the field, your pay is likely to grow even higher. In 2023, the top 10% of welders earned $72,970 or more (bls.gov).
Industries with Top Welding Salaries
The top industries for welders in 2023, plus the average pay in that industry, are as follows:
- Scheduled Air Transportation: $102,900*
- Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution: $101,200*
- Natural Gas Distribution: $98,890*
- Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing: $88,440*
- Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas: $87,180*
*industries and average pay, bls.gov
Pay for welders often varies with a worker’s experience and skill level. It may also vary by the industry chosen or the location and the size of the company.
Top Paying States for Welders
Following is a list of top-paying states for welders in 2023.
- Alaska: $79,210*
- Hawaii: $75,590*
- Wyoming: $65,730*
- Rhode Island: $63,110*
*states and average pay, bls.gov
Reference:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers, online here.
