Trades
Welder Salary (2025)
Welders join metal parts using heat.
$47,010
Median Annual
$23/hr
Hourly Rate
$33,000
Entry Level
$65,000
Senior Level
Salary Range
$33,000
$65,000
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.
Want to become a Welder? Browse accredited Vocational certificate programs.
Browse Programs →Welder Salary by State
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