Welder Salary.
Across 83 U.S. cities.
$52,000
national median salary
$40,000 to $68,000. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$74,000
San Jose, CA
Best Purchasing Power
$55,000
Des Moines, IA
Lowest Paying
$39,000
Charleston, WV
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
The average Welder salary in the United States is $52,000 in 2026, with the full range spanning $40,000 at the 25th percentile to $68,000 at the 75th. San Jose pays the most at $74,000, while Des Moines offers the best purchasing power after cost-of-living adjustments. Certification type drives the largest pay differences.
Welder salary by city
Skills that increase Welder pay
The skills below command measurable salary premiums for Welders based on job posting data. Learning the top skill here could add $7,280 to your annual compensation.
≈ +$7,280 per year
≈ +$6,760 per year
≈ +$6,240 per year
≈ +$5,720 per year
≈ +$5,720 per year
≈ +$5,200 per year
≈ +$5,200 per year
≈ +$4,680 per year
What you should know
Certification type drives the largest pay differences. TIG and pipe welders earn 20 to 35% more than MIG welders doing structural or production work. Welders certified for exotic alloys like titanium, Inconel, or stainless steel in aerospace or nuclear applications earn peak rates. Travel welding and shutdown work offer premium per diem packages.
Welding apprentices start at $30,000 to $36,000, advancing to journeyman welder at $40,000 to $55,000 in three to four years. Certified pipe welders earn $60,000 to $80,000, while welding inspectors (CWI) and supervisors reach $75,000 to $100,000 in industrial settings.
Per diem payments for travel welders add $75 to $150 daily, potentially adding $18,000 to $35,000 annually. Union welders receive pension and health benefits worth $10,000 to $18,000. Tool and safety equipment allowances of $500 to $1,500 are standard.