Welder Salary by State (2025 BLS Data Guide)
Welding is one of the most versatile skilled trades in America — and one where certifications can dramatically change your earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median annual wage of $47,010 for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers. But that average hides enormous variation: underwater welders and certified pipe welders in the energy sector routinely earn $80,000–$150,000+.
Welder Salary by State (2025)
| State | Annual Mean Wage | Hourly Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $73,410 | $35.29 |
| Hawaii | $68,920 | $33.13 |
| North Dakota | $63,840 | $30.69 |
| Wyoming | $62,510 | $30.05 |
| Illinois | $60,120 | $28.90 |
| Washington | $59,780 | $28.74 |
| California | $57,430 | $27.61 |
| Nevada | $56,890 | $27.35 |
| Minnesota | $55,640 | $26.75 |
| New Jersey | $54,810 | $26.35 |
| Texas | $50,920 | $24.48 |
| Louisiana | $53,170 | $25.56 |
| Colorado | $50,640 | $24.35 |
| Oregon | $54,320 | $26.11 |
| Michigan | $49,870 | $23.98 |
| Ohio | $48,540 | $23.34 |
| Pennsylvania | $48,120 | $23.13 |
| Florida | $45,310 | $21.78 |
| Georgia | $44,590 | $21.44 |
| North Carolina | $43,820 | $21.07 |
| Tennessee | $43,210 | $20.77 |
| Mississippi | $41,340 | $19.87 |
| Virginia | $47,650 | $22.91 |
| Arizona | $46,210 | $22.21 |
| New York | $58,940 | $28.34 |
Welder Salary by Certification & Specialty
| Welding Type / Specialty | Annual Salary Range | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level MIG/Stick Welder | $35,000 – $45,000 | High volume, lower pay |
| TIG Welder (Certified) | $48,000 – $68,000 | High — precision industries |
| Pipe Welder (Certified) | $60,000 – $90,000 | Very high — energy & construction |
| Structural Welder (AWS D1.1) | $55,000 – $80,000 | High — infrastructure |
| Aerospace Welder | $65,000 – $95,000 | Specialized, strict QC |
| Nuclear Welder | $75,000 – $110,000 | Limited openings, top pay |
| Underwater Welder (Commercial Diver) | $80,000 – $150,000+ | High risk, very high reward |
| Welding Inspector (CWI) | $65,000 – $95,000 | Growing with infrastructure spend |
The Oil, Gas & Pipeline Premium
Welders working in the oil and gas industry — particularly pipeline welders and offshore rig welders — earn significantly more than shop or manufacturing welders. Factors that drive this premium include:
- Remote work locations requiring travel and per diem pay
- Strict certification requirements (API 1104 pipe welding standard)
- Safety-critical work that demands precision and accountability
- Long work schedules (often 60–84 hours/week during project phases)
A pipeline welder working 60+ hours per week on a major transmission pipeline project can earn $100,000–$150,000 in a single year, though the work is often seasonal or project-based.
Welding Job Outlook
The BLS projects 3% growth for welders through 2033 — below average overall, but this masks sector-specific trends. Infrastructure investment (bridges, pipelines, manufacturing reshoring) is creating strong demand for certified welders. The AWS reports a shortage of qualified welders, particularly in pipe welding and structural welding specialties.
How to Maximize Your Welding Salary
- Start with trade school, not just trial by fire: 6–18 month welding programs teach multiple processes (MIG, TIG, stick, flux-core) and prepare you for certification exams.
- Stack your AWS certifications: Each additional certification process you pass opens higher-paying job opportunities.
- Move toward pipe welding: API pipe welding certification is the single biggest pay jump available to welders.
- Consider welding inspection: CWI credential combines field knowledge with inspection authority — great option for welders who want to reduce physical strain while increasing pay.
- Target industries, not just job boards: Shipbuilding, aerospace, nuclear, and oil & gas all pay premium wages for certified welders.
See the Welder Career Guide for training programs and certification paths. Compare with the Ironworker Salary Guide for related structural metalwork careers.
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