Welder Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $80,840 | |
| Hawaii | $79,000 | |
| Connecticut | $64,880 | |
| Wyoming | $63,820 | |
| Washington | $63,020 | |
| Massachusetts | $62,570 | |
| New Hampshire | $62,360 | |
| Louisiana | $62,250 | |
| National Median | $53,750 |
How to Become a Welder
Welders join metal parts using heat, working from blueprints across manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding.
Meet the education requirement
Most welders enter the field with high school diploma or equivalent. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the AWS welding certification
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $39,240 and rises toward $77,530 with experience.
Welder salary: common questions
How much does a Welder make an hour?
The median hourly wage for welders is $25.84, which works out to about $53,750 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays welders the most?
Alaska has the highest median pay for welders at $80,840 per year — 50% above the national median of $53,750.
What is the salary range for welders?
Most welders earn between $39,240 and $77,530 per year. The middle 50% earn $46,790 to $63,010, with a median of $53,750.
Is becoming a Welder a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 4% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. With a median wage of $53,750 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.