Welding Trade Salaries (2025)
Compare wages across 3 welding trades. National median pay, Trade Pay Scores, and 5-year growth rates.
3
Trades
$62,548
Avg Median
418,599
Total Jobs
+7.7%
5yr Growth
AutomotiveConstructionElectricalEnergyHVACHeavy EquipmentIndustrialManagementMetalworkPlumbingSpecialtyStructuralWelding
Welding Trades by Salary
| Rank | Trade | Median | Grade | 5yr Growth | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Underwater Welder | $80,828 | C | +7% | 123,225 |
| 2 | Structural Welder | $55,913 | C | +8% | 150,703 |
| 3 | Welder | $50,902 | D | +8% | 144,671 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest paying welding trade is Underwater Welder with a national median salary of $80,828. This is based on 2025 BLS occupational wage data across 30 metro areas.
There are approximately 418,599 welding trade positions across 3 occupations tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average median salary is $62,548.
Welding trades have seen an average wage growth of 7.7% over the past 5 years. This represents steady, reliable growth.
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS)
Last updated:
Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) 2025. Trades grouped by occupational category.