Welder Salary in Raleigh
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 100
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $31,755 | $31,755 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $39,139 | $39,139 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $49,553 | $49,553 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $59,237 | $59,237 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $74,709 | $74,709 |
What Welders Make in Raleigh
A welder in Raleigh, NC earns a median salary of $49,553 per year. The $42,954 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Raleigh's cost-of-living index of 100 means that $49,553 here has the same purchasing power as $49,553 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Raleigh a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Raleigh typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($31,755) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $49,553 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 57 (C), this trade-city combination rates as average for earning potential relative to local living costs.