Welder Salary in St. Louis
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 90
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $30,411 | $33,790 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $38,697 | $42,997 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $51,031 | $56,701 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $60,423 | $67,137 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $79,039 | $87,821 |
What Welders Make in St. Louis
A welder in St. Louis, MO earns a median salary of $51,031 per year. The $48,628 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
St. Louis's cost-of-living index of 90 means that $51,031 here has the same purchasing power as $56,701 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes St. Louis a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in St. Louis typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($30,411) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $51,031 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 61 (C), this trade-city combination rates as average for earning potential relative to local living costs.