Best States for Welders (Highest Paying)
Where you work changes welder pay more than almost any other factor. California leads at $61,500 — roughly 18% above the national median of $52,000.
Top 10 highest paying states
Ranked by median annual salary for welders:
- 1. California — $61,500 median
- 2. New York — $59,500 median
- 3. Massachusetts — $59,000 median
- 4. Washington — $58,000 median
- 5. New Jersey — $56,500 median
- 6. Colorado — $54,000 median
- 7. Illinois — $53,000 median
- 8. Pennsylvania — $51,000 median
- 9. Texas — $50,500 median
- 10. Arizona — $50,000 median
Why pay varies so much by state
Three things drive the spread: local demand, licensing rules and cost of labor. States with strict licensing and high demand tend to pay a premium because the supply of qualified workers is limited.
Metro areas inside a state can differ by another 15–25%, so treat state medians as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Salary versus cost of living
High-paying coastal states usually carry high housing costs. A $61,500 salary in California can leave you with less disposable income than a mid-tier state paying $54,600.
Run the numbers on rent, state income tax and commute before you decide to relocate.
Frequently asked questions
Which state pays welders the most?
California, with a median salary of $61,500 per year.
What is the average welder salary in the US?
The national median is $52,000 per year.
See full welder salary data
Compare pay by state and experience level with our welder salary page or the salary calculator.