Welder Salary in Atlanta
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 106
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $29,396 | $27,732 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $35,471 | $33,463 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $46,015 | $43,410 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $56,650 | $53,443 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $64,837 | $61,167 |
What Welders Make in Atlanta
A welder in Atlanta, GA earns a median salary of $46,015 per year. The $35,441 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Atlanta's cost-of-living index of 106 means that $46,015 here has the same purchasing power as $43,410 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Atlanta a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Atlanta typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($29,396) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $46,015 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 51 (D), this trade-city combination rates as below average for earning potential relative to local living costs.