Welder Salary in Boston
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 152
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $33,859 | $22,276 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $45,070 | $29,651 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $56,411 | $37,113 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $68,014 | $44,746 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $84,439 | $55,552 |
What Welders Make in Boston
A welder in Boston, MA earns a median salary of $56,411 per year. The $50,580 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Boston's cost-of-living index of 152 means that $56,411 here has the same purchasing power as $37,113 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, Boston offers strong demand and typically more overtime opportunities.
Welders in Boston typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($33,859) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $56,411 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 47 (D), this trade-city combination rates as below average for earning potential relative to local living costs.