Welder Salary in Columbus
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 93
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $30,212 | $32,486 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $35,936 | $38,641 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $46,818 | $50,342 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $56,556 | $60,813 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $67,670 | $72,763 |
What Welders Make in Columbus
A welder in Columbus, OH earns a median salary of $46,818 per year. The $37,458 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Columbus's cost-of-living index of 93 means that $46,818 here has the same purchasing power as $50,342 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Columbus a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Columbus typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($30,212) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $46,818 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.