Welder Salary in Denver
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 128
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $30,872 | $24,119 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $39,656 | $30,981 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $52,173 | $40,760 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $65,198 | $50,936 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $76,084 | $59,441 |
What Welders Make in Denver
A welder in Denver, CO earns a median salary of $52,173 per year. The $45,212 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Denver's cost-of-living index of 128 means that $52,173 here has the same purchasing power as $40,760 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, Denver offers strong demand and typically more overtime opportunities.
Welders in Denver typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($30,872) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $52,173 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.