Welder Salary in Detroit
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 89
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $30,858 | $34,672 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $36,912 | $41,474 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $49,210 | $55,292 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $59,932 | $67,339 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $76,174 | $85,589 |
What Welders Make in Detroit
A welder in Detroit, MI earns a median salary of $49,210 per year. The $45,316 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Detroit's cost-of-living index of 89 means that $49,210 here has the same purchasing power as $55,292 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Detroit a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Detroit typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($30,858) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $49,210 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 59 (C), this trade-city combination rates as average for earning potential relative to local living costs.