Welder Salary in Houston
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 96
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $33,237 | $34,622 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $39,507 | $41,153 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $51,959 | $54,124 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $63,015 | $65,641 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $77,462 | $80,690 |
What Welders Make in Houston
A welder in Houston, TX earns a median salary of $51,959 per year. The $44,225 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Houston's cost-of-living index of 96 means that $51,959 here has the same purchasing power as $54,124 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Houston a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Houston typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($33,237) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $51,959 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.