Welder Salary in Phoenix
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 103
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $29,397 | $28,541 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $37,960 | $36,854 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $48,956 | $47,530 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $60,076 | $58,326 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $72,350 | $70,243 |
What Welders Make in Phoenix
A welder in Phoenix, AZ earns a median salary of $48,956 per year. The $42,953 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Phoenix's cost-of-living index of 103 means that $48,956 here has the same purchasing power as $47,530 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Phoenix a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Phoenix typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($29,397) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $48,956 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 55 (C), this trade-city combination rates as average for earning potential relative to local living costs.