Welder Salary in Portland
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 130
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $30,831 | $23,716 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $41,769 | $32,130 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $51,629 | $39,715 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $61,124 | $47,018 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $77,140 | $59,338 |
What Welders Make in Portland
A welder in Portland, OR earns a median salary of $51,629 per year. The $46,309 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Portland's cost-of-living index of 130 means that $51,629 here has the same purchasing power as $39,715 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, Portland offers strong demand and typically more overtime opportunities.
Welders in Portland typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($30,831) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $51,629 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 49 (D), this trade-city combination rates as below average for earning potential relative to local living costs.