Welder Salary in Tampa
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Welding · COL Index: 101
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $24,815 | $24,569 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $31,390 | $31,079 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $41,466 | $41,055 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $52,471 | $51,951 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $59,100 | $58,515 |
What Welders Make in Tampa
A welder in Tampa, FL earns a median salary of $41,466 per year. The $34,285 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Tampa's cost-of-living index of 101 means that $41,466 here has the same purchasing power as $41,055 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Tampa a solid market for take-home pay.
Welders in Tampa typically complete a 3-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($24,815) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $41,466 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.