Welder Salaries in Washington — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026Washington pays welders a median wage of $61,730 per year — that's $29.68/hr based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. The state's 7,680 welders make up a meaningful portion of the regional workforce.
Welder salaries in Washington are above the national average by approximately $7,122. Washington has no state income tax.
Washington's strong economy and high demand for skilled workers drive competitive wages for welders.
Washington Welder Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Washington after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Washington has no state income tax.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Washington has no state income tax. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Washington Welder Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Washington median of $61,730.
Welder Salary by Experience — Washington
Welder Salary Trend in Washington — 2021 to 2026
5-Year DataWelder salaries in Washington have grown an estimated 13.9% over the past five years, reflecting broader workforce and economic conditions. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Washington's manufacturing and construction.
Welder Salary by City — Washington
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $68,500 | $32.93 | +11.0% | 2,688 |
| Spokane | $65,450 | $31.47 | +6.0% | 2,150 |
| Tacoma | $63,600 | $30.58 | +3.0% | 1,382 |
| Vancouver | $59,250 | $28.49 | -4.0% | 691 |
| Bellevue | $56,150 | $27.00 | -9.0% | 460 |
| Kirkland | $53,700 | $25.82 | -13.0% | 307 |
Tip: Seattle offers the highest welder salaries in Washington at $68,500/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Washington vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Washington compares favourably for welders.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Washington has no state income tax.
Welder Job Outlook in Washington
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for welders in Washington is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Washington job market. Washington's strong economy and high demand for skilled workers drive competitive wages for welders.
How to Earn More as a Welder in Washington
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a welder in Washington typically adds $50,600 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the AWS Certification (voluntary) can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Seattle pays welders $68,500/yr — +11.0% above the Washington average. Simply relocating within Washington can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Welders who specialise in manufacturing and construction typically command premium rates in Washington. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Idaho pays welders $49,190/yr — -20.3% vs Washington.
Find Welder Jobs in Washington
Live ListingsSearch current welder job vacancies in Washington:
🔍 Welder jobs in Washington — Indeed→ 🔍 Welder jobs in Washington — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Welder jobs — Seattle, WA→