Trades & Labor New Jersey (NJ) Rank #7 of 50

Ironworker Salary in New Jersey

The median ironworker salary in New Jersey is $66,125 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $57,500.

Median Salary
$66,125
vs National
+$8,625
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Ironworker Salary Overview in New Jersey (2026)

New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states for ironworker compensation. This places New Jersey in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for ironworkers seeking high pay. At $66,125 per year, ironworkers in New Jersey earn $8,625 more than the national median of $57,500.

It's worth noting that New Jersey's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $66,125 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $57,500.

The salary spread in New Jersey is significant: ironworkers at the 10th percentile earn $41,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $105,800 — a $64,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Jersey for this role is Jersey City, where the median reaches $73,600.

Nationally, ironworker employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for ironworkers across the country.

Ironworker Salary in New Jersey by Experience

In New Jersey, an entry-level ironworker earns around $43,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The cost of living index in New Jersey is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,700
+$5,700 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$66,700
+$8,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$101,200
+$13,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in New Jersey

Percentile NJ Salary
10th Percentile $41,400
25th Percentile $50,600
Median (50th) $66,125
75th Percentile $86,250
90th Percentile $105,800

Ironworker Salary by City in New Jersey

The largest employment areas for ironworkers in New Jersey include Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Elizabeth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Ironworker in New Jersey

Education

Most ironworker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. New Jersey has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Structural SteelWeldingBlueprint ReadingRiggingSafety/Fall ProtectionPhysical Stamina

Job Outlook in New Jersey

Nationally, ironworker employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). New Jersey's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Ironworker Salary in New Jersey

How much does a Ironworker make in New Jersey? ▼
The median ironworker salary in New Jersey is $66,125 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $57,500. Salaries range from $41,400 (10th percentile) to $105,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Ironworker make per hour in New Jersey? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $66,125, a ironworker in New Jersey earns approximately $32 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Jersey a good state for ironworkers? ▼
New Jersey ranks #7 out of 50 states for ironworker pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level ironworkers earn $43,700, while senior professionals earn $101,200.
How does New Jersey compare to other states for ironworker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for ironworkers is Hawaii at $102,350. New Jersey's median of $66,125 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($70,150) and Washington ($68,425).
What is the entry-level ironworker salary in New Jersey? ▼
An entry-level ironworker in New Jersey earns approximately $43,700 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $66,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $101,200.
What city in New Jersey pays ironworkers the most? ▼
Jersey City is the highest paying city in New Jersey for ironworkers, with a median salary of $73,600. Other cities include Newark and Paterson.