Trades & Labor North Carolina (NC) Rank #34 of 50

Ironworker Salary in North Carolina

The median ironworker salary in North Carolina is $52,900 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $57,500.

Median Salary
$52,900
vs National
$-4,600
State Rank
#34 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Ironworker Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)

North Carolina ranks #34 out of 50 states for ironworker compensation. Ironworker salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,900 per year, ironworkers in North Carolina earn $4,600 less than the national median of $57,500.

A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $52,900 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $57,500 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: ironworkers at the 10th percentile earn $33,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,640 — a $51,520 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in North Carolina for this role is Charlotte, where the median reaches $56,350.

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 North Carolina by Experience

In North Carolina, an entry-level ironworker earns around $34,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,960
$-3,040 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$53,360
$-4,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$80,960
$-7,040 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Carolina

Percentile NC Salary
10th Percentile $33,120
25th Percentile $40,480
Median (50th) $52,900
75th Percentile $69,000
90th Percentile $84,640

Ironworker Salary by City in North Carolina

The largest employment areas for ironworkers in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Ironworker in North Carolina

Education

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

Key Skills

Structural SteelWeldingBlueprint ReadingRiggingSafety/Fall ProtectionPhysical Stamina

Job Outlook in North Carolina

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Ironworker Salary in North Carolina

How much does a Ironworker make in North Carolina? ▼
The median ironworker salary in North Carolina is $52,900 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $57,500. Salaries range from $33,120 (10th percentile) to $84,640 (90th percentile).
How much does a Ironworker make per hour in North Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $52,900, a ironworker in North Carolina earns approximately $25 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Carolina a good state for ironworkers? ▼
North Carolina ranks #34 out of 50 states for ironworker pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level ironworkers earn $34,960, while senior professionals earn $80,960.
How does North Carolina compare to other states for ironworker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for ironworkers is Hawaii at $102,350. North Carolina's median of $52,900 ranks #34 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Mexico ($53,475) and Indiana ($52,900).
What is the entry-level ironworker salary in North Carolina? ▼
An entry-level ironworker in North Carolina earns approximately $34,960 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $53,360. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $80,960.
What city in North Carolina pays ironworkers the most? ▼
Charlotte is the highest paying city in North Carolina for ironworkers, with a median salary of $56,350. Other cities include Raleigh and Durham.