Trades & Labor Washington (WA) Rank #6 of 50

Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Washington

The median sheet metal worker salary in Washington is $65,867 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $55,350.

Median Salary
$65,867
vs National
+$10,517
State Rank
#6 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Sheet Metal Worker Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #6 out of 50 states for sheet metal worker compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for sheet metal workers seeking high pay. At $65,867 per year, sheet metal workers in Washington earn $10,517 more than the national median of $55,350.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $65,867 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $57,276.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: sheet metal workers at the 10th percentile earn $40,460, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $102,340 — a $61,880 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $86,346.

Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for sheet metal workers across the country.

Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level sheet metal worker earns around $42,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,580 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$42,840
+$6,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$66,640
+$10,640 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$97,580
+$15,580 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $65,867 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $40,460
25th Percentile $49,980
Median (50th) $65,867
75th Percentile $83,300
90th Percentile $102,340

Sheet Metal Worker Salary by City in Washington

The largest employment areas for sheet metal workers in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Washington

Education

Most sheet metal worker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Sheet Metal FabricationHVAC DuctworkWeldingBlueprint ReadingMeasurementSafety

Job Outlook in Washington

Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Sheet Metal Workers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,713 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Sheet Metal Worker Roles in Washington?

Get matched with recruiters hiring sheet metal workers in Washington at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Washington

How much does a Sheet Metal Worker make in Washington? ▼
The median sheet metal worker salary in Washington is $65,867 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $55,350. Salaries range from $40,460 (10th percentile) to $102,340 (90th percentile).
How much does a Sheet Metal Worker make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $65,867, a sheet metal worker in Washington earns approximately $32 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for sheet metal workers? ▼
Washington ranks #6 out of 50 states for sheet metal worker pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level sheet metal workers earn $42,840, while senior professionals earn $97,580.
How does Washington compare to other states for sheet metal worker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for sheet metal workers is Hawaii at $98,523. Washington's median of $65,867 ranks #6 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alaska ($74,169) and New York ($67,527).
What is the entry-level sheet metal worker salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level sheet metal worker in Washington earns approximately $42,840 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $66,640. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $97,580.
What city in Washington pays sheet metal workers the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for sheet metal workers, with a median salary of $86,346. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.