Welder Salary in Illinois
The median welder salary in Illinois is $44,660 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $47,010.
Welder Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #28 out of 50 states for welder compensation. Welder salaries in Illinois are below the national median, though the higher cost of living makes this gap more significant. At $44,660 per year, welders in Illinois earn $2,350 less than the national median of $47,010.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning welder salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: welders at the 10th percentile earn $31,540, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $67,260 — a $35,720 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $50,771.
Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for welders across the country.
Welder Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level welder earns around $30,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,600 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,860 |
| Median (50th) | $44,660 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,290 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,260 |
Welder Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for welders in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Welder in Illinois
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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