Trades & Labor Chicago, IL Pop. 2,693,976

Welder Salary in Chicago, Illinois

The median welder salary in Chicago, IL is $50,301 per year, which is 7.0% above the national median and 12.6% above the Illinois state average.

City Median
$50,301
vs State Avg
+$5,641
vs National
+$3,291
Cost of Living
107%

Welder Salary in Chicago by Experience

In Chicago, an entry-level welder earns around $34,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,760 per year. The local cost of living index is 107% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,240
+$2,240 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$51,360
+$3,360 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$72,760
+$4,760 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Chicago, IL

Percentile Chicago
10th Percentile $35,524
25th Percentile $41,516
Median (50th) $50,301
75th Percentile $62,274
90th Percentile $75,756

Welder Salary in Other Illinois Cities

Naperville, IL
$50,771
Pop. 149,540
Aurora, IL
$44,660
Pop. 197,757
Springfield, IL
$39,959
Pop. 114,394
Rockford, IL
$38,548
Pop. 148,655

How to Become a Welder in Chicago

Education

Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

MIG/TIG WeldingBlueprint ReadingMetal FabricationQuality InspectionSafetyCutting Tools

Job Outlook

Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chicago may vary based on local industry and population growth.