Welder Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median welder salary in Des Moines, IA is $43,249 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Welder Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median welder salary of $43,249, which is $1,410 above the Iowa state average of $41,839. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Des Moines pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Des Moines's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for welders in Des Moines spans from $30,544 at the 10th percentile to $65,136 at the 90th percentile — a $34,592 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,440, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $62,560. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level welder earns around $29,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA
| Percentile | Des Moines |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,544 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,696 |
| Median (50th) | $43,249 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,544 |
| 90th Percentile | $65,136 |
Welder Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Welder in Des Moines
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open welder positions in Des Moines, IA: