Welder Salary in Lafayette, Louisiana
The median welder salary in Lafayette, LA is $43,719 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 3.1% below the Louisiana state average.
Welder Pay in Lafayette: What to Expect (2026)
Lafayette offers a median welder salary of $43,719, which is $1,411 below the Louisiana state average of $45,130. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Lafayette pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Lafayette's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $43,719 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $49,681 in an average-cost city. This makes Lafayette an attractive option for welders seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for welders in Lafayette spans from $30,876 at the 10th percentile to $65,844 at the 90th percentile — a $34,968 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $29,760, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $63,240. With a population of 121,374, Lafayette is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Lafayette by Experience
In Lafayette, an entry-level welder earns around $29,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $63,240 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lafayette, LA
| Percentile | Lafayette |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,876 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,084 |
| Median (50th) | $43,719 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,126 |
| 90th Percentile | $65,844 |
Welder Salary in Other Louisiana Cities
How to Become a Welder in Lafayette
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Lafayette and the surrounding Louisiana 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 Lafayette may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Lafayette
Browse open welder positions in Lafayette, LA: