Welder Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median welder salary in Columbia, MO is $41,369 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Welder Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median welder salary of $41,369, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $41,369. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $41,369 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $47,010 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for welders seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for welders in Columbia spans from $29,216 at the 10th percentile to $62,304 at the 90th percentile — a $33,088 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,160, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $59,840. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level welder earns around $28,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $59,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,216 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,144 |
| Median (50th) | $41,369 |
| 75th Percentile | $51,216 |
| 90th Percentile | $62,304 |
Welder Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Welder in Columbia
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Columbia
Browse open welder positions in Columbia, MO: