Welder Salary in Kearney, Nebraska
The median welder salary in Kearney, NE is $40,429 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 4.4% below the Nebraska state average.
Welder Pay in Kearney: What to Expect (2026)
Kearney offers a median welder salary of $40,429, which is $1,880 below the Nebraska state average of $42,309. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Kearney pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Kearney's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $40,429 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $47,010 in an average-cost city. This makes Kearney an attractive option for welders seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for welders in Kearney spans from $28,552 at the 10th percentile to $60,888 at the 90th percentile — a $32,336 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,520, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $58,480. Kearney is a smaller market (pop. 33,464), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Welder Salary in Kearney by Experience
In Kearney, an entry-level welder earns around $27,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Kearney, NE
| Percentile | Kearney |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,552 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,368 |
| Median (50th) | $40,429 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,052 |
| 90th Percentile | $60,888 |
Welder Salary in Other Nebraska Cities
How to Become a Welder in Kearney
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Kearney and the surrounding Nebraska 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 Kearney may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Kearney
Browse open welder positions in Kearney, NE: