Welder Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median welder salary in Durham, NC is $44,660 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Welder Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median welder salary of $44,660, which is $1,411 above the North Carolina state average of $43,249. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% 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 Durham spans from $31,540 at the 10th percentile to $67,260 at the 90th percentile — a $35,720 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,400, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $64,600. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level welder earns around $30,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,540 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,860 |
| Median (50th) | $44,660 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,290 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,260 |
Welder Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Welder in Durham
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Durham
Browse open welder positions in Durham, NC: