Welder Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median welder salary in Raleigh, NC is $46,070 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Welder Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median welder salary of $46,070, which is $2,821 above the North Carolina state average of $43,249. Compared to the national median of $47,010, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $32,536 at the 10th percentile to $69,384 at the 90th percentile — a $36,848 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $31,360, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $66,640. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level welder earns around $31,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,536 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,024 |
| Median (50th) | $46,070 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,036 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,384 |
Welder Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Welder in Raleigh
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open welder positions in Raleigh, NC: