Trades & Labor Oregon (OR) Rank #8 of 50

Welder Salary in Oregon

The median welder salary in Oregon is $53,121 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median of $47,010.

Median Salary
$53,121
vs National
+$6,111
State Rank
#8 of 50
Cost of Living
110%

Welder Salary Overview in Oregon (2026)

Oregon ranks #8 out of 50 states for welder compensation. This places Oregon in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for welders seeking high pay. At $53,121 per year, welders in Oregon earn $6,111 more than the national median of $47,010.

It's worth noting that Oregon's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $53,121 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $48,292.

The salary spread in Oregon is significant: welders at the 10th percentile earn $37,516, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $80,004 — a $42,488 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oregon for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $56,882.

Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for welders across the country.

Welder Salary in Oregon by Experience

In Oregon, an entry-level welder earns around $36,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,840 per year. The cost of living index in Oregon is 110% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,160
+$4,160 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,240
+$6,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$76,840
+$8,840 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Oregon

Percentile OR Salary
10th Percentile $37,516
25th Percentile $43,844
Median (50th) $53,121
75th Percentile $65,766
90th Percentile $80,004

Welder Salary by City in Oregon

The largest employment areas for welders in Oregon include Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Gresham. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Welder in Oregon

Education

Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Oregon has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

MIG/TIG WeldingBlueprint ReadingMetal FabricationQuality InspectionSafetyCutting Tools

Job Outlook in Oregon

Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Oregon's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Welder Salary in Oregon

How much does a Welder make in Oregon? ▼
The median welder salary in Oregon is $53,121 per year, which is 13.0% above the national median of $47,010. Salaries range from $37,516 (10th percentile) to $80,004 (90th percentile).
How much does a Welder make per hour in Oregon? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $53,121, a welder in Oregon earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Oregon a good state for welders? ▼
Oregon ranks #8 out of 50 states for welder pay. The cost of living index is 110% of the national average. Entry-level welders earn $36,160, while senior professionals earn $76,840.
How does Oregon compare to other states for welder salary? ▼
The highest paying state for welders is Hawaii at $83,678. Oregon's median of $53,121 ranks #8 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Washington ($55,942) and New Jersey ($54,061).
What is the entry-level welder salary in Oregon? ▼
An entry-level welder in Oregon earns approximately $36,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $54,240. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $76,840.
What city in Oregon pays welders the most? ▼
Portland is the highest paying city in Oregon for welders, with a median salary of $56,882. Other cities include Salem and Eugene.