As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Welder First Class in the United States is $47,899 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.
However, a Welder First Class's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Welder First Class Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $59,465 | $4,955 | $1,144 | $29 |
| Average | $47,899 | $3,992 | $921 | $23 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,765 | $3,230 | $745 | $19 |
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A Welder First Class's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Welder First Classes. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
Understanding how a Welder First Class's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $59,465 | $4,955 | $1,144 | $29 |
| Average | $47,899 | $3,992 | $921 | $23 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,765 | $3,230 | $745 | $19 |
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Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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