Welder Salary in San Jose, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Trades · COL Index: 195.8
$67,560
Median Salary
$74,750
Mean Salary
$34,505
COL-Adjusted
1,160
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $50,050 | $25,562 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,250 | $29,239 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $67,560 | $34,505 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,280 | $42,022 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $115,370 | $58,922 |
What Drives the Range
The $65,320 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Welder positions in San Jose, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Jose, CA's cost-of-living index of 195.8 means that a $67,560 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $34,505 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.