Welder Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Trades · COL Index: 152.8
$60,040
Median Salary
$65,920
Mean Salary
$39,293
COL-Adjusted
2,560
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $44,380 | $29,045 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,700 | $32,526 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $60,040 | $39,293 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,300 | $49,935 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $105,060 | $68,757 |
What Drives the Range
The $60,680 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Welder positions in Washington, DC 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.
Washington, DC's cost-of-living index of 152.8 means that a $60,040 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $39,293 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.