Welders in California make on average between approximately $48,000 to $50,000 per year in 2025, with hourly wages around $22 to $27 depending on experience and location. Entry-level welders generally start around $43,000 to $47,000 annually ($19 to $25 per hour), while experienced welders can earn up to about $79,000 per year or more. Union welders, especially in cities like Los Angeles, may make significantly more, around $98,000 annually. The average hourly wage reported ranges mostly from about $22 to $27, with some top wages near $30 or beyond for higher experience or specialized jobs.
Salary Range by Experience
- Entry-level: Around $43,000 to $47,000 per year / $19–$25 per hour
- Average welder: About $48,000 to $50,000 per year / $22–$27 per hour
- Experienced/senior welders: Up to $79,000 or higher annually
- Union welders (Los Angeles): Up to about $98,000 annually
This range reflects input from multiple salary aggregation sources as of 2025, with some variation depending on location within California and specific certification or union status.
Location and Job Market Factors
Welding pay varies between different cities and regions in California, with higher wages often found in urban and high-cost living areas like Los Angeles and the Bay Area. Entry-level opportunities may be less abundant and pay slightly lower in some areas but have room for growth.
Overall, welders in California earn a competitive wage relative to national averages, influenced heavily by experience, geographic location, and union membership status.
