Machinists Salary in Milwaukee, WI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Milwaukee-Waukesha, WI

Median annual salary $53,010 -5.6% vs national
Median hourly $25.49
10th percentile $38,070
90th percentile $74,840
Employed locally 4,380
National median $56,150

Compare Machinists salary & buying power

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    In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, machinists earn a median annual salary of $53,010, which translates to approximately $25.49 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national median for machinists at $56,150. When compared to local household income in Milwaukee, where the area median stands at $76,404, the earnings of machinists represent a significant portion, yet still fall short of meeting typical household financial needs when considered independently. This discrepancy highlights the broader economic landscape wherein individual earnings from specific trades may not fully align with the average household requirements, reflecting both occupational and regional economic variances.

    Entry-level machinists in Milwaukee generally earn around $38,070 annually, which is at the 10th percentile of the salary distribution for this occupation. In contrast, more experienced workers can achieve salaries up to $74,840, reflective of the 90th percentile, with a significant leap seen at the 75th percentile where earnings reach approximately $62,520. The disparity in pay between entry-level and seasoned machinists is driven by several factors including years of experience, skill level, proficiency with advanced machinery, and additional certifications that enhance productivity and efficiency on the job. These variables contribute to career progression opportunities within this field, allowing experienced workers to command higher wages over time.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $38,070
    25th
    $47,380
    50th (median)
    $53,010
    75th
    $62,520
    90th
    $74,840

    Milwaukee economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $76,404 2023 • Census ACS
    Machinists salary vs area income 69% Median Machinists salary is 31% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Machinists make per hour in Milwaukee?

    The median hourly wage for Machinists in Milwaukee, WI is $25.49, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $37.77 or more per hour.

    Is Milwaukee above or below average for Machinists salaries?

    The median Machinists salary in Milwaukee, WI is 5.6% below the national median of $56,150. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Machinists in Milwaukee?

    Entry-level Machinists (10th percentile) earn around $38,070 per year in Milwaukee, WI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $47,380.