Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Median annual salary $50,700 -0.6% vs national
Median hourly $24.37
10th percentile $37,950
90th percentile $70,910
Employed locally 9,150
National median $51,000

Compare Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary & buying power

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Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
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    In Chicago, IL-IN, welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers earn a median annual salary of $50,700, which is slightly below the national median of $51,000 for this occupation. This translates to a median hourly wage of $24.37. When compared to the area's median household income of $88,850, it becomes evident that workers in this field typically earn less than the average household in their locality. The local unemployment rate stands at 5.10%, indicating moderate job availability in the region for these trades.

    Entry-level welders in Chicago can expect earnings around the 10th percentile mark, which is approximately $37,950 annually, while those at the 25th percentile earn about $44,200 a year. In contrast, experienced workers situated near the 75th and 90th percentiles earn significantly more, with incomes of $59,960 and $70,910 respectively. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals is primarily driven by factors such as experience, skill level, and specialization within the field. As welders gain expertise and proficiency, their ability to command higher salaries increases, reflecting the value of their accumulated knowledge and capabilities in more complex welding projects or specialized environments.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $37,950
    25th
    $44,200
    50th (median)
    $50,700
    75th
    $59,960
    90th
    $70,910

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary vs area income 57% Median Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary is 43% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Chicago, IL-IN is $24.37, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $35.79 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salaries?

    The median Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 0.6% below the national median of $51,000. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Chicago?

    Entry-level Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers (10th percentile) earn around $37,950 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $44,200.