Welder pay in California
State median
Public data$26.97/hr
≈ $56,098/year full-time
Pay distribution in California
25th percentile
$22.44
per hour
Median
$26.97
per hour
75th percentile
$31.51
per hour
Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (BLS May 2023) · bls.gov/oes
Metros in California
- San Jose$30.23/hr median
- San Francisco$29.76/hr median
- Los Angeles$26.04/hr median
- San Diego$25.58/hr median
- Sacramento$25.11/hr median
Frequently asked questions
How much do welders make in California?
The median pay for welders in California is $26.97/hr (about $56,098/year full-time), according to BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics (May 2023). Half earn more, half earn less. The middle 50% fall between $22.44 and $31.51 per hour.
How does California compare to the national average for welders?
California pays 16% above the national median of $23.25/hr for welders. Cost of living, union density, and demand all move state pay relative to the national figure.
Where in California do welders earn the most?
Among the metros we track in California, San Jose pays the most at $30.23/hr median. Compare each metro on the city pages linked below.