Tech epicenter — highest tech wages on Earth. Here's how Welders in San Francisco get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Francisco metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $63,200 | $48,000 | $82,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $78,600 | $59,700 | $102,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $90,400 | $68,700 | $117,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $108,400 | $82,400 | $141,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $122,900 | $93,400 | $159,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Welders — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Francisco metro economy.
The average Welder salary in the San Francisco metro is $90,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $68,700 to $117,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $149,100 or more.
Yes — San Francisco pays +13% relative to the California state median for Welders. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
San Francisco vs. national: +58%. That puts San Francisco among the stronger US markets for Welders — though cost of living in San Francisco is also typically elevated.
In San Francisco, the median Welder salary of $90,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Welders in San Francisco start around $63,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $108,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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