How Welders in Texas get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Texas compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $44,100 | $33,500 | $57,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $54,800 | $41,600 | $71,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $63,100 | $47,900 | $82,000 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $75,700 | $57,400 | $98,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $85,800 | $65,100 | $111,500 |
Pay varies sharply within Texas. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Texas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin | $64,900 | $49,300 | $84,400 | +3% |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $63,100 | $47,900 | $82,000 | +0% |
| Houston | $61,200 | $46,500 | $79,600 | -3% |
Top occupations by median pay in Texas — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Welder salary in Texas is $63,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $47,900 and the 75th at $82,000.
Pay-wise, Texas sits +10% above the national Welder median ($57,300). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Welders (10–14 years of experience) in Texas earn around $75,700 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $85,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Texas ranks 17th for Welder pay. The highest-paying state pays around $80,300 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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