Plumber vs Welder: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Plumber
Install and repair pipes, fixtures, and plumbing systems in buildings.
Welder
Join metal components using various welding processes for manufacturing and construction.
Plumber earns more on average — the national median is $12,000/year (24%) higher than a Welder. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Plumber vs Welder — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Plumber | Welder | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $90,412 | $73,001 | Plumber +$17,411 |
| New York, NY | $74,492 | $61,592 | Plumber +$12,900 |
| Seattle, WA | $86,433 | $72,832 | Plumber +$13,601 |
| Austin, TX | $68,479 | $54,744 | Plumber +$13,735 |
| Chicago, IL | $65,596 | $55,107 | Plumber +$10,489 |
| Boston, MA | $83,325 | $66,166 | Plumber +$17,159 |
| London, UK | £47,528 | £39,329 | Plumber +$8,199 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$81,287 | CA$64,838 | Plumber +$16,449 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Plumber or Welder earn more?+
A Plumber earns more on average. The national median salary for a Plumber is $62,000/year, compared to $50,000/year for a Welder — a difference of $12,000 (24%).
Which has better career growth — Plumber or Welder?+
Plumber roles are growing at 5% YoY while Welder demand is growing at 3% YoY. Plumber has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Plumber to Welder?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: Blueprint Reading.
Which is harder to automate — Plumber or Welder?+
Plumber has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 35%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.