Plumber vs Welder: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a plumber or a welder? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🚿 Plumber | 🔥 Welder |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $28.50/hr | $22/hr |
| Median Annual | $59,300/yr | $45,800/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 6.0% | 2.0% |
| Total Jobs | 500,200 | 427,300 |
| Training Time | 5 years | 3-4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($80,000/yr) | Alaska ($63,400/yr) |
| Union Rate | $35/hr (UA) | $28.50/hr (IBB) |
Salary Comparison
Plumbers earn about $13,100/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both plumbers and welders are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🚿 Choose Plumber if...
Plumbers install and repair water, gas, and drainage systems in residential and commercial buildings. The work is steady, recession-resistant, and pays well in most parts of the country.
Plumber salary data →🔥 Choose Welder if...
Welders join metal parts using heat and pressure in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects. Specialized certifications like TIG and pipe welding can push hourly rates well above average.
Welder salary data →Training difference: Plumbers require longer apprenticeship (5 yrs vs 3-4 yrs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Plumbers earn a national median of $59,300/yr compared to $45,800/yr for welders. That's a difference of about $13,500/yr.
Plumber jobs are projected to grow at 6.0% over the next decade, compared to 2.0% for welders.
Plumbers require longer apprenticeship (5 yrs vs 3-4 yrs). Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.