Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $47,260. This figure is notably below the national average of $54,940, suggesting localized economic factors and potentially a different demand structure influence compensation in this region. The specific needs and industrial landscape of Central Kentucky likely shape the prevailing wage rates for these skilled trades.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $47,260 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $59,860.
- Outlook: The Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area supports a dedicated workforce of 660 Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers. With a Location Quotient of 1.39, this indicates a concentration of these roles that is 39% higher than the national average. This suggests a robust local demand and a specialized job market for these skilled professionals, implying a stable outlook for those in the trade within this region.
Salary Overview
The average Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-14.0%below the national average.
$22.7
$909
$3,938
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that over the past four years, salaries for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Central Kentucky have likely seen modest growth, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increasing demand for skilled labor, and advancements in welding technology typically contribute to upward pressure on wages in specialized trade sectors.
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary Distribution in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized certifications and extensive experience can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $34,290 | $16.5 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $35,445 | $17 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $44,860 | $21.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $59,075 | $28.4 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $59,860 | $28.8 |
Detailed Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$47,260
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$47,260
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $47,260 in Central Kentucky aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a welder's salary in this region is comparable to the national average. While the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the equivalent cost of living suggests that the take-home pay may offer similar lifestyle affordability.
Job Market Context
660
Total Jobs
3.814
Per 1K Jobs
1.39
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.39, Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.39 for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Central Kentucky signifies a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests that the job market in this area is relatively more specialized and potentially more competitive for these roles, as there are more jobs per capita than the national benchmark. Employers may find it easier to source talent locally, while job seekers might face a more focused, albeit potentially robust, employment landscape.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary | $53,980↑ 14% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary | $56,620↑ 20% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary | $52,690↑ 11% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary | $54,660↑ 16% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers make in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $47,260. This typically ranges from $34,290 for entry-level positions to $59,860 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 14.0% lower than the national median of $54,940.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers?
No, not more lucrative than the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $47,260 is significantly lower than the national average of $54,940, indicating less lucrative earning potential.
Is Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers?
The Cost of Living Index in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($53,980) and Elizabethtown, KY.
What is the average salary for a Welder in Central Kentucky?
The average annual salary for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $47,260.
How does the Central Kentucky welder salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Central Kentucky ($47,260) is lower than the national average ($54,940) for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers.
Is the job market for welders concentrated in Central Kentucky?
Yes, with a Location Quotient of 1.39, the concentration of welders is higher than the national average, indicating a specialized job market.
How does the cost of living in Central Kentucky affect a welder's salary?
The cost of living in Central Kentucky is at the national average (100), meaning the $47,260 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being lower nominally.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 660 employees in the Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 3.814 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area