Average Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary in Columbia, SC
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC, can expect an average annual salary of $48,620. This figure is notably below the national average of $54,940, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as industry demand and the specific types of manufacturing present in the region, play a significant role in compensation levels.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $48,620 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,430.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 860 professionals in this trade, Columbia, SC, presents a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, market for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers. The Location Quotient of 0.81 indicates a slightly lower concentration compared to the national average, suggesting that while opportunities exist, the demand might not be as robust as in more specialized industrial hubs.
Salary Overview
The average Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC earns-11.5%below the national average.
$23.4
$935
$4,052
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC, have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and inflation. This upward trajectory is typical for skilled trades as demand for infrastructure and manufacturing continues.
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Career progression for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the typical wage gap between junior and highly experienced professionals in this field can be substantial, often reflecting increased skill, specialization, and responsibility.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $35,880 | $17.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $36,465 | $17.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $48,430 | $23.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $60,775 | $29.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $61,430 | $29.5 |
Detailed Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$48,620
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$48,620
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $48,620 in Columbia, SC, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a welder's income in Columbia is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial footing without the added pressure of higher living expenses.
Job Market Context
860
Total Jobs
2.232
Per 1K Jobs
0.81
Location Quotient
Columbia, SC has 0.81x the national average concentration of Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.81 for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC, signifies a market that is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the profession is present and valued, it may not be a dominant industry, potentially leading to a more balanced job market with moderate competition for skilled individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC is $48,620. This typically ranges from $35,880 for entry-level positions to $61,430 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 11.5% lower than the national median of $54,940.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazerss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to national averages.While the average salary of $48,620 is stable due to a cost of living matching the national average, it falls below the national average salary for this profession.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Columbia, SC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area ($46,890) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
What is the average salary for a Welder in Columbia, SC?
The average annual salary for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in Columbia, SC, is $48,620.
How does Columbia, SC's cost of living compare to the national average?
Columbia, SC, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the same as the national average.
Is the job market for Welders strong in Columbia, SC?
The job market is stable with a local workforce of 860, but the Location Quotient of 0.81 suggests it's slightly less concentrated than the national average.
How does the local salary compare to the national average for this role?
The average salary in Columbia, SC ($48,620) is lower than the national average salary ($54,940) for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 860 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 2.232 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 Columbia, SC