Welder Salary in Virginia Beach
2026 compensation data for Welder positions in Virginia Beach, VA. Ranges from $34,000 (entry-level) to $92,000 (senior). Median: $55,000.
Median (Mid)
$55,000
$26.44/hr
vs National
+6%
US: $52,000
COL Index
98
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$92,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $34,000 | $41,000 | $49,000 | $19.71/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $45,000 | $55,000 | $68,000 | $26.44/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $64,000 | $77,000 | $92,000 | $37.02/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Virginia Beach
A mid-level welder earning $55,000 in Virginia Beach has the same buying power as $56,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 98).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Welder Salaries in Virginia Beach
The median welder salary in Virginia Beach, VA is $55,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 6% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 98 (national average = 100), Virginia Beach offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level welders in Virginia Beach can expect to earn between $34,000 and $49,000 (about $19.71/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $92,000 ($92K annually, or about $44.23/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Virginia Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions: Welder Salary in Virginia Beach
What is the average Welder salary in Virginia Beach?+
The average Welder salary in Virginia Beach is $55,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $41,000 and senior-level pay reaches $77,000.
How much does an entry-level welder make in Virginia Beach?+
Entry-level welders in Virginia Beach earn between $34,000 and $49,000, with a median of $41,000 per year (about $19.71/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Welder in Virginia Beach?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Welder in Virginia Beach earns roughly $19.71/hour at entry-level, $26.44/hour at mid-level, and $37.02/hour at senior-level.
Is the Welder salary in Virginia Beach higher than the US average?+
Yes — Welder salaries in Virginia Beach are about 6% higher than the US national median of $52,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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