Aguadilla vs Arecibo: Welder Salary (2026)
Compare welder salaries between Aguadilla, PR and Arecibo, PR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aguadilla, PR | Arecibo, PR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $29,585 | $30,552▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $14.23 | $14.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $27,329▲ | $26,892 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,329 | $30,552▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $32,445▲ | $31,478 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $36,771 | $42,636▲ |
| Total Employed | 90 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Arecibo, PR offers better overall compensation for welders, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Aguadilla.
The salary gap between Aguadilla and Arecibo is $967 (3.27%). Arecibo's median is -45.34% compared to the US national median of $55,895.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aguadilla spans $9,442,Arecibo spans $15,744. Arecibo has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced welders.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aguadilla if…
- ✓You prefer the Puerto Rico area and lifestyle
Choose Arecibo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($30,552/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($42,636)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Puerto Rico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, welder salaries in Aguadilla grew 52.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 27.2% growth in Arecibo over the same period.
Aguadilla, PR
$18,710 (2021) → $28,450 (2025)
Arecibo, PR
$23,100 (2019) → $29,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aguadilla, PR
Arecibo, PR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays welders more: Aguadilla or Arecibo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aguadilla and Arecibo?
Should I relocate from Aguadilla to Arecibo as a welder?
What do entry-level welders earn in Aguadilla vs Arecibo?
Written by James Mendoza, AWS Certified Welder
Career Analyst
James has over 10 years of experience in welding. He specializes in MIG and TIG welding. He has worked in various manufacturing settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.99% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by James Mendoza, AWS Certified Welder, a licensed welder with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov