Kennewick vs University Place: Welder Salary (2026)
Compare welder salaries between Kennewick, WA and University Place, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kennewick, WA | University Place, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,302▲ | $61,045 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.36▲ | $29.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,005▲ | $44,765 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,240▲ | $52,620 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,724▲ | $68,988 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,206▲ | $88,145 |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for welders, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to University Place.
The salary gap between Kennewick and University Place is $6,257 (10.25%). Kennewick's median is +20.41% compared to the US national median of $55,895.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $47,201,University Place spans $43,380. Kennewick has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kennewick ($67,249 effective) pays 18.31% more than University Place ($56,839 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,302/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,206)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,249)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose University Place if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, welder salaries in Kennewick grew 24.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -10.1% growth in University Place over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$51,800 (2019) → $64,720 (2025)
University Place, WA
$65,301 (2024) → $58,703 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
University Place, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays welders more: Kennewick or University Place?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kennewick and University Place?
Should I relocate from Kennewick to University Place as a welder?
What do entry-level welders earn in Kennewick vs University Place?
Related Comparisons
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