Spokane vs Walla Walla: Welder Salary (2026)
Compare welder salaries between Spokane, WA and Walla Walla, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Spokane, WA | Walla Walla, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,718 | $61,749▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.67 | $29.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,889 | $48,137▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,383 | $51,766▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $66,720▲ | $65,181 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $77,421▲ | $74,342 |
| Total Employed | 630▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Spokane and Walla Walla are closely matched on overall welder compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Spokane and Walla Walla is $31 (0.05%). Walla Walla's median is +10.47% compared to the US national median of $55,895.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Spokane spans $30,532,Walla Walla spans $26,205. Spokane 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, Walla Walla ($62,677 effective) pays 1.91% more than Spokane ($61,505 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($77,421)
- ✓Larger job market (630 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Walla Walla if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,749/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,677)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, welder salaries in Spokane grew 32.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 48.1% growth in Walla Walla over the same period.
Spokane, WA
$44,730 (2019) → $59,350 (2025)
Walla Walla, WA
$40,090 (2019) → $59,380 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Spokane, WA
Walla Walla, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays welders more: Spokane or Walla Walla?
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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