Springfield vs University City: Welder Salary (2026)
Compare welder salaries between Springfield, MO and University City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, MO | University City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,238▲ | $53,485 |
| Hourly Rate | $27.04▲ | $25.72 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,714▲ | $39,637 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,416▲ | $46,453 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,800▲ | $61,876 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $63,205 | $72,563▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,060▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Springfield, MO offers better overall compensation for welders, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to University City.
The salary gap between Springfield and University City is $2,753 (5.15%). Springfield's median is +0.61% compared to the US national median of $55,895.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $23,491,University City spans $32,926. University City has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced welders.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($63,485 effective) pays 6.35% more than University City ($59,693 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($56,238/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,060 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $63,485)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose University City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($72,563)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, welder salaries in Springfield grew 26.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.0% growth in University City over the same period.
Springfield, MO
$42,710 (2019) → $54,080 (2025)
University City, MO
$45,934 (2024) → $51,433 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MO
University City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays welders more: Springfield or University City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and University City?
Should I relocate from Springfield to University City as a welder?
What do entry-level welders earn in Springfield vs University City?
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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