Top-Paying Skilled Trades in 2024
Are you considering a career in the skilled trades? With a high demand for skilled workers and competitive salaries, the trades can offer a stable, well-paying career path. From electricians to HVAC technicians, here’s a look at the top-paying skilled trades in 2024 and what makes each of them a rewarding option.
Why Choose a Skilled Trade?
Many people find skilled trades attractive because they typically require less time and expense than a traditional four-year college degree, yet still offer great salaries and job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in construction, installation, and repair are expected to see continued growth, with a particularly strong demand for specialized skills.
If you're looking for a career that combines hands-on work, job security, and great pay, one of these high-paying trades might be perfect for you.
1. Electrician
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. As of 2024, electricians are among the highest-paid skilled trades, with competitive wages and strong job security.
- Average Salary: $60,000 - $75,000 per year
- Top-Paying Locations: California, Texas, and New York
- Required Certification: State licensing, with additional certifications for specialized areas (e.g., solar installation)
2. Plumber, Pipefitter, and Steamfitter
Plumbers and pipefitters install and repair pipes that carry liquids and gases in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Due to constant demand in various industries, this trade remains well-compensated.
- Average Salary: $55,000 - $70,000 per year
- Top-Paying Locations: Illinois, Alaska, and Massachusetts
- Required Certification: State or local licensing, often through an apprenticeship program
Source: U.S. News - Plumber Salary Data
3. HVAC Technician
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians install and maintain climate control systems in homes, offices, and industrial facilities. With extreme weather becoming more common, the demand for skilled HVAC technicians is steadily increasing.
- Average Salary: $50,000 - $65,000 per year
- Top-Paying Locations: New Jersey, Alaska, and Washington
- Required Certification: EPA Section 608 Certification for handling refrigerants, with optional certifications for advanced skills
4. Welder
Welders use high-temperature tools to fuse metal parts, playing a crucial role in construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. Skilled welders, especially those certified in specialized techniques, are in high demand and earn competitive wages.
- Average Salary: $45,000 - $60,000 per year
- Top-Paying Locations: Alaska, North Dakota, and Wyoming
- Required Certification: AWS (American Welding Society) certification, with additional certifications for specialized welding processes
5. Auto Service Technician
Auto service technicians inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles, a trade that offers high earning potential, especially with specialized certifications. Technicians with expertise in diagnostics or electric vehicle technology may command even higher wages.
- Average Salary: $40,000 - $55,000 per year
- Top-Paying Locations: California, Massachusetts, and New Jersey
- Required Certification: ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification, with additional specializations available
How to Get Started in a Skilled Trade
Starting a career in a skilled trade usually involves a mix of formal training and hands-on experience. Many trades offer apprenticeships, which allow you to earn while you learn. Additionally, certifications and state licenses are often required to practice in these fields, particularly for higher-paying positions.
If you’re interested in exploring a career in any of these trades, check out our Trades Overview Page for more details on certification programs, training options, and career paths.
Key Takeaways
Skilled trades offer high-paying career options without the need for a traditional college degree. From electricians to HVAC technicians, these trades provide a combination of job security, competitive wages, and opportunities for specialization.