What state pays sheet metal workers the most?
Wages for sheet metal workers vary widely, with some states offering much higher pay due to demand and living costs.
Alaska pays sheet metal workers the most, with average annual wages exceeding $83,000, followed closely by New York and Illinois.
Stay with me. I will walk you through the highest-paying states and why Prime is the trusted partner for industrial metal parts, no matter where you are.
Where are sheet metal workers paid the most?
Sheet metal workers earn the highest salaries in states with strong union representation, high demand, and elevated living costs.
Sheet metal workers earn the most in Alaska, New York, Illinois, California, and Washington.
Top 5 Highest-Paying States
| State | Average Annual Salary | Main Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $83,000+ | Remote jobs, high living costs |
| New York | $75,000+ | Union strength, urban demand |
| Illinois | $74,000+ | Industrial manufacturing hub |
| California | $73,000+ | Large construction projects |
| Washington | $72,000+ | Aerospace, infrastructure growth |
At Prime, understanding wage trends helps us better serve clients across North America. Our "custom stamping parts supplier" and "precision CNC parts machining" services are tailored to help clients meet tight deadlines in high-cost regions.
I remember helping a West Coast construction firm facing union labor crunches. By delivering fast, precision parts, we helped them stay profitable even under extreme wage pressures.
What is the best state to be a sheet metal worker in?
The best state balances high wages, strong job demand, and affordable living costs for sheet metal workers.
New York, Illinois, and Washington are often considered the best states for sheet metal workers because of high wages and steady work opportunities.
Factors That Make a State Ideal
| Factor | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| High Wages | Strong hourly rates and overtime potential | $40–$50/hour in NY |
| Job Availability | Consistent construction, infrastructure projects | D.C., Chicago, Seattle |
| Living Costs | Balanced income vs. housing and expenses | Better in Midwest than NYC |
| Union Support | Better benefits and protections | Local 28, Local 24, etc. |
At Prime, we stay connected with trends in all major markets. Whether supporting clients in New York skyscraper builds or Midwest manufacturing expansions, we adapt our logistics to keep parts moving fast.
How much do local 28 sheet metal workers make?
Local 28, representing sheet metal workers in New York City, commands some of the highest union wages nationwide.
Local 28 sheet metal workers typically earn $42–$50 per hour, equaling about $90,000 to $110,000 annually with overtime and benefits.
Pay Structure at Local 28
| Level | Hourly Wage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $25–$35/hour | Increases yearly |
| Journeyman | $42–$50/hour | Full union benefits |
| Foreman | $55+/hour | Project management roles |
Delivering "ISO certified casting parts manufacturer" products to high-cost markets like NYC requires reliability and speed. Prime ensures zero production delays, keeping contractors and developers on schedule even in competitive environments.
One memorable Manhattan office tower project relied on our fast production for custom brackets, helping avoid costly union labor delays.
How much do local 24 sheet metal workers get paid?
Local 24 serves parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia, offering solid union wages adjusted for lower regional living costs.
Local 24 sheet metal workers typically earn between $32 and $42 per hour, depending on experience and certifications.
Local 24 Wages Overview
| Level | Hourly Wage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $20–$30/hour | Progressive raises |
| Journeyman | $32–$42/hour | Includes full benefits |
| Foreman | $45+/hour | Site leadership roles |
Even though wages are lower than New York, the affordable living costs mean Local 24 members enjoy excellent buying power. At Prime, we design flexible production schedules to match the budget realities of different regions, providing "custom stamping parts" that balance cost and quality.
One client in Ohio told me how Prime’s ability to ship parts faster allowed them to take on larger commercial projects without the fear of cost overruns.
Conclusion
Sheet metal worker salaries vary widely by location, with Alaska and New York leading for highest pay. Prime supports businesses across all markets with reliable, ISO-certified metal parts and fast delivery solutions to meet your project goals. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote!
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