In short
Structural iron and steel workers earned a median $62,780 a year in May 2025, about $30 an hour, according to BLS. The bottom 10 percent earned under $44,580 and the top 10 percent over $108,260. Rebar workers, a related ironworker trade, had a median of $58,970. Union ironworkers on large projects tend to reach the top of the range.
Yearly wages for structural iron and steel workers across the U.S., BLS OEWS, May 2025. Hourly figures divide by 2,080 hours, so overtime is not counted. New apprentices usually sit near or below the bottom-quarter line.
| Middle pay | $62,780 a year, roughly $30.18 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 68,300 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 3.1% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 5,900, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
What moves ironworker pay
- Union scale: ironworkers locals negotiate wages and benefits.
- Specialty: connecting, welding and rigging skills raise pay.
- Project size: bridges, stadiums and high-rises often pay more.
- Overtime and travel: big jobs can run long.
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Straight answers
How much do ironworkers make an hour?
The median works out to about $30 an hour.
Do ironworkers make more than welders?
At the median, yes: $62,780 versus $53,750 for welders in May 2025.
Is ironwork dangerous?
It involves heights and heavy steel, so fall protection and training are critical.