Sheet metal workers
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$60,850
~$29/hr · ~$5,071/mo
US Jobs
127K
Slower than average
AI & Automation Risk
3/10
Low Risk
AI & Automation Risk
Low Risk 3/10
The core of this occupation involves physical labor, manual dexterity, and on-site installation in unpredictable construction environments, which are highly resistant to AI. While AI and computer-controlled machinery (CADD, lasers, and automated presses) are increasingly used in the fabrication phase, the majority of the work—including installation, maintenance, and complex physical maneuvering—cannot be performed by digital tools.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennewick-Richland, WABEST VALUE | $103,350 | Average (98.9) | $104,515 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $115,970 | Above avg (113.1) | $102,575 |
| Champaign-Urbana, IL | $92,540 | Below avg (90.7) | $102,024 |
| Vineland, NJ | $91,960 | Below avg (93.9) | $97,918 |
| Peoria, IL | $86,810 | Below avg (88.8) | $97,722 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN | $97,970 | Average (102.5) | $95,594 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | $89,550 | Below avg (94.1) | $95,165 |
| St. Cloud, MN | $83,070 | Below avg (89.3) | $93,022 |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS | $81,050 | Below avg (87.6) | $92,534 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum, NY | $84,150 | Below avg (90.9) | $92,528 |
| Springfield, IL | $83,530 | Below avg (90.7) | $92,145 |
| Rockford, IL | $82,160 | Below avg (90.2) | $91,121 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $102,680 | Above avg (112.7) | $91,084 |
| Flint, MI | $81,810 | Below avg (89.9) | $91,022 |
| Napa, CA | $100,950 | Above avg (111.8) | $90,274 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
10-Year Growth
+2% (Slower than average)
Hourly Rate
~$29/hr
Monthly Income
~$5,071/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)