Millwrights play a crucial role in industrial settings, ensuring the installation, maintenance, and repair of machinery and heavy equipment. For those considering a career as a union millwright or looking to relocate, understanding the pay scale across different states is essential. This topic provides a detailed breakdown of millwright salaries by state, highlighting where wages are the highest and factors influencing earnings.
What Determines Union Millwright Salaries?
Several factors affect the salary of a union millwright, including:
- Experience Level: Entry-level millwrights earn less than experienced professionals.
- Union Membership: Unionized workers often receive better wages and benefits compared to non-unionized workers.
- Industry Demand: States with high industrial activity generally offer higher salaries.
- Cost of Living: States with higher living expenses tend to compensate workers with better wages.
- Company and Sector: Millwrights working in specialized industries (e.g., energy, aerospace) may earn more.
Highest-Paying States for Union Millwrights
Based on the most recent data, the highest-paying states for millwrights in 2023 are:
- Nevada – $75,690 per year
- Michigan – $75,380 per year
- New Mexico – $73,930 per year
- Arizona – $71,760 per year
- Nebraska – $70,720 per year
These states offer competitive wages due to high industrial demand, union strength, and regional economic factors.
Mid-Range Paying States
Millwrights in states with moderate pay scales earn between $60,000 and $70,000 annually. Some examples include:
- Ohio – $70,180 per year
- Massachusetts – $69,400 per year
- Colorado – $67,200 per year
- New Jersey – $66,800 per year
- Alaska – $66,460 per year
These states still offer strong job opportunities, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and construction.
Lowest-Paying States for Millwrights
While millwrights earn a decent salary nationwide, some states fall below the national average. The lowest-paying states include:
- Tennessee – $48,630 per year
- Rhode Island – $43,920 per year
- Mississippi – $49,040 per year
- North Carolina – $49,600 per year
- Arkansas – $49,350 per year
These states may have lower wages due to fewer industrial projects, weaker union representation, or lower costs of living.
How Do Union Wages Compare to Non-Union Wages?
Unionized millwrights typically earn 20-30% more than their non-union counterparts. Union membership provides:
- Higher hourly wages
- Better benefits (healthcare, pension, overtime pay)
- More job security
- Access to training and certifications
For example, in high-union-density states like Michigan and Ohio, millwrights see significantly higher wages than in right-to-work states like Tennessee or North Carolina.
Future Outlook for Millwright Salaries
The demand for millwrights is expected to grow due to:
- Increased automation and industrial projects
- Expansion in renewable energy sectors
- Aging workforce leading to high retirement rates
States with strong manufacturing and construction industries will likely continue to offer high wages and job stability.
Union millwrights enjoy competitive salaries across the U.S., with some states offering significantly higher wages due to industry demand and union strength. If you’re looking for the best-paying opportunities, states like Nevada, Michigan, and New Mexico are top choices. Meanwhile, those in lower-paying states may benefit from union membership and specialization to increase their earning potential.
Would you like information on apprenticeship programs or specific union benefits in your state? Let me know!