Highest Paying States for Tool and Die Maker Certification in 2026
Tool and die makers are highly skilled technicians known for crafting precision tools and dies necessary for manufacturing industries. Their compensation varies significantly across the United States, influenced by regional economic conditions, cost of living, and local demand for skilled labor. As of 2026, the average salary for certified tool and die makers across 43 states stands at $61,599, with a national median of $63,180.
Top 5 Highest Paying States
Washington leads the list with an annual salary of $81,870, likely due to its advanced manufacturing sectors and high cost of living. Maine follows with $76,080, where specialized maritime and aerospace industries may drive demand. Oregon's $75,400 reflects its growing tech manufacturing base. Connecticut offers $71,880, supported by its strong aerospace and submarine sectors. Massachusetts rounds out the top five at $67,790, benefiting from its diverse industrial base and high unionization rates.
5 Lowest Paying States
Arkansas, at $46,850, and Virginia, at $49,420, show the impact of a lower cost of living and possibly less industrial diversity. Mississippi and Missouri, offering $51,580 and $52,330 respectively, might reflect lower local demand for manufacturing. South Dakota's $52,680 could be influenced by a smaller manufacturing sector and lower living costs.
What Affects Tool and Die Maker Certification Salary?
Salaries for tool and die makers are influenced by several factors including years of experience, industry settings, and specializations within the field. Those who work overtime or in high-demand specializations typically see higher earnings. Geographic location also plays a crucial role, as seen in the variance across states.
Salary Comparison Table
Below is a detailed comparison of median annual and hourly wages for tool and die makers across the United States:
| State | Median Annual Salary | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $81,870 | $39.36 |
| Maine | $76,080 | $36.58 |
| Oregon | $75,400 | $36.25 |
| Connecticut | $71,880 | $34.56 |
| Massachusetts | $67,790 | $32.59 |
| Kansas | $66,940 | $32.18 |
| New Hampshire | $66,750 | $32.09 |
| California | $66,090 | $31.77 |
| Vermont | $65,600 | $31.54 |
| New York | $65,320 | $31.40 |
| New Jersey | $64,810 | $31.16 |
| Nevada | $64,690 | $31.10 |
| Arizona | $64,640 | $31.08 |
| South Carolina | $64,190 | $30.86 |
| Oklahoma | $63,970 | $30.75 |
| Rhode Island | $63,910 | $30.73 |
| Michigan | $63,590 | $30.57 |
| North Dakota | $62,540 | $30.07 |
| Indiana | $62,160 | $29.88 |
| Kentucky | $61,940 | $29.78 |
| Wisconsin | $61,670 | $29.65 |
| Minnesota | $61,350 | $29.49 |
| Ohio | $61,200 | $29.42 |
| Nebraska | $61,150 | $29.40 |
| Iowa | $60,980 | $29.32 |
| Florida | $60,420 | $29.05 |
| Alabama | $60,350 | $29.02 |
| Illinois | $60,180 | $28.93 |
| Louisiana | $59,630 | $28.67 |
| Pennsylvania | $58,950 | $28.34 |
| North Carolina | $58,610 | $28.18 |
| Utah | $57,720 | $27.75 |
| Georgia | $56,920 | $27.37 |
| Maryland | $56,590 | $27.21 |
| Tennessee | $56,110 | $26.98 |
| Colorado | $54,970 | $26.43 |
| Idaho | $54,860 | $26.37 |
| Texas | $54,080 | $26.00 |
| South Dakota | $52,680 | $25.33 |
| Missouri | $52,330 | $25.16 |
| Mississippi | $51,580 | $24.80 |
| Virginia | $49,420 | $23.76 |
| Arkansas | $46,850 | $22.52 |
Regional Patterns
The Northeast and West Coast generally offer higher salaries, reflecting higher costs of living and concentrated industries requiring specialized skills. The South and Midwest often feature lower wages, aligned with lower living costs and differing industrial demands.
Maximizing Your Earning Potential
Tool and die makers can enhance their earning potential by pursuing advanced certifications, specializing in high-demand areas, and seeking employment in states with higher wages. Continuous learning and skill development remain key strategies.
Bottom Line
Tool and die maker salaries vary widely across the United States, influenced by regional economic factors, industry demands, and cost of living. Understanding these factors can help professionals make informed decisions about their careers in this field.
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CredentialGuide Editorial Team
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