Compare a skilled trade career to your current path, with real salary data. See the gap, share the result.

Pay varies widely by trade, state, and experience, from entry-level helper wages to six figures for experienced specialists and business owners. Use the calculator to see real wage data for your trade and location.
Many do, especially once you count the college debt they avoided. Apprentices earn while they train, so they often come out ahead in their twenties.
Pay is generally highest in states with strong union presence and high construction demand. Cost of living matters too, so compare wages against local costs.
See also: Wage Data by trade and state and Trade Salaries, both from the same BLS source.
Create a free account (or sign in) to save your work, come back anytime, and pick up right where you left off.
Sign Up Free Log In