Kansas · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in Kansas
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Kansas. Lineworkers lead at a $101,620 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $608,279 ahead of the average college route. Every number is BLS data; every trade links to its full state breakdown.
Reviewed by Brad Zemke, third-generation tradesman, 20+ years in the field.
| # | Trade | Median | Per hour | 10-yr edge vs college |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lineworker | $101,620 | $48.86/hr | $608,279 |
| 2 | Elevator Installer | $84,760 | $40.75/hr | $534,885 |
| 3 | Aircraft Mechanic | $80,270 | $38.59/hr | $416,024 |
| 4 | Wind Turbine Technician | $78,240 | $37.62/hr | $417,651 |
| 5 | Electrician | $65,860 | $31.66/hr | $283,320 |
| 6 | Plumber | $65,220 | $31.36/hr | $287,556 |
| 7 | HVAC Technician | $60,460 | $29.07/hr | $261,623 |
| 8 | Diesel Mechanic | $59,460 | $28.59/hr | $249,423 |
| 9 | CDL Truck Driver | $58,920 | $28.33/hr | $281,187 |
| 10 | Carpenter | $56,960 | $27.38/hr | $211,435 |
| 11 | Heavy Equipment Operator | $51,620 | $24.82/hr | $168,864 |
| 12 | Welder | $49,410 | $23.75/hr | $166,945 |
| 13 | Auto Mechanic | $47,790 | $22.98/hr | $146,205 |
"10-yr edge" = cumulative net earnings advantage over the average bachelor's path after 10 years, per our documented model. Elevator installer pay is real, but union apprenticeship entry is competitive.
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