CollegevsTrades

Nevada · BLS OEWS May 2025

The highest paying trades in Nevada

Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Nevada. Elevator Installers lead at a $141,950 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $980,496 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 Elevator Installer $141,950 $68.25/hr $980,496
2 Electrician $73,570 $35.37/hr $368,113
3 Diesel Mechanic $68,410 $32.89/hr $334,693
4 Carpenter $62,380 $29.99/hr $279,257
5 Plumber $61,610 $29.62/hr $272,187
6 Welder $61,520 $29.58/hr $294,527
7 HVAC Technician $60,510 $29.09/hr $269,513

"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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