Utah · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in Utah
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Utah. Lineworkers lead at a $101,220 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $624,619 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 | $101,220 | $48.66/hr | $624,619 |
| 2 | Elevator Installer | $81,060 | $38.97/hr | $461,160 |
| 3 | Aircraft Mechanic | $70,160 | $33.73/hr | $335,539 |
| 4 | Diesel Mechanic | $64,350 | $30.94/hr | $292,609 |
| 5 | Wind Turbine Technician (national est.) | $64,120 | $30.83/hr | $306,685 |
| 6 | Electrician | $62,000 | $29.81/hr | $254,379 |
| 7 | Plumber | $61,900 | $29.76/hr | $249,954 |
| 8 | Heavy Equipment Operator | $60,740 | $29.20/hr | $241,784 |
| 9 | CDL Truck Driver | $60,620 | $29.14/hr | $289,377 |
| 10 | HVAC Technician | $58,730 | $28.24/hr | $247,081 |
| 11 | Welder | $58,380 | $28.07/hr | $250,906 |
| 12 | Carpenter | $52,360 | $25.17/hr | $170,935 |
| 13 | Auto Mechanic | $46,570 | $22.39/hr | $135,977 |
"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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