Top 10 Cities for Skilled Trades Jobs: Where Big Projects Bring Big Opportunities
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, skilled trades jobs are projected to grow by 10% over the next decade, creating over 3 million job openings across multiple industries. From construction and electrical work to HVAC and welding, skilled labor is the backbone of urban development and infrastructure expansion.
If you're looking for high-paying skilled trades jobs, these top 10 U.S. cities are booming with construction projects, industrial developments, and renewable energy expansion, offering steady demand, competitive wages, and long-term career opportunities.
1. Nashville, TN – Booming Construction & Infrastructure Growth
Nashville isn’t just the capital of country music—it’s also a hotspot for construction jobs. The East Bank transformation project is reshaping downtown with new residential, commercial, and green spaces.
In-demand trades: Construction laborers, electricians, HVAC installers
Average salary: $50,000–$75,000 per year
Job growth: Strong demand due to ongoing urban expansion
2. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – Aviation & Industrial Expansion
With a $20 billion expansion of DFW International Airport and booming warehouse construction, Dallas-Fort Worth is a top city for skilled laborers.
In-demand trades: Electricians, heavy equipment operators, HVAC technicians
Average salary: $55,000–$80,000 per year
Job growth: 12% increase in skilled trades job postings annually
3. Phoenix, AZ – High-Tech & Renewable Energy Hub
Phoenix is a rising hub for semiconductor manufacturing and solar energy farms, fueling high demand for electricians, welders, and construction workers.
In-demand trades: Electricians, construction laborers, welders
Average salary: $60,000+ for experienced workers
Job growth: One of the highest employment rates for skilled trades in the U.S.
4. Denver, CO – Infrastructure & Transit Upgrades
Major projects like the National Western Center redevelopment and Denver transit expansions are creating new opportunities for welders, pipefitters, and concrete specialists.
In-demand trades: Concrete workers, plumbers, electrical technicians
Average salary: $55,000–$85,000 per year
Job growth: Rapid expansion in public infrastructure projects
5. Atlanta, GA – Commercial & Residential Growth
Atlanta’s skyline is changing with Microsoft’s new campus and the Beltline redevelopment, driving 15% growth in demand for skilled trades jobs.
In-demand trades: Carpenters, electricians, HVAC professionals
Average salary: $50,000–$78,000 per year
Job growth: Strong demand in the commercial construction sector
6. Seattle, WA – Tech-Driven Construction Boom
Seattle’s light rail expansion and high-tech campus projects are fueling demand for skilled trades professionals, with some of the highest wages in the industry.
In-demand trades: Electricians, welders, HVAC technicians
Average salary: $65,000–$90,000 per year
Job growth: High demand driven by infrastructure expansion
7. Charlotte, NC – Industrial & Residential Expansion
Charlotte’s growing financial and manufacturing sectors require skilled trades workers for new residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
In-demand trades: Carpenters, electricians, plumbers
Average salary: $50,000–$75,000 per year
Job growth: 10% projected increase over the next five years
8. Las Vegas, NV – Entertainment & Resort Development
With major resort expansions, stadium builds, and the MSG Sphere project, Las Vegas is a prime location for skilled laborers.
In-demand trades: Plumbers, welders, HVAC technicians
Average salary: $55,000–$82,000 per year
Job growth: Some of the highest growth rates in construction jobs
9. Austin, TX – Tesla Gigafactory & Urban Growth
Austin’s rapid expansion, fueled by the $17 billion Tesla Gigafactory, is driving demand for electricians, heavy equipment operators, and laborers.
In-demand trades: Electricians, construction laborers, heavy equipment operators
Average salary: $60,000–$85,000 per year
Job growth: 14% increase in skilled labor demand
10. Salt Lake City, UT – Renewable Energy & Infrastructure
Salt Lake City’s wind and solar energy projects, along with transportation upgrades, are creating steady opportunities for skilled workers.
In-demand trades: Electricians, welders, construction workers
Average salary: $55,000–$80,000 per year
Job growth: 11% increase in skilled labor demand
Find Your Next Skilled Trades Job Today
These top 10 cities for skilled trades jobs offer incredible career growth, competitive wages, and job security. Whether you’re an electrician, carpenter, welder, or HVAC technician, these urban centers provide massive opportunities in booming industries.