Drafters, All Other Salary 2025: $63,520 Median, -6.9% Job Decline
The median salary for Drafters, All Other is $63,520 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $31 an hour. Most earn between $43,420 (10th percentile) and $99,380 (90th percentile), so the top end is solid, but the bottom end barely beats the national median for all occupations ($48,060). The occupation employs 14,470 people across the U.S., and it's expected to shrink by 6.9% from 2024 to 2034.
How much Drafters, All Other earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $68,250 for Drafters, All Other. The median $63,520 is the sweet spot: half earn more, half less. The lowest 10% bring in $43,420 or less, while the top 10% break $99,380. Experience and specialization matter — drafters in engineering or manufacturing services tend to land at the high end.
Hourly, the average is about $31. Entry-level positions might start around $21 an hour, while experienced drafters can hit $48 or more.
- Median annual: $63,520
- Mean annual: $68,250
- 10th percentile: $43,420
- 90th percentile: $99,380
- Mean hourly: $31
Pay by state
Where you work heavily influences your paycheck. The highest-paying state is New Jersey with an average annual wage of $77,840. California follows at $73,390, then Wisconsin ($73,040), Washington ($72,800), and New York ($72,190). These are the only states above $72,000.
On the lower end, Oklahoma averages $49,920, Arkansas $48,020, and Alabama $47,320. That's a $30,520 gap between the highest and lowest states. The cost of living partly explains the spread, but the differences are stark.
How to become Drafters, All Other
Most drafting positions require an associate degree in drafting, engineering technology, or a related field. Community colleges and technical schools offer these programs, often taking two years. Some employers accept a certificate from a vocational school, but an associate degree is more common.
Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software is essential. Skills in BIM (Building Information Modeling) for architectural drafters or 3D modeling for mechanical drafters are valuable. No state license is required, but certification through the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) can boost your resume. Entry-level drafters typically start under supervision and advance with experience.
- Earn an associate degree in drafting or related field (2 years).
- Learn CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit).
- Consider ADDA certification for credibility.
- Start in an entry-level role under experienced drafters.
Job outlook
Employment for Drafters, All Other is projected to decline 6.9% from 2024 to 2034. That's a loss of roughly 1,000 jobs over the decade, though about 1,300 openings per year will arise from workers leaving the occupation or retiring. The decline is driven by automation and CAD tools that reduce the need for manual drafting. Drafters specializing in niche fields or with strong CAD skills may have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Drafters, All Other in 2025?
The national median salary is $63,520 per year, with a mean of $68,250. Typical hourly pay is $31.
How do you become a Drafter, All Other?
You typically need an associate degree in drafting, engineering technology, or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software is required. Voluntary certification from ADDA can help.
What is the job outlook for Drafters, All Other?
The occupation is declining, with a projected -6.9% growth from 2024 to 2034. However, about 1,300 job openings per year are expected due to replacement needs.
Which states pay the most for Drafters, All Other?
New Jersey ($77,840), California ($73,390), Wisconsin ($73,040), Washington ($72,800), and New York ($72,190) are the top-paying states.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Drafters, All Other data.