Shoe and Leather Workers Salary 2025: $37,380 Median, 10,730 Jobs
Shoe and Leather Workers in the US earn a median salary of $37,380 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical worker earns about $18 per hour, with half of all workers falling between $26,860 and $49,620. The occupation employs 10,730 people nationally, concentrated in manufacturing and repair settings.
How much Shoe and Leather Workers earn
The median annual wage for Shoe and Leather Workers is $37,380. The top 10% of earners make $49,620 or more, while the bottom 10% earn $26,860 or less. The mean hourly wage is about $18.40.
Pay varies by industry. Workers in shoe repair shops tend to earn less than those in manufacturing plants. Experience and specialization—like working with exotic leathers—can push earnings toward the top of the range.
- Median annual wage: $37,380
- 10th percentile: $26,860
- 90th percentile: $49,620
- Mean hourly wage: $18.40
Pay by state
State-level pay data for Shoe and Leather Workers is limited in recent BLS releases. The highest-paying states are not available, nor are the lowest. Nationally, wages cluster around the median, with most workers earning between $27,000 and $50,000.
How to become Shoe and Leather Worker
Most Shoe and Leather Workers learn on the job through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. A high school diploma is typically required. Formal training programs are rare but can be found at some vocational schools and community colleges.
Key steps include:
1. Complete high school or equivalent.
2. Find an entry-level job at a shoe repair shop, manufacturing plant, or custom leather studio.
3. Learn skills like stitching, cutting, and finishing under a skilled worker.
4. Consider a certificate program in leatherworking or shoe repair (optional).
No state license is generally required, but some employers prefer certification from trade organizations like the Shoe Service Institute of America.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Training: On-the-job or apprenticeship
- Certification: Optional, e.g., from SSIA
- Typical entry: Entry-level worker or apprentice
Job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not project growth for Shoe and Leather Workers from 2024 to 2034. Employment of 10,730 remains small, and demand is largely driven by consumer interest in handmade or repaired goods. The role may face automation pressure in manufacturing, but custom and repair niches could sustain jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Shoe and Leather Workers?
The mean hourly wage is $18.40, with typical workers earning between $12.91 (10th percentile) and $23.86 (90th percentile).
Do Shoe and Leather Workers need a degree?
No college degree is required. A high school diploma is typical, and most workers learn through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
Is there demand for Shoe and Leather Workers?
Growth projections are not available from BLS. The occupation is small (10,730 jobs), and demand is stable in custom and repair work, though manufacturing may decline due to automation.
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 Shoe and Leather Workers data.