Drafter salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Drafter in United States is approximately 47,017 USD (47,064 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Drafter do?

A drafter is a professional who specializes in creating technical drawings and plans for various industries such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. They work closely with engineers, architects, and designers to convert their ideas and concepts into detailed drawings using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Drafters are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of these drawings, including dimensions, materials, and specifications. Their primary duties include interpreting sketches, blueprints, and specifications provided by engineers or architects, creating 2D and 3D models, preparing layouts, and generating detailed drawings for production or construction purposes. They may also collaborate with other professionals to review and revise designs, make necessary modifications, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Skills: Drafter, CAD Designer, Technical Drawing, Drafting Engineer, Architectural Draftsman, Engineering Design
Job industry: Architecture and engineering

How much does Drafter make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Drafter a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Drafter is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Drafter?

High salary for Drafter would be somewhere between 51,719 USD and 68,175 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Drafter in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 47,017 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,918 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 904 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 23 USD per hour
By working as Drafter a person can save up to 1,642 USD per month or 19,704 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Drafter

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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