How much does a CNC Machinist make?
CNC Machinists work with machines to create parts for different products. They earn a good salary for their skills and experience. The average yearly salary for a CNC Machinist is $54,068. This means half of CNC Machinists earn more and half earn less.
Most CNC Machinists earn between $44,000 and $60,000 each year. Here is a look at the salary breakdown:
- About 5.66% earn less than $36,000
- Around 8.91% earn between $36,000 and $40,000
- Approximately 11.80% earn between $40,000 and $44,000
- About 13.96% earn between $44,000 and $48,000
- About 15.70% earn between $48,000 and $52,000
- Around 10.85% earn between $52,000 and $56,000
- About 12.14% earn between $56,000 and $60,000
- Approximately 6.57% earn between $60,000 and $64,000
- About 4.85% earn between $64,000 and $68,000
- Approximately 2.57% earn between $68,000 and $72,000
- About 2.01% earn more than $72,000
What are the highest paying cities for a CNC Machinist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $74,118
San Francisco offers a vibrant job market for machinists. This city is home to tech giants like Apple and Oracle. Workers enjoy a mix of traditional and cutting-edge machining work.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $69,062
New Haven presents a range of opportunities in machining. Major companies like Stanley Black & Decker offer diverse projects. Workers can find a mix of precision and innovation in their daily tasks.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $66,075
Huntsville is known for its aerospace industry, making it a prime location for machinists. Companies like NASA and defense contractors provide varied and advanced projects. The city offers a dynamic environment for skilled workers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $65,376
Machinists in Los Angeles enjoy a bustling job market. Hollywood and entertainment companies often need custom parts. This city provides diverse and interesting machining tasks.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,236
San Jose's tech industry is booming, offering plenty of opportunities for machinists. Tech companies like Intel and Cisco require skilled professionals. Workers can expect to engage in high-tech machining projects.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $64,169
Seattle's diverse economy includes aerospace and maritime sectors. Companies like Boeing need skilled machinists. The city provides a mix of challenging and rewarding projects.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,046
Minneapolis offers a steady job market for machinists. Major companies in finance and manufacturing look for skilled workers. The city's projects often require precision and attention to detail.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $60,911
Manchester provides a balanced job market for machinists. Companies in the aviation and manufacturing sectors are always in need. Workers can expect a mix of traditional and modern machining tasks.
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Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $60,810
Fort Collins offers a growing job market for machinists. Companies in technology and agriculture need skilled workers. The city's environment supports both precision and innovative machining projects.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $60,733
Des Moines provides a stable job market for machinists. Companies in finance and manufacturing look for skilled professionals. Workers can expect to engage in a mix of diverse and interesting projects.
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What are the best companies a CNC Machinist can work for?

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Madicorp
Average Salary: $103,467
Madicorp offers competitive salaries for CNC machinists. They have locations across the country and are known for their innovative approach. CNC machinists at Madicorp work on the latest machinery, ensuring high-quality output.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $87,324
L3Harris pays well for CNC machinists. This company operates globally and focuses on aerospace and defense. CNC machinists here get to work on exciting projects, often involving advanced technology.
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STROHWIG INDUSTRIES
Average Salary: $80,962
STROHWIG INDUSTRIES provides a solid salary for CNC machinists. They have locations in the Midwest and are a leader in their field. CNC machinists here focus on precision and quality, working in a well-equipped facility.
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Universal Technical Resource Services, INC.
Average Salary: $78,000
Universal Technical Resource Services, INC. offers a good salary for CNC machinists. They have several locations across the country. CNC machinists here work on a variety of projects, ensuring they gain diverse experience.
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Rocket Lab USA
Average Salary: $77,704
Rocket Lab USA provides a competitive salary for CNC machinists. Based on the West Coast, they focus on aerospace. CNC machinists here get to work on cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
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Kratos Defense
Average Salary: $76,536
Kratos Defense offers a fair salary for CNC machinists. They have locations on both coasts and in the Midwest. CNC machinists here work on defense-related projects, ensuring high precision and quality.
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Exact Machine Service, Inc.
Average Salary: $76,439
Exact Machine Service, Inc. provides a solid salary for CNC machinists. They have multiple locations across the country. CNC machinists here work on a variety of machinery, ensuring each project meets high standards.
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Kennametal
Average Salary: $76,116
Kennametal offers a good salary for CNC machinists. They have locations around the country and are a leader in their industry. CNC machinists here work on cutting-edge machinery, ensuring precise and high-quality work.
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Toolcraft Machining
Average Salary: $75,952
Toolcraft Machining provides a fair salary for CNC machinists. They have several locations and focus on high-quality output. CNC machinists here work on various projects, ensuring precision and attention to detail.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $75,191
BWX Technologies offers a competitive salary for CNC machinists. They have locations across the country and focus on aerospace and defense. CNC machinists here work on exciting projects, often involving advanced technology.
How to earn more as a CNC Machinist?
A CNC Machinist can increase earnings through various strategies. Gaining experience helps. It allows for better skills and faster work. Certifications in CNC machining add value. They show dedication and knowledge. Working in industries with high demand can lead to higher pay. Specialization in areas like aerospace or medical devices opens more opportunities. Continuous learning keeps skills sharp. This leads to better job offers and promotions.
Another key factor is relocating to areas with higher wages. Some regions offer better salaries for CNC Machinists. Networking with professionals helps. It can lead to job openings with higher pay. Being open to travel for work can also mean more earnings. Employers may offer higher wages for travel and relocation costs. Building a strong portfolio showcases skills. It attracts better-paying clients and employers.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Gain experience and certifications.
- Work in high-demand industries.
- Specialize in niche areas.
- Relocate to higher-paying regions.
- Network and build a strong portfolio.



