Across U.S. metros, building inspectors typically earn $3,380 more a year than ironworkers (5%). In the 151 metros where BLS publishes both, building inspectors earn more in 99 and ironworkers in 51.
| Building Inspector | Ironworker | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $67,380 | $64,000 |
| Lowest metro median | $25,530 | $31,480 |
| Highest metro median | $129,750 | $120,840 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +0.0% | +3.1% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 14,800 | 5,900 |
| Self-employed | 3% | — |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Moderate-term on-the-job training | Apprenticeship |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 58 | 131 |
| Metros with pay data | 338 | 155 |
On safety, ironworkers report more injuries that cause missed work (131 vs. 58 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where building inspectors out-earn ironworkers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where ironworkers out-earn building inspectors the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Building Inspector
Inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations. Inspections may be general in nature or may be limited to a specific area, such as electrical systems or plumbing.
Ironworker
Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
Compare one trade across two cities →