Across U.S. metros, riggers typically earn $3,405 more a year than machinists (6%). In the 70 metros where BLS publishes both, machinists earn more in 35 and riggers in 35.
| Machinist | Rigger | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $57,050 | $60,455 |
| Lowest metro median | $29,310 | $36,880 |
| Highest metro median | $84,410 | $169,480 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.0% | +3.9% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 26,100 | 1,700 |
| Self-employed | 0% | — |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 108 | 79 |
| Metros with pay data | 361 | 70 |
On safety, machinists report more injuries that cause missed work (108 vs. 79 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 machinists out-earn riggers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where riggers out-earn machinists the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Machinist
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
Rigger
Set up or repair rigging for construction projects, manufacturing plants, logging yards, ships and shipyards, or for the entertainment industry.
Compare one trade across two cities →