What Is the Median Pay for Carpenters in the United States?
The median pay for carpenters stands at $60,580 per year, or $29.12 per hour, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
That single number only tells part of the story. The pay distribution for carpenters spans a wide range, reflecting differences in skill, geography, specialty, and union status. Here’s how the full wage spectrum breaks down:
| Percentile | Hourly Wage | Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry-level) | $18.00 | $37,440 |
| 25th | $22.18 | $46,130 |
| 50th (median) | $29.12 | $60,580 |
| 75th | $34.75 | $72,290 |
| 90th (top earners) | $45.47 | $94,580 |
The middle 50% of carpenters earn between $46,130 and $72,290 annually. That’s a $26,000 spread, which means your actual earnings depend heavily on where you work, what you build, and how long you’ve been doing it.
Hourly vs. annual pay breakdown
Most carpenters are paid hourly rather than salaried, which makes the hourly figure ($29.12 at the median) more practical for day-to-day comparisons. Annual figures assume roughly 2,080 hours of work per year (40 hours per week, 52 weeks). In practice, seasonal slowdowns, weather delays, and gaps between projects mean many carpenters work fewer than 2,080 hours. Conversely, overtime during busy stretches can push annual totals well above the standard calculation.
How carpenter pay compares to other skilled trades
Carpentry sits in the middle of the skilled trades pay spectrum. The BLS median of $60,580 for carpenters is above the national median for all occupations. Salary.com reports an average carpenter pay of $60,131 per year as of September 2026, closely aligning with BLS data. Source: Payscale Electricians and plumbers generally earn somewhat higher medians, while painters and drywall installers tend to earn less. For a deeper look at how these numbers translate into long-term earning power, see our guide on carpentry income and growth potential.
How Does Carpenter Pay Vary by Experience Level?
Entry-level carpenters with less than one year of experience average $18.18 per hour, while experienced carpenters with 10 to 15 years earn around $36.36 per hour, roughly doubling their pay over a career.
The progression from apprentice to top earner follows a clear pattern, with the biggest jumps occurring after completing an apprenticeship and again after reaching senior or supervisory roles.
Apprentice carpenter wages
Carpenters with less than one year of experience average $18.18 per hour in total compensation, according to Payscale data. Source: Payscale Those with one to four years earn $22.55 per hour. BLS-based data from SkilledTradesIQ places entry-level carpenters (0 to 2 years) at $18.54 per hour, or about $38,750 annually. Source: SkilledTradesIQ Apprentice wages are typically set as a percentage of journeyman rates, starting around 40% to 50% and increasing with each completed training period. If you’re building a resume to land an apprenticeship, our guide on apprenticeship resume strategies covers how to present your skills even without formal trade experience.
Journeyman carpenter pay
Mid-career carpenters with five to ten years of experience earn approximately $23.10 per hour, or $48,040 annually, per SkilledTradesIQ data. Source: SkilledTradesIQ This aligns closely with the BLS 25th-to-50th percentile range. Pay jumps fastest after apprenticeship completion, when independence, blueprint reading, and crew leadership start to matter more.
Master carpenter earnings
Experienced carpenters with 10 to 15 years earn around $36.36 per hour, or $75,620 annually. Top earners with 15-plus years, specialty skills, or union membership can reach $47.20 per hour or $98,370 and above. Source: SkilledTradesIQ Foreman and lead carpenter roles are often reported around $42 to $55 per hour, or $87,000 to $114,000 annually.
Which States Pay Carpenters the Highest Wages?
Hawaii leads the nation with an annual mean wage of $83,250 for carpenters, followed by New Jersey at $79,180 and Washington at $75,150, according to BLS state-level data.
High wages don’t always mean high take-home pay after living expenses. Still, the state-by-state differences are dramatic enough to influence career decisions and relocation planning.
Top 10 highest-paying states for carpenters
| Rank | State | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | $40.03 | $83,250 |
| 2 | New Jersey | $38.07 | $79,180 |
| 3 | Washington | $36.13 | $75,150 |
| 4 | Massachusetts | $36.01 | $74,900 |
| 5 | Illinois | $35.58 | $74,010 |
Multiple sources broadly agree that Hawaii, New Jersey, Washington, Massachusetts, and Illinois are consistently among the highest-paying states for carpenters.
Cost of living adjustments by state
Hawaii’s $83,250 mean wage looks impressive, but the state’s cost of living is among the highest in the country. Washington and Massachusetts also carry above-average living costs. A carpenter earning $75,150 in Washington may have similar purchasing power to one earning $60,000 in a lower-cost state like Texas or Ohio. Always compare wages against local housing, transportation, and tax costs before making relocation decisions.
Regional demand and wage trends
Employment levels vary significantly across high-paying states. Washington employs 28,690 carpenters, while Hawaii has just 5,520. Source: BLS OEWS A smaller labor pool in Hawaii means fewer openings despite higher pay. States with large construction sectors, like Washington and Illinois, offer both strong wages and more abundant job opportunities.
How Does Union Membership Affect Carpenter Pay?
Union construction workers earned median weekly earnings of $1,530 compared to $1,051 for non-union workers in 2024, a 45.6% gap that makes union membership one of the biggest single factors in carpenter compensation.
The union pay advantage goes well beyond the hourly rate. Benefits, pensions, and paid training add substantial value that non-union carpenters often don’t receive.
Union vs. non-union wage comparison
Government labor data show union construction workers earn 12% to 20% more than non-union workers in base wages, translating to about $8 to $10 per hour more for skilled trades like carpentry. Source: LumberFi A concrete example from Ohio: union carpenters at $29.56 per hour versus non-union at $23.50 per hour, a difference of $6.06 per hour or 25.8%. Source: TradeEarnings
| Compensation Component | Union Carpenter | Non-Union Carpenter |
|---|---|---|
| Base hourly wage | $29–$34 | $22–$27 |
| Benefits value (per hour) | $8–$15 | $0–$5 |
| Total package (per hour) | $42–$65 | $22–$32 |
| Pension | Yes (defined benefit common) | Rarely offered |
| Health insurance | Comprehensive, employer-paid | Limited or self-funded |
| Paid training | Yes | Varies |
Sources: SkilledTradesIQ, Skillit
Benefits and total compensation packages
Union carpenters’ total compensation can be much higher than base pay because pension, health insurance, and paid apprenticeship training can add about $8 to $15 per hour in value beyond wages. Source: SkilledTradesIQ In strong union markets, total package rates can run about $42 to $65 per hour, with some local agreements showing a package of $45.09 per hour and a base rate of $33.46 per hour plus benefits. Source: Skillit
Union apprenticeship pay scales
Union apprenticeships typically start at 50% to 60% of journeyman wages and increase with each completed training period. One industry estimate puts the median union journeyman “total package” around $56.12 per hour equivalent. Source: SkilledTradesIQ Right-to-work states may have lower union wages and benefits. Source: Carpenters
What Do Carpenters Earn by Specialty or Focus Area?
Specialty matters significantly. Industrial carpenters earn $67,000 to $93,000 annually, while framing carpenters earn $41,000 to $62,000, a spread of more than $30,000 at the top end.
| Specialty | Hourly Range | Annual Range |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial carpenter | $32.50–$45.00 | $67,000–$93,000 |
| Commercial carpenter | $28.00–$38.00 | $58,000–$79,000 |
| Finish carpenter | $25.00–$36.00 | $52,000–$75,000 |
| Formwork carpenter | $22.00–$32.00 | $45,000–$66,000 |
| Framing carpenter | $20.00–$30.00 | $41,000–$62,000 |
Residential vs. commercial carpenter pay
BLS data show nonresidential building construction pays a median of $59,020 compared to $47,820 for residential building construction. Source: BLS That’s a gap of more than $11,000 per year. Commercial projects tend to involve larger crews, stricter safety requirements, and more complex blueprints, all of which command higher wages.
Finish carpentry vs. rough framing wages
One market guide reports rough carpenters and framers often earn $22 to $35 per hour, while finish carpenters earn $28 to $44 per hour. Source: SkilledTradesIQ Finish work requires more precision, specialized tools, and aesthetic judgment, which translates directly into higher pay. Cabinetmakers earn approximately $72,000 annually, and restoration carpenters about $60,000.
Self-employed carpenter earnings potential
Self-employed carpenters set their own rates and can earn significantly more per hour than employees, though they absorb costs for tools, insurance, vehicle expenses, and periods without work. Industry practitioners typically report billing rates of $40 to $75 per hour for independent finish carpentry and custom work, though net income after expenses varies widely.
How Does Overtime and Project-Based Work Impact Carpenter Income?
Carpenters who regularly work overtime can add $7,000 or more to their annual income, with some estimates showing 10 hours of weekly overtime over 20 weeks adding $10,000-plus to yearly earnings.
Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek, and some union agreements trigger overtime after 8 hours in a single day. At a base rate of $25 per hour, 10 overtime hours per week adds $375 to weekly pay, pushing annual earnings over $70,000 if sustained year-round. Source: Tallo
Prevailing wage rates for public projects
Government-funded construction projects require prevailing wages, which are often set at or near union scale. These rates can be significantly higher than private-sector wages in the same area. Carpenters who pursue public works projects, including infrastructure, schools, and government buildings, often see base rates 20% to 40% above market averages.
Seasonal income fluctuations
One salary source notes that overtime can raise annual earnings by 10% to 30% during busy construction periods. Source: Tallo The flip side is that winter months, rainy seasons, and economic slowdowns can reduce hours significantly. Carpenters in northern states may experience several weeks of reduced work each year, which makes overtime during peak months essential for hitting annual income targets.
Per diem and travel pay for out-of-town work
Project-based work can raise earnings when carpenters are assigned to jobs with longer shifts, peak-season demand, or travel and per diem arrangements. Industry practitioners typically report per diem rates of $50 to $100 per day for out-of-town assignments, plus mileage or lodging reimbursement. These non-wage payments can add thousands of dollars in effective compensation over the course of a year.
What Is the Job Outlook and Wage Growth for Carpenters?
BLS projects about 4% to 4.5% employment growth for carpenters from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 74,100 openings per year driven primarily by worker replacement rather than new positions.
The current employment base sits at roughly 959,000 carpenter jobs. Source: BLS The projected net gain of about 43,100 jobs over the decade is modest, but the annual opening figure of 74,100 reflects the reality that many carpenters retire, change careers, or leave the trade each year.
Projected job openings and replacement needs
The 74,100 annual openings figure is important context. Even in a slow-growth occupation, replacement demand creates consistent opportunities. Residential remodeling, infrastructure investment, and commercial construction all contribute to steady hiring needs.
Wage growth trends over the past decade
Carpenter wages have risen steadily. The BLS median of $60,580 per year represents meaningful growth compared to earlier years. Salary.com’s September 2026 average of $60,131 closely tracks the BLS figure, suggesting wages have stabilized at this level after a period of increases.
Impact of automation and prefabrication on carpenter roles
Prefabrication and modular construction are shifting some carpentry work from job sites to factory settings. Industry practitioners generally observe that these changes reduce demand for basic framing labor while increasing demand for carpenters who can read complex blueprints, operate CNC equipment, and handle precision assembly. Carpenters who adapt to these technologies tend to command higher wages.
How Do Certifications and Additional Skills Affect Carpenter Pay?
Carpenters with specialized certifications and skills consistently earn at the upper end of the pay scale, with LEED-certified or green building carpenters earning approximately $75,000 annually.
BLS data show that some of the highest-paying settings for carpentry skills include chemical manufacturing (median $109,560), motion picture and sound recording industries ($104,730), and scientific research and development ($96,740). Source: BLS These niche sectors reward specialized knowledge far beyond standard residential work.
High-value certifications for carpenters
OSHA safety certifications (OSHA 10 and OSHA 30) are baseline requirements for many commercial job sites. LEED credentials signal expertise in sustainable building practices. Industry practitioners report that carpenters holding multiple certifications are more likely to be hired for higher-paying commercial and industrial projects.
Skills that command premium pay
Welding, blueprint reading, CNC operation, and concrete formwork expertise all push carpenters into higher pay brackets. Foreman and lead carpenter roles, which require crew management and scheduling skills, pay $42 to $55 per hour or more.
Continuing education and wage progression
The data consistently show that pay jumps fastest after apprenticeship completion and again when carpenters take on supervisory or specialty roles. Investing in continuing education, whether through union training programs, manufacturer certifications, or community college courses, accelerates this progression.
What Benefits and Non-Wage Compensation Do Carpenters Typically Receive?
Union carpenters receive benefits worth $8 to $15 per hour on top of base wages, while non-union carpenters often receive limited or no benefits beyond their hourly rate.
Total compensation, not just the hourly wage, determines whether carpentry can support a family. The gap between union and non-union benefits packages is one of the largest in the skilled trades.
Health insurance and retirement benefits
Union carpenters typically receive employer-paid health insurance and defined-benefit pension plans. These benefits can add $15,000 to $30,000 per year in value. Non-union carpenters frequently need to purchase their own health insurance and fund their own retirement accounts, which significantly reduces their effective compensation.
Paid time off and sick leave
Union agreements commonly include paid holidays, vacation days, and sick leave. Non-union carpenters, especially those working for smaller contractors, may receive no paid time off. This means every day off is a day without income, further widening the effective pay gap.
Tool allowances and equipment reimbursement
Some employers and union agreements provide tool allowances or equipment reimbursement. Carpenters typically invest $2,000 to $5,000 or more in personal tools over the course of their careers. Employers who cover these costs effectively increase total compensation without changing the hourly rate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
These answers address the most common questions about pay for carpenters, drawing on BLS data and industry salary guides.
How much do carpenters make per hour?
The median hourly wage for carpenters is $29.12, according to BLS May 2025 data. The range spans from $18.00 per hour at the 10th percentile to $45.47 per hour at the 90th percentile. Source: BLS
Do union carpenters make more than non-union carpenters?
Yes. Union construction workers earned median weekly earnings of $1,530 versus $1,051 for non-union workers in 2024, a 45.6% gap. Source: EAS Carpenters When benefits are included, the total compensation gap is even wider.
Which state pays carpenters the most?
Hawaii leads with an annual mean wage of $83,250 for carpenters, followed by New Jersey ($79,180) and Washington ($75,150). Source: BLS OEWS However, cost of living in these states is also above average.
How long does it take to become a journeyman carpenter?
Most carpenter apprenticeships last three to four years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. After completing an apprenticeship, carpenters typically qualify as journeymen and see a significant pay increase.
Can carpenters make six figures?
Yes. BLS data show the 90th percentile for carpenters at $94,580 annually, and top earners with 15-plus years of experience or specialty skills can exceed $98,370. Source: SkilledTradesIQ Foreman roles, union membership, and overtime push many carpenters past $100,000.
Is carpentry a good career financially?
The median wage of $60,580 is above the national median for all occupations. BLS projects about 74,100 annual openings over the next decade, providing steady employment opportunities. Source: BLS Combined with benefits and overtime potential, carpentry offers a solid financial foundation.
Do finish carpenters earn more than framing carpenters?
Generally, yes. Finish carpenters earn $25 to $36 per hour ($52,000 to $75,000 annually), while framing carpenters earn $20 to $30 per hour ($41,000 to $62,000). Source: SkilledTradesIQ The precision and skill required for finish work commands a premium.
How much does overtime add to a carpenter’s annual income?
Indeed reports an average of $7,015 in overtime per year for carpenters. Working 10 hours of overtime weekly over 20 weeks can add roughly $10,000 or more to annual income, depending on base rate. Overtime can raise annual earnings by 10% to 30% during busy construction periods. Source: Tallo
