The average salary of a carpenter in the United States is $51,390 per year, or about $24.71 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and industry, with the top 10% earning over $78,000 annually.
National Average Salary for Carpenters in the U.S.
The national average hourly pay for carpenters is $28.51, translating to an annual salary of $59,310 as of 2024. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) confirms that this number reflects full-time workers in the construction industry. The average yearly salary for carpenters has increased due to more new home construction and commercial development.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Carpenter Salary Overview | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (Median, 2024) | $28.51 | $59,310 | National median |
| United States (Mean, 2023) | $29.31 | $60,970 | National mean |
| Texas (Average) | $21.89 | $44,690 | Statewide average |
| Houston, TX (Average) | $24.51 | ~$51,000 | Based on hourly wage |
| Houston, TX (Union Carpenter) | $14.69 | ~$30,555 | Union wage, may vary by experience |
| Houston, TX (Salary.com) | – | $63,816 (median) | Range: $55,149–$73,895 |
| Top-Paying States (e.g., Hawaii) | – | Up to $77,070 | Highest state average |
The carpenter job market is expected to grow steadily, especially in regions with population growth and housing development.
How Location Affects a Carpenter’s Salary
Location plays a major role in carpenter wages. For example, carpenters in California, New York, and Massachusetts report the highest earnings due to higher costs of living and unionized construction sectors. In contrast, South Carolina and Texas typically offer lower average pay, reflecting local demand and housing prices.
Highest-Paying Cities (Examples):
- San Francisco, CA
- Boston, MA
- New York, NY
- Honolulu, HI
- Seattle, WA
In these cities, carpenters earn up to $70,000–$80,000 annually, especially in commercial projects or government contracts.
Union vs. Non-Union Carpenter Salaries
Union carpenters are typically paid higher wages and receive benefits like healthcare, retirement plans, and job protection. In major cities like Chicago or New York, union carpenters can earn over $35 per hour, while non-union workers in smaller towns may earn $18–$22 per hour.
Example:
- Union carpenter in New Jersey: $65,000–$75,000
- Non-union carpenter in rural areas: $35,000–$45,000
Union work also often guarantees consistent hours and full-time employment, especially in large-scale projects.
Carpenter Salary by Experience Level
Carpenter salaries increase with experience and certification. Most carpenters start as apprentices, move to journeyman status, and may become master carpenters or site foremen.
Pay by Level:
- Apprentice: $15–$20/hour (about $31,000–$41,000 yearly)
- Journeyman: $24–$30/hour (about $50,000–$62,000 yearly)
- Master Carpenter / Foreman: $32–$42/hour (about $65,000–$87,000 yearly)
A high school diploma, formal training, and knowledge of blueprints, tools, and job duties like building walls, doors, and windows increase earnings potential.
Specialized Carpenter Roles and Their Salaries
Specialized carpenters often earn more due to advanced skills or niche industry work.
Examples of High-Paying Specialties:
- Finish Carpenters: Install fine woodwork like floors, windows, and trim – earn up to $70,000
- Framers: Build the structure of buildings – earn $50,000–$60,000
- Cabinetmakers: Craft and install cabinets – earn $45,000–$58,000
- Scenic Carpenters (TV/stage sets): Earn $50,000+ in major cities
- Restoration Carpenters: Work on historic buildings – often paid premium rates
Specialists in California and New York tend to earn more due to project budgets and company demand.
Overtime Pay and Annual Earnings Boost
Most hourly carpenters are eligible for overtime pay, which equals 1.5 times their hourly wage for work beyond 40 hours per week. This can raise annual earnings by 10–30% during busy construction periods.
Example:
- Base: $25/hour × 40 hrs = $1,000/week
- With 10 hrs overtime: $25 × 1.5 × 10 = $375 extra
- Total: $1,375/week → Over $70,000 annually if sustained
Overtime is common during large projects or peak summer months, especially in commercial or residential construction.
Future Outlook for Carpenter Salaries
Carpenter salaries are expected to grow in line with housing demand and infrastructure spending. According to the BLS, jobs for carpenters will grow 2% from 2023 to 2033, with more new home construction and renovation work driving demand.
During economic downturns, salaries may stagnate or drop, but carpenters with multiple skill sets (e.g., installation, repair, blueprint reading) can find steady work.
Typical Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about carpenter salaries.
How do carpenter salaries compare between residential and commercial construction?
Commercial carpenters earn more than residential due to larger budgets and higher technical demands.
Do carpenters get paid overtime, and how does it affect annual earnings?
Yes, overtime can significantly increase yearly income, especially during peak construction months.
What is the salary progression from apprentice to master carpenter?
Apprentices earn 50–60% of a journeyman’s wage. Journeymen earn full rate, and masters earn 20–40% more.
How do economic downturns affect carpenter salaries and jobs?
Job availability drops during downturns, but skilled carpenters may still find work in repairs, maintenance, or remodeling.
Final Notes
The average carpenter in the U.S. earns around $59,310 per year, but actual pay varies by location, experience, and specialty. Cities with high costs of living and union presence offer the highest salaries. Carpentry remains a strong career path with steady job demand, especially for those with diverse skills and willingness to travel for high-paying projects.
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