Carpenter Salary 2025: $60,580 Median, Fast Growth, and How to Start
The median carpenter earns $60,580 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $29 an hour, with the middle 50% of the workforce bringing in between $40,410 and $99,910. For 670,090 carpenters across the country, wages vary sharply by location and specialty.
How much Carpenters earn
The national median annual wage for carpenters is $60,580. The mean hourly wage is $31.55, but most carpenters are paid by the hour. The bottom 10% earn about $19.43 an hour ($40,410 per year), while the top 10% take home more than $48.03 per hour ($99,910).
Pay also depends on the type of carpentry. Residential carpenters often earn less than those in commercial or industrial settings, and union membership can lift wages significantly. The BLS data does not break down by specialty, but these overall figures cover all carpenters.
- National median: $60,580 per year ($29.13/hr)
- National mean: $65,630 per year ($31.55/hr)
- 10th percentile: $40,410 ($19.43/hr)
- 90th percentile: $99,910 ($48.03/hr)
- Total employed: 670,090
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state for carpenters is Hawaii, with an average annual wage of $85,280. Illinois ($79,000), California ($75,920), Massachusetts ($75,200), and Washington ($74,190) round out the top five. Cost of living plays a role, but these states also tend to have stronger unions and commercial construction markets.
At the low end, South Dakota carpenters average $48,140, Arkansas $47,760, and Oklahoma $46,910. Those states have a lower cost of living, but the gap is larger than the difference in expenses. If you're willing to relocate, the data shows moving to a high-paying state can boost income by $30,000 or more.
How to become a Carpenter
Most carpenters learn through a 3- or 4-year apprenticeship combined with classroom instruction. Unions and contractor associations sponsor the vast majority of programs. You'll need a high school diploma or GED, and to be at least 18. Apprentices start at 40-50% of journeyman wages and get raises every six months as skills improve.
Non-union options exist: you can start as a helper, enroll in a trade school or community college program, or work toward a carpentry certificate. Some states require a contractor license for independent work, but no nationwide license exists. Experience and a solid tool set matter more than credentials.
- 1. Get a high school diploma or GED.
- 2. Enter a union apprenticeship (typically 3-4 years, paid on-the-job training).
- 3. Or start as a laborer/helper for a non-union contractor.
- 4. Complete OSHA 10/30 safety training (often required on job sites).
- 5. Optionally earn a trade school certificate (e.g., from a community college).
- 6. Specialize (framing, finish, formwork, etc.) to increase earning potential.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 4.5% employment growth for carpenters from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 74,100 new openings each year, mostly due to retirements and workers leaving the trade. Population growth and remodeling demand will drive the increase.
Residential construction is sensitive to interest rates, so year-to-year hiring can be volatile. But long-term, carpenters with experience in green building, commercial work, or remodeling will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
How much do carpenters make per hour?
The national median hourly wage is $29.13. The bottom 10% earn about $19.43/hr, and the top 10% over $48.03/hr. Actual rates vary by state, union status, and specialty.
Is carpentry a good career in 2025?
Yes, for those who like hands-on work. The median salary of $60,580 is solid for a job that doesn't require a four-year degree. Fast growth (4.5%) and 74,100 annual openings mean steady demand. But it is physically demanding and subject to construction cycles.
How long does it take to become a carpenter?
Most apprenticeships last 3 to 4 years. You can start earning immediately as an apprentice at a reduced wage. Some people become proficient faster by taking trade school courses, but full journeyman status typically requires 4 years of on-the-job training.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Carpenters data.