How much does a Carpenter make?
Carpenters make a solid income and play a key role in construction and home building. The average yearly salary for carpenters stands at $53,540. This shows that their skills are in demand and valued in the industry. With experience and specialization, carpenters can earn even more.
Carpenters who work in areas with higher living costs or specialized skills can earn more. The salary can range from $34,078 to over $80,000 per year. This wide range offers opportunities for growth. The percent distribution of these salaries shows that many carpenters earn between $42,427 and $63,301 each year. This data highlights the potential for a rewarding career in carpentry.
What are the highest paying cities for a Carpenter?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,971
Seattle offers a high demand for skilled carpenters. With a vibrant construction scene, workers often find jobs with top firms like Seattle-based construction companies. Opportunities to work on unique projects, from residential homes to commercial spaces, are plentiful.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $71,322
Tampa’s warm climate makes it an ideal place for construction year-round. Carpenters in Tampa enjoy steady work, with major companies seeking skilled labor. The city’s growing population drives demand for new residential and commercial buildings.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $70,495
In Minneapolis, carpenters enjoy a mix of urban and outdoor projects. The city’s strong economy supports various construction projects. Workers often find employment with firms known for their quality standards, including local and national companies.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,535
San Diego’s sunny weather allows for construction to continue throughout the year. Carpenters here work on diverse projects, from coastal homes to commercial developments. The city’s vibrant real estate market offers many opportunities for skilled workers.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $66,548
Spokane provides a blend of urban and natural beauty, offering various projects for carpenters. The city’s growing population and urban renewal projects create steady work. Local companies often seek skilled carpenters for both residential and commercial projects.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $65,282
St. Louis has a strong construction industry with many opportunities for carpenters. The city’s historic architecture and modern developments offer diverse projects. Workers can find jobs with both local firms and large construction companies.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $63,170
Omaha’s steady construction growth provides ample opportunities for carpenters. The city’s economy supports various residential and commercial projects. Local companies often need skilled workers for both new builds and renovations.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $61,962
Milwaukee offers a variety of construction projects for carpenters. The city’s strong manufacturing sector supports many building projects. Skilled workers often find jobs with local firms and larger companies in the area.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,438
In Washington, DC, carpenters work on a range of projects, from historic buildings to modern developments. The city’s government and tourism sectors drive demand for skilled labor. Opportunities exist with both local and national firms.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $59,925
Philadelphia’s rich history and modern developments offer diverse projects for carpenters. The city’s strong economy supports a steady demand for skilled labor. Workers often find employment with both local and national construction companies.
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What are the best companies a Carpenter can work for?

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WORKS by Jesse DeBenedictis, LLC
Average Salary: $64,444
WORKS by Jesse DeBenedictis, LLC offers excellent opportunities for Carpenters. The company focuses on custom woodworking and furniture. Locations include major cities across the country.
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Peopleready
Average Salary: $60,488
Peopleready provides Carpenter jobs with competitive pay. They place skilled workers in various industries. Peopleready operates in multiple cities, offering a range of job opportunities.
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Blue Star Limited
Average Salary: $60,000
At Blue Star Limited, Carpenters work on a variety of projects. This company focuses on construction and renovation. They have locations in several states.
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Twin City Framers
Average Salary: $59,673
Twin City Framers offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on framing and remodeling. They have offices in key metropolitan areas, providing various job opportunities.
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Walters Buildings
Average Salary: $57,769
Walters Buildings provides a solid salary for Carpenters. They work on commercial and residential projects. Their presence is felt across major urban centers.
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Curtis Contracting, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,615
Curtis Contracting, Inc. offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on craftsmanship and quality. They operate in several states, providing diverse project opportunities.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $50,600
Aerotek places Carpenters in various industries. They offer good salaries and work opportunities across multiple cities.
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US LBM Holdings
Average Salary: $50,000
US LBM Holdings provides Carpenter jobs with a focus on building materials. They have a strong presence in many regions, offering various job opportunities.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $48,333
Express Employment Professionals offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on direct hiring. They have locations in several cities, providing numerous job opportunities.
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C&Z Construction
Average Salary: $46,000
C&Z Construction provides Carpenter jobs with a focus on residential projects. They operate in key cities, offering a range of job opportunities.
How to earn more as a Carpenter?
Becoming a skilled carpenter opens many doors for earning more. Focusing on specific areas can help boost earnings. A carpenter can increase income through dedication and skill development.
To earn more, a carpenter should consider these key factors:
- Specialize in a Niche: Working on specific projects, such as building custom furniture or focusing on home renovations, can attract more clients willing to pay a premium.
- Obtain Certifications: Gaining certifications in areas like energy-efficient construction or carpentry techniques can open higher-paying job opportunities.
- Develop a Strong Portfolio: Showcasing previous work with high-quality photos and descriptions can help win bigger contracts.
- Network with Other Professionals: Building relationships with architects, builders, and interior designers can lead to more job opportunities.
- Invest in Quality Tools: Using the best tools and equipment can improve efficiency and work quality, leading to higher pay.



