How much does a Carpenter make?
Carpenters play a vital role in the construction industry, and their salaries reflect the importance of their work. On average, a carpenter earns about $52,457 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of projects they work on.
Carpenters with more experience often earn higher salaries. Entry-level carpenters might start around $36,000, while those with several years of experience can earn upwards of $77,000. Factors like working in urban areas or on specialized projects can also boost earnings. The demand for skilled carpenters remains strong, offering good opportunities for those looking to advance in their careers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Carpenter?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,549
In San Diego, skilled tradespeople thrive. Carpenters here enjoy a strong job market with opportunities in construction and home renovation. Companies like Del Webb and Lennar Homes offer promising career paths.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,767
Seattle offers a vibrant environment for carpenters. The city's focus on sustainable building practices creates a demand for skilled workers. Companies like Miller Hull Partnership and Beck Group provide excellent opportunities.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $68,541
Chicago is a bustling hub for carpenters. The city's rich history of architecture and construction offers diverse projects. Firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Turner Construction Company are known employers.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $63,227
Minneapolis provides a steady demand for carpenters. The city's growing infrastructure projects create many job opportunities. Companies like Mortenson Construction and Hammes Company offer reliable careers.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $62,419
St. Louis offers a supportive environment for carpenters. The city's focus on urban renewal provides many projects. Companies like HNTB and Burns & McDonnell offer promising career paths.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $60,549
Los Angeles is a dynamic market for carpenters. The city's entertainment industry and residential construction drive demand. Firms like Clark Construction Group and AECOM offer excellent opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,511
Washington, DC, offers a unique opportunity for carpenters. The city's historic buildings and government projects create diverse work. Companies like Clark Nexsen and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company are prominent employers.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $60,411
Spokane provides a growing market for carpenters. The city's focus on residential and commercial projects offers many opportunities. Companies like The Miller Company and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company are key employers.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $59,893
Tampa offers a warm climate and a growing job market for carpenters. The city's focus on tourism and residential construction creates many projects. Companies like Balfour Beatty and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company provide promising careers.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $59,741
Manchester offers a stable environment for carpenters. The city's focus on residential and commercial projects provides steady work. Companies like C.D. Smith Contractors and The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company are notable employers.
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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: $62,644
WORKS by Jesse DeBenedictis, LLC offers Carpenter jobs with a strong focus on craftsmanship and quality. They operate in several locations, including New York and New Jersey. Their projects range from residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments.
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Solid LLC
Average Salary: $60,421
Solid LLC provides Carpenter jobs with a commitment to excellence. They work in various locations, such as California and Texas. Their projects include residential homes, commercial buildings, and custom furniture.
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Deleers Construction
Average Salary: $59,182
Deleers Construction offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on innovation and sustainability. They operate in states like Florida and Illinois. Their projects include residential homes, commercial buildings, and eco-friendly structures.
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Kinsley Construction
Average Salary: $57,731
Kinsley Construction provides Carpenter jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and quality. They work in locations such as Ohio and Michigan. Their projects range from residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments.
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Staffworks Group
Average Salary: $54,486
Staffworks Group offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on professional development and career growth. They operate in several locations, including Pennsylvania and Maryland. Their projects include residential homes, commercial buildings, and custom furniture.
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Peopleready
Average Salary: $54,159
Peopleready provides Carpenter jobs with a commitment to providing diverse opportunities. They work in various locations, such as Georgia and North Carolina. Their projects range from residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments.
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Great Lakes Skilled Trades
Average Salary: $53,200
Great Lakes Skilled Trades offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on skill development and career advancement. They operate in states like Wisconsin and Indiana. Their projects include residential homes, commercial buildings, and custom furniture.
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Curtis Contracting, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,125
Curtis Contracting, Inc. provides Carpenter jobs with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. They work in locations such as Colorado and Arizona. Their projects range from residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments.
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KSI
Average Salary: $51,168
KSI offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on innovation and sustainability. They operate in several locations, including Virginia and Tennessee. Their projects include residential homes, commercial buildings, and eco-friendly structures.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $50,089
Aerotek provides Carpenter jobs with a commitment to professional development and career growth. They work in various locations, such as Minnesota and Oregon. Their projects range from residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments.
How to earn more as a Carpenter?
Becoming a skilled carpenter opens many doors to earning more. With the right approach, carpenters can increase their income through various means. Focusing on specialization, gaining certifications, and expanding one's skillset are key strategies. These efforts not only enhance job performance but also make a carpenter more valuable in the job market.
Here are some factors that can help a carpenter earn more:
- Specialization: Carpenters who specialize in areas like cabinetry, framing, or finishing can command higher rates. Specialization allows a carpenter to offer unique services that are in demand.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications from recognized bodies can boost a carpenter's credibility and earning potential. Certifications in areas like safety, advanced woodworking techniques, or green building practices can set a carpenter apart.
- Skill Development: Continuous learning and skill development are crucial. Carpenters who stay updated with the latest tools and techniques can perform tasks more efficiently and take on more complex projects.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to more job opportunities. Attending trade shows, joining professional associations, and connecting with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying jobs.
- Starting a Business: Many carpenters find greater earning potential by starting their own businesses. Owning a business allows for more control over projects, pricing, and the ability to scale operations.



