How much does a Carpenter make?
Carpenters play a vital role in the construction industry. They build and repair structures, ensuring safety and quality. The average yearly salary for a carpenter is around $52,705. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
Carpenters often start with a lower salary. They can earn more as they gain experience. Here are some common salary ranges for carpenters:
- Entry-level: $36,500
- Mid-level: $52,318
- Experienced: $76,045
- Top earners: $80,000+
What are the highest paying cities for a Carpenter?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $69,422
In Seattle, skilled tradespeople find ample opportunities in construction and renovation. Companies like Seattle Construction and Puget Sound Builders often seek experienced carpenters. The city's vibrant economy and focus on infrastructure projects make it a great place for carpenters to thrive.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $68,527
San Diego offers a sunny climate and a strong demand for carpenters. With companies like San Diego Builders and Coastal Construction, carpenters can work on a variety of projects, from residential homes to commercial buildings. The city's growth ensures steady work and career advancement.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $65,271
Minneapolis provides a mix of urban and suburban projects for carpenters. Companies such as Twin Cities Construction and Midwest Builders frequently hire skilled carpenters. The city's diverse construction landscape offers opportunities for both residential and commercial work.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $65,030
Tampa's warm climate and growing population create a steady need for carpenters. Firms like Tampa Bay Builders and Sunshine State Construction often look for experienced carpenters. The city's focus on tourism and residential development offers a variety of projects.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $63,211
St. Louis offers a blend of historic and modern construction projects. Companies such as St. Louis Builders and Gateway Construction regularly seek carpenters. The city's diverse job market provides opportunities for both residential and commercial work.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $60,411
Spokane's scenic beauty and growing economy create a demand for carpenters. Firms like Spokane Builders and Inland Northwest Construction often hire skilled carpenters. The city's focus on residential and commercial projects offers a variety of opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,391
Washington, DC offers a unique mix of government and private projects. Companies such as DC Builders and Capital Construction frequently seek carpenters. The city's focus on infrastructure and historic preservation provides a variety of job opportunities.
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Manchester, NH
Average Salary: $59,979
Manchester provides a mix of residential and commercial projects for carpenters. Companies like New Hampshire Builders and Granite State Construction often hire skilled carpenters. The city's growing economy ensures steady work and career growth.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $59,846
Los Angeles offers a dynamic construction market with many opportunities for carpenters. Firms such as LA Builders and Hollywood Construction often seek experienced carpenters. The city's diverse projects range from residential homes to commercial buildings.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $59,509
Milwaukee provides a strong demand for carpenters in both residential and commercial sectors. Companies like Milwaukee Builders and Wisconsin Construction frequently hire skilled carpenters. The city's focus on infrastructure and development offers a variety of job opportunities.
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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: $63,046
WORKS by Jesse DeBenedictis, LLC offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship. They operate in the Midwest, with locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. They value skilled tradespeople and offer competitive salaries.
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Kinsley Construction
Average Salary: $57,680
Kinsley Construction provides Carpenter jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork and safety. They work on various projects across the United States. Carpenters here enjoy a supportive environment and good benefits.
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Peopleready
Average Salary: $56,337
Peopleready offers Carpenter jobs with flexible work opportunities. They serve multiple locations nationwide. Carpenters can find temporary, part-time, and full-time positions here.
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Great Lakes Skilled Trades
Average Salary: $53,500
Great Lakes Skilled Trades provides Carpenter jobs with a focus on skill development. They operate in the Midwest, with locations in Michigan and Ohio. They offer training and career advancement opportunities.
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Curtis Contracting, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,190
Curtis Contracting, Inc. offers Carpenter jobs with a commitment to quality and safety. They work on projects in the Midwest, including Illinois and Indiana. Carpenters here benefit from a family-owned company culture.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $50,159
Aerotek provides Carpenter jobs with a variety of opportunities across the country. They focus on matching skilled tradespeople with the right jobs. Carpenters can find temporary and permanent positions here.
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US LBM Holdings
Average Salary: $50,000
US LBM Holdings offers Carpenter jobs with a wide range of projects. They operate in multiple states across the U.S. Carpenters here benefit from a large company with many resources and opportunities.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $47,211
Express Employment Professionals provides Carpenter jobs with a focus on local hiring. They serve various locations nationwide. Carpenters can find both temporary and direct-hire positions here.
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Skilled Trades Services
Average Salary: $46,000
Skilled Trades Services offers Carpenter jobs with a commitment to training and development. They operate in the Southeast, with locations in Georgia and South Carolina. Carpenters here benefit from a supportive work environment.
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MasTec Inc
Average Salary: $45,603
MasTec Inc provides Carpenter jobs with a focus on infrastructure projects. They operate across the United States. Carpenters here benefit from a company that values skilled tradespeople.
How to earn more as a Carpenter?
Becoming a skilled carpenter opens many doors to higher earnings. Focusing on certain areas can help boost income. Attention to detail, safety, and continuous learning are key. Networking and gaining experience in specialized areas can also lead to better-paying jobs.
Here are some ways to earn more as a carpenter:
- Specialize in a niche: Focus on areas like cabinetry, furniture making, or restoration. Specializing can command higher rates.
- Get certified: Certifications in areas like green building or electrical work can increase earning potential.
- Improve safety practices: A strong safety record can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay.
- Enhance skills: Take courses to learn new techniques and technologies. This keeps skills current and valuable.
- Network: Build relationships with other professionals. Referrals can lead to higher-paying jobs.



