How much does a Carpenter make?
Carpenters play a key role in the construction industry. They work on building and maintaining structures. Their salaries can vary based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a Carpenter is $53,164. Those just starting might earn closer to $34,150 annually. As they gain experience, salaries can rise significantly.
To understand the growth potential, consider these salary brackets. The lowest-paid 10% of Carpenters make $34,150 or less. The highest-paid 10% earn $80,000 or more per year. Most Carpenters fall in the middle, earning between $42,486 and $67,495 annually. This shows that with more experience, a Carpenter can expect to see a rise in their income.
What are the highest paying cities for a Carpenter?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,376
Carpenters in San Diego enjoy a vibrant construction scene with a mix of residential and commercial projects. Companies like Swinerton Builders and J.E. Dunn Construction offer many opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,971
In Seattle, carpenters work on iconic projects with firms such as Miller Hull and Seattle Building Group. The city's growing infrastructure supports a steady demand for skilled tradespeople.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $71,179
Tampa offers a warm climate and a booming construction market. Carpenters can find work with local firms like J.F. Shea and American Bridge Company, focusing on both residential and large-scale projects.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $70,823
Minneapolis provides a range of opportunities for carpenters. Companies such as Hub International and Mortenson Construction offer diverse projects from office buildings to residential homes.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $64,007
St. Louis has a strong demand for carpenters. Local firms like HNTB and DLR Group offer various projects, from historic restorations to modern constructions.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $63,213
Omaha's growing economy creates many opportunities for carpenters. Firms such as Kiewit Corporation and HDR, Inc. offer a mix of projects, including commercial and residential work.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $62,901
Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a steady demand for skilled tradespeople. Local companies like C.E. Bach and Lake City Construction provide many job opportunities.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $61,635
Milwaukee has a rich history of craftsmanship. Carpenters can find work with companies like Theiss Enterprises and Gilbane Building Company on a variety of projects.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $60,486
Working as a carpenter in Washington, DC, offers access to prestigious projects. Firms like Clark Construction Group and Hensel Phelps provide opportunities to work on government and high-profile buildings.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $59,925
Philadelphia's historic charm and growing urban development create many opportunities for carpenters. Companies such as Bohler Brothers and Highrise Construction offer diverse projects from renovations to new builds.
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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 Carpenter jobs with a focus on residential and commercial projects. They work across New York, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. Their projects often involve intricate designs and detailed woodwork.
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Peopleready
Average Salary: $61,088
Peopleready provides Carpenter jobs in various industries, including construction and manufacturing. They operate nationwide, offering opportunities in many locations. Their Carpenters work on diverse projects, from residential homes to commercial buildings.
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Blue Star Limited
Average Salary: $60,000
Blue Star Limited is known for its quality construction services. They offer Carpenter jobs focusing on commercial and industrial projects. Their projects span across the Midwest, ensuring skilled craftsmanship in every build.
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Twin City Framers
Average Salary: $59,607
Twin City Framers specializes in framing for residential and commercial properties. They operate in the Twin Cities area, providing Carpenters with steady and varied work. Their projects include new builds and renovations.
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Kinsley Construction
Average Salary: $58,000
Kinsley Construction is a leading firm offering Carpenter jobs for both residential and commercial projects. They have offices in multiple states, providing opportunities for growth and diverse experiences.
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Walters Buildings
Average Salary: $55,000
Walters Buildings offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on high-quality construction. They operate across the West Coast, providing opportunities in urban and rural settings. Their projects often feature modern designs and sustainable materials.
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Curtis Contracting, Inc.
Average Salary: $52,615
Curtis Contracting, Inc. provides Carpenter jobs in both residential and commercial sectors. They work in the Southeast, focusing on new builds and renovations. Their Carpenters are known for their attention to detail and craftsmanship.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $50,600
Aerotek offers Carpenter jobs in various industries through their staffing services. They operate nationwide, providing flexible opportunities for Carpenters to work on diverse projects.
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US LBM Holdings
Average Salary: $50,000
US LBM Holdings offers Carpenter jobs with a focus on construction and home improvement. They have locations across the country, providing opportunities for growth and varied experiences in the construction industry.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $48,350
Express Employment Professionals provides Carpenter jobs through their staffing services. They operate in many locations, offering Carpenters opportunities to work on various projects in different industries.
How to earn more as a Carpenter?
Becoming a skilled carpenter opens the door to many opportunities for earning more in the industry. One of the most effective ways to increase earnings is by gaining specialized skills. Learning to work with different materials such as stone, tile, and concrete can make a carpenter more versatile and in demand. Mastering advanced carpentry techniques and staying updated with the latest tools and technology can also significantly boost earning potential. Additionally, obtaining certifications and licenses can make a carpenter more attractive to employers, leading to higher paying jobs.
Experience and reputation play crucial roles in earning more as a carpenter. Building a strong portfolio of completed projects can showcase skills and craftsmanship to potential clients and employers. Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers can enhance a carpenter’s reputation, opening the door to higher paying gigs. Networking within the industry and building relationships with other professionals can also lead to referrals and job opportunities that pay well. Attending workshops, seminars, and trade shows can also help a carpenter stay informed about industry trends and best practices, which can lead to increased earnings.
Gaining specialized skills, enhancing experience, and building a strong reputation are key factors for earning more as a carpenter. By focusing on these areas, a carpenter can increase their value in the industry and attract higher paying jobs.
- Gain specialized skills
- Enhance experience and reputation
- Obtain certifications and licenses
- Network within the industry
- Stay informed about industry trends



