Average Carpenter Salary in 2025

Carpentry remains a vital trade in the construction industry, offering stable employment, skill development opportunities, and competitive wages. In 2025, the average carpenter salary reflects both demand in the labor market and the increasing specialization within the trade. Whether you’re considering carpentry as a career or looking to advance in the field, understanding salary trends and influencing factors can help you plan effectively.

What Is the Average Carpenter Salary in 2025?

As of 2025, the average salary for a carpenter in the United States is approximately $58,000 to $62,000 per year, or about $28 to $30 per hour, depending on location, specialization, and experience level.

Salary Overview by Percentile:

Entry-Level (0–2 years): $36,000–$42,000 annually
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $48,000–$58,000 annually
Experienced (8–15 years): $62,000–$75,000 annually
Senior Lead Carpenter/Foreman: $78,000–$95,000+ annually

Factors That Influence Carpenter Salaries

A variety of factors can influence a carpenter’s salary in 2025:

1. Experience and Skill Level

As with most trades, experience plays a major role in determining pay.
Skilled carpenters with certifications or specialized knowledge (e.g., finish carpentry, framing, cabinetry) often earn higher wages.

2. Location

Wages vary widely by region due to cost of living and local demand.
- High-paying states include California, New York, Massachusetts, and Washington.
- Lower-paying regions may include parts of the Midwest and rural Southern states.

3. Union Membership

Union carpenters generally earn more due to negotiated wages and benefits.
Additional benefits include health insurance, pension contributions, and job security.

4. Certifications and Education

While not mandatory, carpenters with certifications like OSHA-30, NCCER, or Journeyman licenses tend to have higher earning potential.
Attending trade schools or completing apprenticeships can fast-track skill development and better pay.

5. Specialization

Finish carpenters, cabinetmakers, or those in commercial construction typically earn more than general laborers.
Carpenters who transition to supervisory roles, such as senior lead navigators or project foremen, often earn salaries upward of $85,000–$100,000+ annually.

Job Outlook for Carpenters in 2025

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 3–5% increase in demand for carpenters through 2030, which aligns with steady growth in housing and infrastructure projects.

Key Trends:

Green building techniques and sustainable construction are driving demand for new skills.
Retirement of baby boomers continues to create job openings.
Skilled labor shortages may increase wages and overtime opportunities in some markets.

Average Take-Home Pay for a $103K Salary

For carpenters or lead foremen earning $103,000 annually, after federal and state taxes (assuming single filing status and standard deductions), the estimated take-home pay would be around $70,000–$75,000 per year, or about $5,800–$6,200 per month. This can vary depending on:

State income tax
Benefits contributions
Deductions for union dues or retirement savings

Certifications That Can Increase Your Salary

OSHA Certification (10/30 Hour)
NCCER Certification
Carpentry Journeyman Certification
LEED Accreditation (for green building)
Project Management Training (for those looking to move into supervisory roles)

Benefits of a Career in Carpentry

Job Stability: High demand in both residential and commercial sectors
Physical Activity: Ideal for those who prefer hands-on work
Career Advancement: Clear pathways from apprentice to master carpenter, foreman, or contractor
Entrepreneurship: Many carpenters eventually run their own businesses

Final Thoughts

Carpentry remains a rewarding and financially viable career path in 2025, especially for those with experience, certifications, and specialization. As construction trends evolve and demand for skilled trades increases, carpenters can expect steady job opportunities and competitive salaries. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to move into a leadership role, investing in education and skills development can greatly impact your earning potential.