The handyman profession plays a crucial role in Glendale, Arizona’s bustling housing and commercial service market. From small home repairs to larger renovation tasks, handymen fill a growing need for skilled generalists. As the population in Glendale and the Greater Phoenix area continues to rise, so does demand for reliable, versatile tradespeople.
This detailed 2026 guide examines the handyman salary in Glendale, AZ, including average pay ranges, how experience impacts earnings, market trends, certifications or training that help increase income, benefits of the job, and comparisons with nearby cities—all organized for clarity and value.
Average Handyman Salary in Glendale, AZ
Handyman pay in Glendale varies based on experience, skill sets, and whether a worker is self‑employed or working for a company.
Estimated Salary Range
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (USD) | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $32,000 – $38,000 | ~$15 – $18/hour |
| Mid-Level (3–6 yrs) | $39,000 – $50,000 | ~$19 – $24/hour |
| Experienced (7+ yrs) | $51,000 – $65,000+ | ~$25 – $31/hour |
👉 Average handyman salary in Glendale, AZ (2026): $42,000 – $48,000/year
Handyman Salary by Experience
Experience strongly affects income in this field, especially since many handymen either run their own small businesses or work independently.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Focus on basic tasks such as painting, minor repairs, and installations
Often assisted or supervised
Wage Range: $15 – $18/hour
Annual: $32,000 – $38,000
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Independently handles broader project types
More client trust, repeat customers, and consistent bookings
Wage Range: $19 – $24/hour
Annual: $39,000 – $50,000
Experienced (7+ Years)
Offers specialized repairs (electrical basics, carpentry, plumbing tasks)
May hire helpers or subcontract work
Wage Range: $25 – $31+/hour
Annual: $51,000 – $65,000+
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
A variety of elements determine how much a handyman makes in Glendale:
1. Experience & Skill Set
Broad skills in carpentry, plumbing, electrical basics, and appliance repair increase job opportunities and pay.
2. Licensing & Certifications
Basic trade credentials (e.g., OSHA safety, specialty certifications) make a handyman more marketable, though no universal license exists in Arizona for general handymen under certain fees/conditions.
3. Employment Type
Company employee: steadier hours, set wages
Self‑employed/Contractor: potential for higher earnings per job but less predictability
4. Local Market Demand
Population growth and housing turnover in Glendale drive consistent demand for handyman services.
5. Seasonality & Weather
Mild winters and long construction seasons help sustain year‑round work.
Job Market Trends in Glendale, AZ
As of 2026, Glendale’s handyman sector remains stable and growing:
Strong demand from both homeowners and rental property owners
Aging homes requiring maintenance and upgrades
Continued construction of new residential builds and renovations
Increased reliance on handyman services for short‑term rental turnover
Growth in digital platforms (online booking, mobile services) expanding reach for independent handymen
Market trends favor flexibility: generalists who can handle a wide range of repair and setup jobs tend to get more consistent bookings and referrals.
Benefits of Being a Handyman in Glendale
Handyman work offers several advantages:
✅ Job Flexibility
Set your own hours (especially when self‑employed).
✅ Varied Daily Tasks
Work isn’t repetitive—each job may be different.
✅ Low Barrier to Entry
Often requires hands‑on skills more than formal degrees.
✅ High Demand
From homeowners, landlords, and property managers.
✅ Earning Potential
Experienced handymen with solid reputations can charge premium rates.
Certifications and Training That Impact Earnings
While formal licensing isn’t mandatory for general handyman work in Arizona (under certain project value thresholds), training and certifications still boost credibility and pay:
Valuable Credentials
OSHA Safety Courses (general workplace safety)
Certified Remodeler or Home Repair Specialist Courses
Trade‑specific certifications (e.g., basic electrical, plumbing assistance)
First Aid/CPR (useful for client confidence)
Having these credentials can help command higher hourly rates, more referrals, and long‑term clients.
How to Increase Your Handyman Salary
Here are actionable steps to boost income:
Expand your skill set with hands‑on trade training
Offer specialized services (tile work, drywall/finish, minor plumbing)
Invest in tools and equipment that increase service range
Build an online presence and collect customer reviews
Join local business networks or referral groups
Offer maintenance contracts to repeat clients
Stay current with local building codes
Self‑Employed vs. Company Employee: What You Can Earn
Many handymen in Glendale choose self‑employment. Here’s how earnings can differ:
| Employment Type | Average Annual Income | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Company Employee | $38,000 – $50,000 | Benefits vary, more predictable |
| Independent Contractor | $45,000 – $65,000+ | Higher rate potential, variable hours |
Self‑employment carries more risk but also more room for income growth, especially for those with established client bases.
Handyman Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
| City | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Glendale, AZ | $42,000 – $48,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $40,000 – $47,000 |
| Scottsdale, AZ | $43,000 – $50,000 |
| Tempe, AZ | $41,000 – $48,000 |
| Mesa, AZ | $39,000 – $46,000 |
Glendale’s handyman salaries are competitive with neighboring Arizona cities, offering strong potential for both company jobs and self‑employment.
Job Outlook for Handymen in Glendale
The handyman profession is expected to remain stable through 2030 and beyond because:
Home repair and maintenance demand stays constant
Aging housing stock requires ongoing upkeep
Growth of short‑term rentals (e.g., vacation homes, Airbnb)
Busy homeowners outsourcing maintenance tasks
Local construction and remodeling activity
Outlook: Consistently positive, with steady growth potential.
Wrap‑Up
The handyman salary in Glendale, AZ 2026 reflects a competitive and stable trade. Earnings vary by experience, skill level, certifications, and whether you’re self‑employed. With high demand, flexible work options, and opportunities to expand skills, being a handyman in Glendale offers both job security and income potential.