The handyman profession continues to be a solid career choice in St. Paul, Minnesota, with steady demand for general repair, maintenance, and property improvement services. With construction and home improvement projects rising across the Twin Cities area, skilled handymen can earn strong wages and enjoy a flexible, rewarding work life.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the average handyman salary in St. Paul, MN for 2026, how pay varies by experience, factors that influence earnings, job market trends, benefits of the trade, and how salaries compare to nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in St. Paul, MN
As of late 2025–early 2026 data, handyman wages in St. Paul are above the national average, reflecting both urban demand and the skilled nature of the work.
Salary Overview
| Pay Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate (Average) | $25.76 / hr |
| Low Hourly | $15.44 / hr |
| High Hourly | $43.00 / hr |
| Overtime Pay Estimate | ~$6,250 annually |
👉 The average hourly pay for a handyman in St. Paul is about $25.76, with some experienced workers earning significantly more at the top end.
Because handyman roles are often hourly or contract‑based, annual income largely depends on hours worked, seasonal demand, and whether the worker is self‑employed or employed by a company.
Handyman Salary by Experience
Experience deeply impacts earnings in this field.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Basic home repairs and simple maintenance tasks
Learning tools and client interaction
Wage: Approx. $15–$22 / hr
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Greater independence on tasks
Can handle wide variety of small jobs
Wage: Approx. $22–$30 / hr
Experienced / Skilled Handyman (7+ Years)
Broad skill set (carpentry, painting, minor installs)
May lead projects or work as independent contractor
Wage: Approx. $30–$43+ / hr
Note: Some professional salary surveys also suggest that higher‑end or business‑owner handymen can earn annual incomes well into the $60,000s–$80,000s+ when operating full‑time, though earnings vary widely based on hours, reputation, and business expenses.
Key Factors Influencing Handyman Earnings
Several elements determine how much a handyman can make in St. Paul:
⦿ Skill Level and Experience
More experience generally means higher hourly rates and the ability to take on complex jobs.
⦿ Type of Employment
Self‑Employed / Independent: Sets own rate, can earn more but bears business costs.
Company Employee: Often steadier hours with potentially lower base rates.
⦿ Special Skills
Skills in carpentry, trim work, tile setting, cabinetry, or minor electrical/fixture installs can command higher pay.
⦿ Seasonality and Demand
Home improvement trends and busy home selling seasons can boost demand.
⦿ City Minimum Wage Standards
St. Paul’s minimum wage was set at around $16.37 for 2026, ensuring base wage floors even for helpers or entry levels.
Job Market Trends for Handymen in St. Paul
The handyman job market in St. Paul remains strong and steady, driven by:
Ongoing residential maintenance needs
Urban residential renovations
DIY backlog requiring professional help
Interest in affordable general home services
Unlike highly specialized trades (like licensed electricians or plumbers), handymen have broad flexibility and can often fill gaps for homeowners and property managers alike.
With more homeowners working remotely and investing in property upgrades, consistent demand for handyman skills remains a bright spot in the local labor market.
Benefits of Being a Handyman in St. Paul
Beyond pay, this career path offers several advantages:
✔ Flexibility
Many handymen set their own schedules or work part‑time alongside other income.
✔ Skill Variety
Daily tasks vary, keeping work engaging and diverse.
✔ Low Entry Barrier
No advanced degree is required—practical skills, tools, and experience are most valued.
✔ Business Opportunities
Skilled handymen can grow into independent contractors, build client bases, or even launch small service businesses.
✔ High Demand
With continual home repairs and updates needed, handymen maintain steady work opportunities.
Certifications and Education That Can Boost Pay
While formal certifications aren’t always required for basic handyman work, certain credentials can help raise rates and credibility:
Trade coursework in carpentry, construction technology, or general building trades
Safety certifications (OSHA, first aid)
Business/licensing courses for independent contractors
Clients often pay more for professionals who demonstrate proper training, insurance, and documented skills.
Comparing Handyman Salaries in Nearby Cities
Here’s how handyman wages in St. Paul stack up against nearby locations in 2026:
| City Area | Avg. Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| St. Paul, MN | ~$25.76 / hr |
| Minneapolis‑St. Paul Metro | ~$28.57 / hr |
| Minneapolis, MN | ~$27.49 / hr |
| Greater MN Average | ~$25.99 / hr |
| Saint Cloud, MN | ~$23.40 / hr |
Insight: The Twin Cities area generally pays higher than more rural parts of Minnesota, with the combined Minneapolis–St. Paul region offering slightly higher average rates.
Outlook: Is Handyman Work a Good Career in St. Paul?
Yes—handyman work remains a viable and rewarding career in St. Paul in 2026. Demand from homeowners, landlords, and small businesses keeps opportunities steady. While full‑time self‑employed handymen must manage business costs and marketing, the flexibility and potential for solid earnings make it an attractive choice for many skilled workers.
With proper skills, certifications, and a growth mindset, experienced handymen in St. Paul can enjoy steady income, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for business expansion.