Handymen—skilled general maintenance and repair professionals—play a vital role in keeping homes and businesses functioning smoothly. In Winston‑Salem, North Carolina, demand for handyman services remains stable thanks to continuous property upkeep needs and residential growth.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the 2026 handyman salary in Winston‑Salem, NC, including average earnings, factors that impact pay, experience‑based salary ranges, job market trends, benefits of the profession, and comparisons with nearby cities to provide clear, valuable insights.
Average Handyman Salary in Winston‑Salem, NC
Winston‑Salem’s handyman pay typically hovers around the state average, with variations based on employer, experience, and employment type.
Local Salary Snapshot
| Pay Metric | Typical Winston‑Salem Range |
|---|---|
| Hourly Wage | ~$23.37 average (some roles) |
| Higher Local Estimate | ~$25.80 average at some companies |
| Estimated Annual Equivalent | ~$45,000–$55,000+ (approx based on typical hourly conversion) |
According to recent local salary data, handyman workers in Winston‑Salem earn around $23.37 per hour on average, with the possibility of higher rates depending on the company or contract work.
At specific employers, such as FixTman LLC in Winston‑Salem, wages can average ~$25.80 per hour, indicating local market variability.
Handyman Salary by Experience
Experience and skill level directly influence handyman pay.
Entry‑Level (0–2 Years)
Performs basic general maintenance tasks (painting, simple repairs)
Works under supervision or for smaller jobs
Typical pay range: $20–$24/hour (approx based on local averages)
Mid‑Level (3–5 Years)
Capable of independent job completion
Handles broader tasks like light carpentry, fixture installation, or minor plumbing
Typical pay range: $24–$29/hour (reflects local and state tendencies)
Experienced / Skilled Handyman (6+ Years)
Offers advanced skills, specialized troubleshooting, and higher efficiency
Can command premium rates, especially for contract and freelance work
Pay range for highly experienced workers may exceed $30/hour, particularly on independent contracts posted locally (e.g., $75–$200/hr contract listings on some job boards).
Factors That Affect Handyman Earnings
Several key elements influence how much a handyman can earn in Winston‑Salem:
1. Experience & Skill Set
More experienced handymen with diverse skills can command higher wages.
2. Type of Employment
Salaried or hourly employment with companies often pays differently than contract or 1099 roles. Some contracts allow the worker to set rates.
3. Scope of Work
Complex or specialized tasks (e.g., trim work, cabinetry, smart home installs) typically lead to higher pay.
4. Certifications or Specialized Training
Certifications in carpentry, electrical basics, HVAC basics, or plumbing can justify premium pricing.
5. Market Demand & Seasonality
Demand may increase in busy home upkeep seasons, influencing hourly rates and job availability.
Job Market Trends in Winston‑Salem
The handyman job market in Winston‑Salem is influenced by several regional trends:
Stable Demand for Home Services: Regular repairs and property maintenance ensure steady opportunities, especially with aging housing stock and rental properties.
Growth in Contract Work: Many clients hire handymen on a per‑job or contract basis, sometimes allowing higher earnings for skilled professionals.
Licensed Trades Complement Handymen: While full electrical or plumbing work often requires licensed professionals, basic maintenance and minor repairs remain within a handyman’s business scope.
Benefits of Being a Handyman in Winston‑Salem
Working as a handyman can provide flexibility and opportunity:
Flexible Scheduling: Many handymen set their own hours, especially if self‑employed or contract‑based.
Variety of Work: The role offers diverse tasks, keeping day‑to‑day work interesting.
Opportunity for Growth: With experience, handymen can expand into specialty trades, contract work, or run their own business.
Earning Potential: Skilled workers with strong reputations often command higher hourly rates.
Typical Tasks a Handyman Performs
Handymen are often called on for general home and property maintenance tasks such as:
Painting and drywall repair
Installing fixtures and hardware
Minor carpentry and trim work
Basic home repairs (doors, windows, cabinets)
Simple appliance installation
Minor exterior maintenance
These varied tasks support steady demand for handyman services within residential and commercial properties.
Education, Training, and Certifications
While formal education isn’t always required, certain certifications and training can boost earning power:
Trade School or Technical Training: Provides foundational skills in carpentry, basic electrical, and plumbing.
Specialized Certifications: Certifications in areas like carpentry or residential maintenance signal professionalism and competence.
Safety Certifications: OSHA or safety courses improve credibility and qualify individuals for more complex jobs.
Comparing Handyman Pay: Winston‑Salem vs Nearby Cities
| Location | Typical Handyman Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Winston‑Salem, NC | ~$23–$26 average (local data) |
| Durham, NC | ~$29.10/hr local reported nearby |
| Raleigh, NC | ~$28.10/hr nearby |
| Greensboro, NC | ~$27.40/hr nearby |
| Charlotte, NC | ~$26.21/hr nearby |
Winston‑Salem’s pay averages slightly below some larger nearby markets but remains competitive with regional averages in North Carolina.
Job Outlook for Handymen in Winston‑Salem
Looking toward 2026 and beyond, the outlook for handymen in Winston‑Salem remains stable:
Consistent Demand: Routine maintenance and property upkeep drive ongoing need.
Growth in Self‑Employment: Many handymen operate independently or as small business owners, expanding earning potential.
Complementary Trade Opportunities: Handymen often branch into specialized trades that command higher pay.
Final Thoughts
The handyman salary in Winston‑Salem, NC in 2026 reflects a profession with consistent demand and flexible earning potential. With average pay around $23–$26 per hour and opportunities for higher earnings through experience and specialization, handyman work offers a viable and satisfying career path—especially for those who enjoy hands‑on work, flexibility, and diverse daily tasks.