How to Become a Carpenter in 2026
Median salary: $59,310 · +4.5% projected growth (2024–2034)
What does a Carpenter do?
Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways.
Carpenter Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Carpenters is $59,310. The bottom 10% earn around $38,760 while the top 10% earn over $98,370.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $38,760 |
| Early career (P25) | $47,550 |
| Median | $59,310 |
| Experienced (P75) | $75,620 |
| Top earners (P90) | $98,370 |
Highest-paying metros
Carpenter salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Hawaiitop | $85,970 |
| Illinois | $76,410 |
| California | $74,820 |
| Washington | $73,260 |
| Massachusetts | $71,110 |
| District of Columbia | $66,100 |
| Alaska | $65,150 |
| Minnesota | $64,650 |
| New York | $63,660 |
| Connecticut | $63,510 |
| Nevada | $62,240 |
| Vermont | $62,220 |
| New Jersey | $61,880 |
| Michigan | $61,410 |
| Oregon | $61,170 |
| Missouri | $61,150 |
| Delaware | $61,100 |
| Indiana | $60,510 |
| Rhode Island | $60,510 |
| Wisconsin | $60,390 |
| Maryland | $60,130 |
| New Hampshire | $59,890 |
| Colorado | $59,490 |
| Pennsylvania | $59,240 |
| Maine | $59,190 |
| North Dakota | $58,390 |
| Ohio | $58,310 |
| Montana | $58,110 |
| Wyoming | $55,870 |
| Arizona | $54,540 |
| Iowa | $54,080 |
| New Mexico | $52,010 |
| Utah | $51,720 |
| Kansas | $51,550 |
| Kentucky | $50,860 |
| Georgia | $50,530 |
| Virginia | $50,220 |
| Louisiana | $49,660 |
| Nebraska | $49,590 |
| Tennessee | $49,520 |
| South Carolina | $48,910 |
| Idaho | $48,530 |
| Texas | $48,150 |
| Florida | $48,080 |
| Alabama | $47,880 |
| Oklahoma | $47,740 |
| North Carolina | $47,630 |
| West Virginia | $47,320 |
| South Dakota | $46,500 |
| Arkansas | $46,320 |
| Mississippi | $46,160 |
How to earn more as a Carpenter
The salary range for Carpenters spans $59,610 — from $38,760 at entry level to $98,370 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Urban Honolulu, HI at $94,090 — $34,780 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Apprenticeship
Starting from high school
- Complete on-the-job training (apprenticeship)
- Earn industry-recognized certifications (NCCER, OSHA 10/30-Hour, equipment-specific operator certifications)
- Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
- Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
- Advance to journeyman level or specialized role
Look into union apprenticeship programs — they combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction and typically last 3–4 years. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) offers standardized craft training recognized nationwide. Trade schools offer shorter programs (6–12 months) that get you working faster, though without the union benefits. Community colleges also offer construction technology programs. OSHA 10-Hour General Industry or Construction certification is required by many employers and is available online for about $25.
Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.
Switching from another career
- Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
- Complete a short certification or orientation program (NCCER, OSHA 10/30-Hour, equipment-specific operator certifications)
- Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
- Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
- Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience
Career changers with any mechanical, driving, physical labor, or supervisory experience have a significant head start. Union apprenticeship programs accept career changers and provide paid training — typical starting wage is $15–$25/hour while you learn. Many programs offer accelerated tracks for applicants with relevant experience. If you're coming from a related trade, you may be able to enter at an advanced apprentice level. Contact your local building trades council or visit unionjobs.com to find openings.
Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.
Already working in another career?
See how your skills transfer to Carpenter — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.
See how your skills transfer — freeAI and automation outlook
The Carpenter role faces above-average AI exposure. Some tasks are increasingly automatable, but the role is evolving rather than disappearing.
See full AI risk breakdownRelated careers to consider
Based on skill overlap analysis — these occupations share core competencies with Carpenter.
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SOC: 47-2031.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034