Carpenters

SOC code 47-2031 · O*NET-SOC 47-2031.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Skilled trades

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Carpentry is still learned largely through apprenticeship and on-the-job training rather than school. Pay climbs sharply with specialisation — finish work, formwork and supervision pay far more than general framing.

Carpenters pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$60,580

a year

Hourly

$29.12

per hour

10th$40,410Median$60,58090th$99,910

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$65,630

$31.55 per hour

Middle 50%

$48,510 – $76,830

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$40,410 – $99,910

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

670,090

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $40,410; $19.43/hr
25th percentile: $48,510; $23.32/hr
Median percentile: $60,580; $29.12/hr
75th percentile: $76,830; $36.94/hr
90th percentile: $99,910; $48.03/hr

Job outlook · federal projection 2024–34

+4%

Growing faster than average

959,000

jobs in 2024

1,002,100

projected for 2034

About 43,100 more jobs

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, 2024–34. Projections describe the broader occupation group and are estimates, not guarantees.

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.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Measure and mark cutting lines on materials, using a ruler, pencil, chalk, and marking gauge.
Follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment.
Shape or cut materials to specified measurements, using hand tools, machines, or power saws.
Select and order lumber or other required materials.
Install structures or fixtures, such as windows, frames, floorings, trim, or hardware, using carpenters' hand or power tools.
Verify trueness of structure, using plumb bob and level.
Arrange for subcontractors to deal with special areas, such as heating or electrical wiring work.
Build or repair cabinets, doors, frameworks, floors, or other wooden fixtures used in buildings, using woodworking machines, carpenter's hand tools, or power tools.

How to become a carpenter

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 52% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)52%
Post-Secondary Certificate21%
Less than a High School Diploma18%
Some College Courses8%

Common questions

How much does a carpenter earn?

The national median is $60,580 a year. The full range runs from $40,410 at the 10th percentile to $99,910 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a carpenter without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Is carpenter in demand?

Federal projections expect employment to grow by about 4% between 2024 and 2034 — growing faster than average. Openings also come from people retiring or changing jobs, which the growth figure does not count.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Active Listening3.4/5
Critical Thinking3.4/5
Monitoring3.4/5
Reading Comprehension3.1/5
Speaking3.1/5
Mathematics3.0/5
Active Learning3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Building and Construction4.7/5
Administration and Management3.9/5
Mathematics3.9/5
Design3.9/5
Engineering and Technology3.6/5
Public Safety and Security3.5/5
Mechanical3.3/5
Education and Training3.2/5

Transferable strengths: Coordination, Quality Control Analysis, Complex Problem Solving.