Carpenters Salary in Los Angeles, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
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In Los Angeles, CA, carpenters earn a median annual salary of $73,840, which is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $59,310. This indicates that carpenters in Los Angeles are compensated more generously compared to their counterparts across the United States. However, when comparing these earnings to the local area's median household income of $93,525, it becomes evident that a typical carpenter’s income falls short of the average household earnings within the city. This discrepancy suggests that while carpenters in Los Angeles earn above the national median for their profession, they still do not surpass the broader economic standing of households in this locale.
The salary range for carpenters reflects varying levels of experience and skill. Entry-level workers, represented by the 10th percentile earning $45,790 annually, can expect to start at a lower bracket compared to more experienced colleagues who may earn up to $117,940 (90th percentile). The disparity between these figures is driven primarily by factors such as years of experience, complexity and scale of projects handled, specialized skills acquired over time, and the ability to negotiate higher pay rates. Experienced carpenters often have a robust portfolio of completed projects, advanced technical knowledge, or certifications that allow them to command salaries at the upper end of the spectrum. These elements contribute significantly to the broader salary range observed within this occupation in Los Angeles.
Salary percentile breakdown
Los Angeles economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Carpenters make per hour in Los Angeles?
The median hourly wage for Carpenters in Los Angeles, CA is $35.50, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $56.46 or more per hour.
Is Los Angeles above or below average for Carpenters salaries?
The median Carpenters salary in Los Angeles, CA is 24.5% above the national median of $59,310. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Carpenters in Los Angeles?
Entry-level Carpenters (10th percentile) earn around $45,790 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $55,980.