Carpenters Salary in San Francisco, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA
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In San Francisco, CA, carpenters earn a median annual salary of $80,950, which is significantly higher than the national median for this occupation at $59,310. This reflects the city's high cost of living and demand for skilled tradespeople in its robust construction sector. When compared to the local median household income of $133,780, carpenters' earnings are slightly below the average, indicating that while they earn a competitive wage relative to other regions, their income is still modest within the context of San Francisco's overall economic landscape.
For entry-level carpenters in San Francisco, annual earnings typically start around the 10th percentile at $51,310, while more experienced workers can expect salaries closer to or exceeding the 75th percentile mark of $102,630. These disparities are driven by factors such as experience, skill level, specialization within the trade (e.g., residential vs. commercial projects), and additional certifications. As carpenters gain expertise and possibly take on supervisory roles, their ability to command higher wages increases, reflecting both market demand for skilled labor and individual career advancement opportunities in the area's competitive construction industry.
Salary percentile breakdown
San Francisco economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Carpenters make per hour in San Francisco?
The median hourly wage for Carpenters in San Francisco, CA is $38.92, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $63.83 or more per hour.
Is San Francisco above or below average for Carpenters salaries?
The median Carpenters salary in San Francisco, CA is 36.5% 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 San Francisco?
Entry-level Carpenters (10th percentile) earn around $51,310 per year in San Francisco, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $61,850.