Carpenters vs Electricians salary

Based on data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, on average, Carpenters make $55,190 annually, while Electricians make $63,310 per year. As a result, Electricians earn a wage that is higher than Carpenters.

However, wages can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and the specific setting in which the employee works. For example, Carpenters who work in Hawaii (with salary averaging $79,200) may earn more than those who work in South Dakota ($40,260). And Electricians in Illinois earn 86% more on average compared to those in Arkansas.

Carpenters vs Electricians overview

Carpenters and Electricians are two important roles in the Specialty Trade Contractors industry. There is a common interest in understanding the differences between these job titles, as well as the average salaries for each.

Carpenter job description

Carpenters 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 education and experience

Most Carpenters (52%) have a High School Diploma. But additionally, among employees with this job title, there are also some with a Post-Secondary Certificate (21%) and a Less than a High School Diploma (18%). In terms of experience, about a quarter of Carpenter occupations require a 1 to 2 years of previous experience working in the field. A smaller portion of roles (20%) require a previous experience of 2 to 4 years.

Carpenter average salary

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of Carpenters employed by the United States in 2021 was 668,060, and they earned an average annual income of $55,190. The bottom 10 percent had a salary of $31,880 or less, and the top 10 percent had a salary of $80,940 or more. The average salary marks an increase of 1.8% in comparison to the previous year.

Do Carpenters make good money?

Carpenters salaries are generally not as competitive as those of other professions, since their mean salary is 5% below the average pay in the United States ($58,260). Moreover, they make 16% less than the mean salary of the Building Construction industry ($65,910).

Carpenters salaries are generally not as competitive as those of other professions, since their mean salary is 5% below the average pay in the United States ($58,260).

Carpenters job growth

The number of Carpenters being employed has decreased over the past two years. In 2021, there have been 31,240 less job opportunities than the previous year across the nation, and that shows a decline of 4.5%. The average job growth rate for the past 3 years has been -2.4%.

Electrician job description

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.

Electrician education and experience

Most Electricians (62%) have a Post-Secondary Certificate. But this field also includes some employees who have a High School Diploma (31%). Regarding experience, 28% of Electrician occupations require a 6 months to 1 year of previous experience working in the field. A smaller portion of roles (23%) require a previous experience of 4 to 6 years.

Electrician average salary

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that in 2021, there were 650,580 Electricians working in the United States, and on average, they earned $63,310 per year. The bottom 10 percent earned $37,020 or less, and the top 10 percent earned $99,800 or more. Compared to the previous year, the mean salary has increased by 2.9%.

Do Electricians make good money?

Electricians typically make good salaries, since their mean salary is 9% above the average pay in the United States ($58,260). Additionally, they make 8% more than the mean salary of the Specialty Trade Contractors industry ($58,590).

Electricians typically make good salaries, since their mean salary is 9% above the average pay in the United States ($58,260).

FAQ

Do Carpenters or Electricians make more?

Electricians make 15% more than Carpenters. The average annual salary for Carpenters is $55,190, while Electricians earn $63,310 per year.

How long does it take to become a Carpenter vs Electrician?

Becoming a Carpenter typically only requires a High School Diploma. In contrast, becoming an Electrician typically requires a Post-Secondary Certificate. Obtaining a Post-Secondary Certificate usually takes between 1 year and 2 years of study.

Is it harder to become a Carpenter vs Electrician?

Becoming an Electrician is more difficult than becoming a Carpenter, since an additional 2 years of education are required.