Carpenter Salary in Pittsburgh, PA (2025)
Carpenters in the Pittsburgh metro area earn a median salary of $58,500 per year, or $28.12/hr. That is $1.34/hr above the Pennsylvania state average.
Pittsburgh vs. Pennsylvania Average
How does Pittsburgh compare to the overall Pennsylvania average for carpenter pay?
Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Pittsburgh pays $1.34/hr more than the national average (+5.0%)
Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Here’s how Pittsburgh compares to the national average for carpenters.
Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Pittsburgh pays $2.62/hr more than the national average (+10.3%)
Union vs. Non-Union Pay in Pittsburgh
Union carpenters in Pittsburgh earn around $34.31/hr, compared to $27.28/hr for non-union workers. That is a difference of $7.03/hr.
Union
$34.31/hr
Non-Union
$27.28/hr
Frequently Asked Questions
Carpenter salaries in Pennsylvania vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level carpenters typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level carpenters in Pennsylvania typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union carpenters earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified carpenter depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Carpenter work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The Pennsylvania job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified carpenters have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a carpenter's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.
Major metropolitan areas in Pennsylvania tend to pay carpenters 5-15% above the state average due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Check our city-level salary data for specific figures in your area.
Sources & Methodology
Salary data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program. Data reflects May 2024 estimates, the most recent available. Figures represent base pay before overtime, bonuses, or benefits.