Carpenter vs Electrician: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a carpenter or a electrician? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🪓 Carpenter | ⚡ Electrician |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $25.50/hr | $29/hr |
| Median Annual | $53,000/yr | $60,300/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 2.0% | 11.0% |
| Total Jobs | 785,000 | 738,800 |
| Training Time | 4 years | 5 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($72,100/yr) | Hawaii ($81,400/yr) |
| Union Rate | $33/hr (UBC) | $36.50/hr (IBEW) |
Salary Comparison
Carpenters earn about $11,500/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both carpenters and electricians are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🪓 Choose Carpenter if...
Carpenters build, install, and repair structures made from wood and other materials. From framing houses to finishing trim work, carpentry covers a wide range of skills and pays solid wages in most markets.
Carpenter salary data →⚡ Choose Electrician if...
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. It's one of the highest-paying trades with strong demand across every state.
Electrician salary data →Training difference: Electricians require a longer apprenticeship (5 yrs vs 4 yrs)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Electricians earn a slightly higher national median of $60,300/yr compared to $53,000/yr for carpenters.
Electrician jobs are projected to grow at 11.0% over the next decade, compared to 2.0% for carpenters.
Electricians require a longer apprenticeship (5 yrs vs 4 yrs). Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.