True Cost Guide Walls & Ceilings Hire a Carpenter

How Much are Carpenter Hourly Rates?

Typical Range:

$15 - $150

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated August 24, 2020

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Hourly Rates for Carpenters

It typically costs between $35 and $100 per hour to hire a carpenter, or between $250 and $850 per project. The more advanced the job, the more it costs. For example: homeowners can expect to pay as little as $100 for door repair, while framing a house costs about $3,500, including the cost of labor and materials.

Cost factors for carpentry include:

Local labor and materials cost.
The type and difficulty of the project.
Work-related travel.

You may find that your pro charges per job, rather than by the hour. Ultimately, you should talk to at least three pros near you an accurate quote on how much your project will cost.

Average Carpenter Prices

Average Cost	$35 per hour
High Cost	$150 per hour
Low Cost	$15 per hour

Average Carpenter Hourly Rates

Type	Average Cost Per Hour
Master carpenter	$125
Union carpenter	$25
Finish carpenter	$35
Trim carpenter	$35
Framing carpenter	$20
General carpenter	$25

Compare Rates From Top Carpenters Near You

Master Carpenter Hourly Rate

A master carpenter typically charges between $100 and $150 per hour, with a minimum fee of between 90 minutes and 2 hours. Consider hiring this type of pro for larger or more expensive projects that may require more experience and training.

Union Carpenter Hourly Rate

A union carpenter typically charges $25 per hour. While union members tend to make more than non-union workers annually, the cost a homeowner will pay depends more on the type of project and level of experience the pro has, rather than whether or not they are in a union.

Finish Carpenter Hourly Rate

Finish carpenters typically start at $35 per hour and go up from there. Finish carpenters near you can give an accurate estimate on price, depending on the specifics of your project.

Trim Carpenter Hourly Rate

Finish carpenters complete trim and molding projects, and usually charge a minimum of $35 per hour. The cost to install trim usually starts at about $625 and goes up from there, depending on the work you need done.

Framing Carpenter Hourly Rate

Framing carpenters charge about $20 per hour for labor. This is a small part of the cost of a framing project. Framing a house costs between $7 and $16 per square foot for labor and materials.

Other Carpenter Rates

A general carpenter typically charges between $20 and $30 per hour. Find a carpenter near you to complete a wide variety of jobs around the house.

Consult a Local Carpenter For Real Time Quotes

Carpenter Prices Guide

What you’ll pay for different projects can vary depending on a few factors, like local labor and material cost, as well as the difficulty of the job. Here’s a look at the average price for common jobs around the country.

Type of work	Average cost
Frame a house costs	$3,500
Cost to build a deck	$8,000
Hardwood floor installation prices	$4,600
Crown molding installation prices	$1,110
Cost for built-in bookshelf or cabinets	$2,550
Custom cabinet costs	$4,900

DIY vs. Hire a Carpenter

There are a handful of jobs that you can do yourself, depending on your skill level and the tools available to you. Experienced DIYers undertake everything from custom tables to backyard upgrades. Sometimes, you can get the job done on a budget with just a little bit of help. For example, a handyman service near you can assist with smaller projects, like building a bench or constructing a simple storage cabinet. Hiring a handyman costs about $390.

However, there are many jobs you shouldn’t attempt yourself. Depending on the project, a professional has knowledge about local zoning laws, trade licensing and safety procedures. For work essential to your home’s structural integrity, you should always hire an expert. For example: If you have sagging floors, walls or ceilings, you shouldn’t ever attempt a DIY fix. The cost to repair carpentry framing typically starts at about $500. The investment is worth the price.

If you have any doubt about whether or not you can get the job done right, don’t hesitate to call in recommended carpenters near you for help.

FAQs

How much do carpenters make?

Carpenters make an average yearly salary of $46,600. They can make as little as $29,000 or as much as $83,000 per year, depending on factors like location and experience.

What is a master carpenter?

A master carpenter has reached the highest level of skill within his or her profession. This title indicates in-depth experience, certifications and training across multiple disciplines. Most have a minimum of 10 years of work experience as a journeyman, in addition to four years as an apprentice.

What does a finish carpenter do?

A finish carpenter typically focuses on aesthetic wood projects in the home. This can include functional projects, like hardwood flooring. More often, it includes built-in bookshelves, custom closets, wall paneling, intricate crown molding or baseboards, and unique door and window flourishes.

Which type of carpenter do I need?

The type of pro you need depends on the project. Typically, you can hire a qualified general carpenter for most of the work you need done around the house. Talk to potential pros about their experience and pricing. Also discuss any specialties they may have.

For example, if you’re looking to find and hire the right deck carpenter or contractor for your project, ask to see a portfolio of similar jobs they’ve already completed. This can help with setting expectations and bringing your dream project to life.