Trades & Labor Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Carpenter Salary in Massachusetts

The median carpenter salary in Massachusetts is $69,377 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $51,390.

Median Salary
$69,377
vs National
+$17,987
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Carpenter Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for carpenter compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for carpenters seeking high pay. At $69,377 per year, carpenters in Massachusetts earn $17,987 more than the national median of $51,390.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $69,377 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $51,390.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: carpenters at the 10th percentile earn $46,440, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $110,970 — a $64,530 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $82,224.

Nationally, carpenter employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for carpenters across the country.

Carpenter Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level carpenter earns around $43,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,300 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,200
+$11,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$70,200
+$18,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$105,300
+$27,300 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $46,440
25th Percentile $55,890
Median (50th) $69,377
75th Percentile $87,750
90th Percentile $110,970

Carpenter Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for carpenters in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Carpenter in Massachusetts

Education

Most carpenter positions require a high school diploma. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

FramingBlueprint ReadingPower ToolsMeasurementBuilding CodeFinish Carpentry

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, carpenter employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Carpenter Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Carpenter make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median carpenter salary in Massachusetts is $69,377 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $51,390. Salaries range from $46,440 (10th percentile) to $110,970 (90th percentile).
How much does a Carpenter make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,377, a carpenter in Massachusetts earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for carpenters? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for carpenter pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level carpenters earn $43,200, while senior professionals earn $105,300.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for carpenter salary? ▼
The highest paying state for carpenters is Hawaii at $91,474. Massachusetts's median of $69,377 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($91,474) and California ($73,488).
What is the entry-level carpenter salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level carpenter in Massachusetts earns approximately $43,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $70,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $105,300.
What city in Massachusetts pays carpenters the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for carpenters, with a median salary of $82,224. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.