Trades & Labor West Virginia (WV) Rank #48 of 50

Carpenter Salary in West Virginia

The median carpenter salary in West Virginia is $44,195 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $51,390.

Median Salary
$44,195
vs National
$-7,195
State Rank
#48 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Carpenter Salary Overview in West Virginia (2026)

West Virginia ranks #48 out of 50 states for carpenter compensation. Carpenter salaries in West Virginia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,195 per year, carpenters in West Virginia earn $7,195 less than the national median of $51,390.

A key advantage of working in West Virginia is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $44,195 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,613 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in West Virginia is significant: carpenters at the 10th percentile earn $29,584, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $70,692 — a $41,108 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in West Virginia for this role is Morgantown, where the median reaches $47,279.

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 West Virginia by Experience

In West Virginia, an entry-level carpenter earns around $27,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,080 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$27,520
$-4,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$44,720
$-7,280 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$67,080
$-10,920 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in West Virginia

Percentile WV Salary
10th Percentile $29,584
25th Percentile $35,604
Median (50th) $44,195
75th Percentile $55,900
90th Percentile $70,692

Carpenter Salary by City in West Virginia

The largest employment areas for carpenters in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Carpenter in West Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

FramingBlueprint ReadingPower ToolsMeasurementBuilding CodeFinish Carpentry

Job Outlook in West Virginia

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Carpenter Salary in West Virginia

How much does a Carpenter make in West Virginia? ▼
The median carpenter salary in West Virginia is $44,195 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $51,390. Salaries range from $29,584 (10th percentile) to $70,692 (90th percentile).
How much does a Carpenter make per hour in West Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $44,195, a carpenter in West Virginia earns approximately $21 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is West Virginia a good state for carpenters? ▼
West Virginia ranks #48 out of 50 states for carpenter pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level carpenters earn $27,520, while senior professionals earn $67,080.
How does West Virginia compare to other states for carpenter salary? ▼
The highest paying state for carpenters is Hawaii at $91,474. West Virginia's median of $44,195 ranks #48 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Kansas ($44,709) and Kentucky ($44,709).
What is the entry-level carpenter salary in West Virginia? ▼
An entry-level carpenter in West Virginia earns approximately $27,520 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $44,720. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $67,080.
What city in West Virginia pays carpenters the most? ▼
Morgantown is the highest paying city in West Virginia for carpenters, with a median salary of $47,279. Other cities include Charleston and Huntington.