Finance, manufacturing, healthcare — Midwest's premier hub. Here's how Carpenters in Chicago get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Chicago metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $52,000 | $39,500 | $67,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $64,600 | $49,100 | $84,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $74,300 | $56,500 | $96,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $89,100 | $67,800 | $115,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $101,000 | $76,800 | $131,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Carpenters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Chicago metro economy.
The average Carpenter salary in the Chicago metro is $74,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $56,500 to $96,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $122,600 or more.
Yes — Chicago pays -7% relative to the Illinois state median for Carpenters. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Chicago vs. national: +16%. That puts Chicago among the stronger US markets for Carpenters — though cost of living in Chicago is also typically elevated.
In Chicago, the median Carpenter salary of $74,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Carpenters in Chicago start around $52,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $89,100 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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