Biotech, defense, military, perfect weather premium. Here's how Carpenters in San Diego get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the San Diego metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $58,300 | $44,300 | $75,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $72,500 | $55,100 | $94,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $83,400 | $63,400 | $108,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $100,000 | $76,000 | $130,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $113,400 | $86,200 | $147,400 |
Highest-paying metros for Carpenters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the San Diego metro economy.
The average Carpenter salary in the San Diego metro is $83,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $63,400 to $108,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $137,600 or more.
Yes — San Diego pays -1% relative to the California 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.
San Diego vs. national: +31%. That puts San Diego among the stronger US markets for Carpenters — though cost of living in San Diego is also typically elevated.
In San Diego, the median Carpenter salary of $83,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Carpenters in San Diego start around $58,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $100,000 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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