Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Carpenters in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $62,600 | $47,600 | $81,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $77,800 | $59,100 | $101,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $89,500 | $68,000 | $116,400 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $107,400 | $81,600 | $139,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $121,700 | $92,400 | $158,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Carpenters — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Carpenter salary in the Washington metro is $89,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $68,000 to $116,400 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $147,700 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC 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.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for Carpenters — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Carpenter salary of $89,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Carpenters in Washington start around $62,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $107,400 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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