How to Become a Carpenters in California
Carpenters in California earn a median salary of $74,820/year, which is 26% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a carpenters takes home approximately $3,415/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a carpenters can afford in California
Becoming a carpenters in California
Meet education requirements
Carpenters positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves apprenticeship in California. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for carpenterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 106,500 carpenters. The highest concentrations are in Santa Rosa-Petaluma and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Carpenters salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $81K | $39.04/hr | 2,220 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $81K | $38.92/hr | 14,360 |
| Vallejo | $81K | $38.73/hr | 840 |
| Napa | $79K | $37.95/hr | 570 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $78K | $37.54/hr | 4,800 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $77K | $37.07/hr | 9,670 |
| Salinas | $74K | $35.71/hr | 1,210 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $74K | $35.5/hr | 31,350 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $74K | $35.43/hr | 9,690 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $73K | $34.97/hr | 610 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $73K | $34.87/hr | 110 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $72K | $34.83/hr | 860 |
| Yuba City | $72K | $34.73/hr | 200 |
| El Centro | $72K | $34.52/hr | 140 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $70K | $33.59/hr | 2,050 |
Carpenters salary range in California
Carpenters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a carpenters make in California?▼
The median carpenters salary in California is $74,820 per year ($35.97/hr). This is 26% above the national median of $59,310. Salaries range from $47,170 to $119,190.
What are the requirements to become a carpenters in California?▼
Carpenters positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a carpenters afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $74,820, a carpenters in California would take home approximately $4,827/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for carpenters in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for carpenters in California are Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($81,210), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($80,950), Vallejo ($80,560). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for carpenters?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $74,820 salary, this means roughly $3,096/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.