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Construction & Trades · Pennsylvania

How to Become a Carpenters in Pennsylvania

Carpenters in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $59,240/year, which is 0% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a carpenters takes home approximately $2,573/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$59K
Median salary in Pennsylvania
-0%
vs. national average
3.1%
State income tax
29,900
Employed in Pennsylvania

What a carpenters can afford in Pennsylvania

Gross annual salary$59,240
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.1% state tax)$3,985/mo
Median 2BR rent (Pennsylvania)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,240/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,573/mo

Becoming a carpenters in Pennsylvania

1

Meet education requirements

Carpenters positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

This career typically involves apprenticeship in Pennsylvania. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification

Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for carpenterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania employs 29,900 carpenters. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Pittsburgh.

Carpenters salary by metro area in Pennsylvania

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington$62K$29.98/hr13,430
Pittsburgh$60K$28.68/hr5,730
York-Hanover$59K$28.41/hr1,110
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton$59K$28.36/hr1,270
State College$58K$28.05/hr350
Scranton--Wilkes-Barre$58K$28.02/hr1,100
Erie$57K$27.19/hr500
Harrisburg-Carlisle$55K$26.56/hr1,230
Williamsport$54K$26.18/hr210
Altoona$54K$26.15/hr390
Lebanon$53K$25.48/hr280
Lancaster$51K$24.65/hr2,790
Reading$50K$24.08/hr770
Gettysburg$49K$23.35/hr140
Johnstown$48K$23.15/hr220

Carpenters salary range in Pennsylvania

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$75K
90th percentile (senior)
$92K
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Carpenters careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a carpenters make in Pennsylvania?

The median carpenters salary in Pennsylvania is $59,240 per year ($28.48/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $59,310. Salaries range from $39,310 to $92,160.

What are the requirements to become a carpenters in Pennsylvania?

Carpenters positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a carpenters afford to live in Pennsylvania?

At the median salary of $59,240, a carpenters in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $3,985/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for carpenters in Pennsylvania?

The highest paying metro areas for carpenters in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($62,350), Pittsburgh ($59,650), York-Hanover ($59,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for carpenters?

Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $59,240 salary, this means roughly $1,819/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.