Carpenter vs Plumber: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Carpenter
Construct, install, and repair wooden structures and fixtures.
Plumber
Install and repair pipes, fixtures, and plumbing systems in buildings.
Plumber earns more on average — the national median is $10,000/year (19%) higher than a Carpenter. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Carpenter vs Plumber — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Carpenter | Plumber | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $76,307 | $90,412 | Carpenter $14,105 |
| New York, NY | $64,440 | $74,492 | Carpenter $10,052 |
| Seattle, WA | $75,218 | $86,433 | Carpenter $11,215 |
| Austin, TX | $59,061 | $68,479 | Carpenter $9,418 |
| Chicago, IL | $56,032 | $65,596 | Carpenter $9,564 |
| Boston, MA | $66,267 | $83,325 | Carpenter $17,058 |
| London, UK | £39,442 | £47,528 | Carpenter $8,086 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$70,914 | CA$81,287 | Carpenter $10,373 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Carpenter or Plumber earn more?+
A Plumber earns more on average. The national median salary for a Carpenter is $52,000/year, compared to $62,000/year for a Plumber — a difference of $10,000 (19%).
Which has better career growth — Carpenter or Plumber?+
Carpenter roles are growing at 4% YoY while Plumber demand is growing at 5% YoY. Plumber has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Carpenter to Plumber?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Carpenter or Plumber?+
Plumber has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 12%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.