Carpenter vs Welder: 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.
Welder
Join metal components using various welding processes for manufacturing and construction.
Carpenter earns more on average — the national median is $2,000/year (4%) higher than a Welder. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Carpenter vs Welder — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Carpenter | Welder | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $76,307 | $73,001 | Carpenter +$3,306 |
| New York, NY | $64,440 | $61,592 | Carpenter +$2,848 |
| Seattle, WA | $75,218 | $72,832 | Carpenter +$2,386 |
| Austin, TX | $59,061 | $54,744 | Carpenter +$4,317 |
| Chicago, IL | $56,032 | $55,107 | Carpenter +$925 |
| Boston, MA | $66,267 | $66,166 | Carpenter +$101 |
| London, UK | £39,442 | £39,329 | Carpenter +$113 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$70,914 | CA$64,838 | Carpenter +$6,076 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Carpenter or Welder earn more?+
A Carpenter earns more on average. The national median salary for a Carpenter is $52,000/year, compared to $50,000/year for a Welder — a difference of $2,000 (4%).
Which has better career growth — Carpenter or Welder?+
Carpenter roles are growing at 4% YoY while Welder demand is growing at 3% YoY. Carpenter has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Carpenter to Welder?+
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 Welder?+
Carpenter has a lower AI automation risk (12% vs 35%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.