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Carpenter

Carpenter programs in the United States

These are national ranges — not a local paycheck. Open a state for tuition and first-year wage that belong to a real market.

Updated Apr 2026

BLS Occupational Employment — Carpenters — $56,350

U.S. median annual wage (most recent OEWS) · Apr 2026

Compare by state

Typical paths nationwide

These are program types, not a specific local. Paid apprenticeships are listed first.

01

ABC carpenter apprenticeship

ApprenticeshipSeats: Open

Tuition / net cost

$0–$3,500

Employer-sponsored. Classroom fees vary by chapter.

First-year wage

$15–$20/hr

Paid from day one with a participating contractor.

Term

4 years

Steps to local carpenter journeyman rates

ABC chapters·Multiple states

Source: ABC chapter pages (composite) (2026-03)

02

UBC carpenter apprenticeship

ApprenticeshipSeats: Unknown

Tuition / net cost

$0

Paid OJT. Related instruction typically covered.

First-year wage

$16–$22/hr

Usually 40–50% of local journeyman carpenter scale.

Term

4 years

National carpenter median in the mid-$50ks to $60ks

United Brotherhood of Carpenters local JATCs·Nationwide

Source: UBC public apprenticeship notes; BLS OEWS carpenter (2026-04)

03

Public technical college carpentry / construction

Trade schoolSeats: Open

Tuition / net cost

$5,000–$15,000

In-state certificate / diploma range. Tools extra.

First-year wage

$0 during school

Unpaid classroom. Entry after completion often $16–$22/hr.

Term

9–18 months

National carpenter median in the mid-$50ks to $60ks

Community & technical colleges·Nationwide

Source: College Scorecard carpentry / construction programs (2026-02)

Other U.S. comparisons

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