How Much Does a Carpenter Cost per Hour in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

It costs between $40 and $200 per hour to hire a carpenter, with an average carpenter cost per hour of $75 and $125. Factors like project size and complexity, materials, and the carpenter's expertise will affect the final price. Understanding these costs can help you budget appropriately, and hiring a professional carpenter ensures your project is completed to a high standard.

Carpentry Cost Factors

The cost to hire a carpenter is based on many factors, like the scope of work, materials, and the project’s complexity. This is a breakdown of the main cost drivers that will impact your final price.

Carpenter Cost by Project Type

A significant part of your carpentry cost depends on the type of project you’re hiring a carpenter to do. Here are some common carpentry projects and their average costs. 

Labor Rates

When budgeting for your carpentry project, plan to allocate 20% to 40% of the total cost for a carpenter's labor rates, or 10% to 20% if you're hiring a general contractor. Several factors influence labor costs, including the number of carpenters working on your project and the time it will take to complete the work.

Materials

Your carpenter can help you determine the materials you'll need for your project. The cost of materials will depend on your preferences and choices. For instance, installing mahogany flooring throughout your 3,000-square-foot home will be more expensive than opting for pine.

Project Size and Complexity

The size and complexity of your project will impact a carpenter's hourly rate and the overall cost. For example, framing a house requires more time, labor, and materials than building railings for your deck.

Changes

It's important to finalize your project plans before your carpenter begins work. Major changes, like resetting a wall or moving a kitchen island, will require additional time and materials, especially if the work is already underway. Be sure to discuss any significant changes with your carpenter as early as possible.

Carpenter Cost per Hour by Specialization

You can hire a carpenter who specializes in the type of project you’re doing, which ensures optimal results and expertise. Here are the various types of carpentry specializations and the cost per hour to hire these professionals. 

Master Carpenter 

A master carpenter charges between $75 and $200 per hour, with a minimum fee of between 90 minutes and two hours. Consider hiring this type of pro for larger or more expensive projects that may require more experience and training.

Finish Carpenter 

Finish carpenters specialize in detailed, decorative woodworking projects, and their hourly rates range from $80 to $200. If you're looking to add custom cabinets or intricate trim work to your home, a finish carpenter can provide you with an accurate estimate based on your project's specifics.

Trim Carpenter

Trim carpenters specialize in installing trim and molding, adding the finishing touches that enhance your home's aesthetic. They charge between $40 and $75 per hour. The cost of installing trim starts at $610 per project and can increase depending on the complexity of the work you need done.

Framing Carpenter

Framing carpenters focus on building the structural framework of buildings. They charge between $40 and $60 per hour for labor, which is just a portion of the overall framing project cost. On average, framing a house costs between $7 and $16 per square foot for labor and materials.

What to Look for in a Carpenter

When hiring a carpenter, there are several things you should consider and ask them to give you the confidence that you’re choosing the right professional for your job.

Qualifications and Training

When selecting a carpenter, carefully consider your project's specific needs. Some carpentry work, like framing a house, is functional and practical, while other projects, like crafting a custom-built fireplace mantel, require more decorative skills. Make sure the carpenter you choose has the experience and portfolio to match your project's requirements.

License

Although a carpentry license isn't required in every state, it's wise to hire a carpenter who holds this credential. A licensed carpenter is more likely to be up-to-date on industry standards and carry insurance. To verify your carpenter's license, check with your state's labor department.

Insurance

Make sure your carpenter carries both liability and workers' compensation insurance. Liability insurance protects your home against any work-related damage, while workers' compensation insurance shields you from financial responsibility if the carpenter gets injured on the job.

Availability

Ensure you and your carpenter agree on the estimated timeframe for your project. Carpentry work can be invasive, especially if you're living or working in your home during the project. Setting clear expectations helps bring your dream project to life smoothly.

Recommendations

Recommendations are invaluable, whether they come from neighbors or online listings of top carpenters in your area. Hiring the right pro is essential for your satisfaction. If you're looking to hire a deck carpenter or contractor, ask to see a portfolio of similar projects they've completed. This helps you set expectations and ensures your vision becomes a reality.

DIY vs. Hiring a Carpenter

Depending on your skill level and the tools you have, you might tackle several carpentry projects yourself. Sometimes, you can complete a project on a budget with just a little help. For instance, a local handyperson service can assist with smaller tasks, like building a bench or constructing a simple storage cabinet. Hiring a handyman costs an average of $390.

However, many jobs are best left to professional carpenters. A pro brings knowledge of local zoning laws, trade licensing, and safety procedures. For work that affects your home's structural integrity, it's crucial to hire an expert. For example, if you have sagging floors, walls, or ceilings, you should avoid attempting a DIY fix. The cost to repair carpentry framing starts at $500, and the investment is worth it.

If you're unsure about your ability to complete a project, don't hesitate to call recommended carpenters near you for help, and hire a professional to ensure your project is done right.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.