Why does carpentry pay so little?

Carpentry does not always pay so little, as average wages in the United States are $24 to $30 per hour with experienced carpenters earning $35 to $55 per hour in high-cost cities, but several factors make it seem low-paying especially at entry level and in residential work. One major factor is low barriers to entry and high supply, many people can start as laborers or helpers without formal apprenticeship, increasing competition and keeping starting wages at $18 to $22 per hour. Non-union residential framing and general contracting often pay less than union commercial work, and some contractors underbid jobs to win work, especially in markets with large numbers of workers including undocumented labor that drives down wages. Carpentry is also seasonal in many regions, with winter layoffs reducing annual income despite decent hourly rates. Compared to electrical and plumbing trades that require more extensive licensing, code exams, and carry higher liability for safety and insurance, carpentry is sometimes perceived as less technical, leading to lower prevailing wage rates on some projects, though finish carpentry and custom cabinetmaking are highly skilled. Self-employed carpenters face expenses for tools, trucks, insurance, and taxes that reduce net income even if they charge $50 per hour. Lack of union representation in many southern states also lowers bargaining power. However, carpenters who specialize in high-end finish, work union commercial jobs, or run successful remodeling businesses in affluent suburbs can earn six figures, so pay depends heavily on specialization, location, and business skills rather than trade being inherently low-paying.