Average Carpenter Salary in Missouri
Carpenters in Missouri earn an average of $53,735 per year across 2 metro areas. This is +7.7% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$53,735
per year
Hourly Rate
$25.84
per hour
vs National
-7.7%
$58,210 national
Salary Range
$34,396
to $77,660
About Carpenter Careers in Missouri
Carpenters construct, install, and repair building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. They work on a wide variety of projects, from building homes and commercial structures to installing cabinets and framing walls. Carpentry is one of the oldest and most versatile building trades, requiring both precision craftsmanship and practical problem-solving skills.
In Missouri, carpenters earn an average of $53,735 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $34,396 for entry-level roles to $77,660 for the most experienced professionals — +7.7% below the national average. Pay is influenced most by specialization (finish carpentry, framing, cabinetry), union membership and collective bargaining agreements, and the specific metro area within Missouri.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$53,735
Cost of Living Index
90
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$59,706
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Missouri's cost of living (below average), a Carpenter's salary of $53,735 has the purchasing power of $59,706 in an average-cost area.
Carpenter Salary by City in Missouri
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis, MO | $53,884 | $25.91/hr | $34,033 | $78,846 | 458 |
| Kansas City, MO | $53,585 | $25.76/hr | $34,759 | $76,473 | 389 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Missouri vs National Average
Carpenter Salary Comparison
Employment in Missouri
There are approximately 847 Carpenters employed across 2 metro areas in Missouri.
Key Industries: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture
State Income Tax: 0% - 4.95%
Carpenter Salary Range in Missouri
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$34,396
Starting salary for new Carpenters
Median (50th Percentile)
$53,735
Mid-career Carpenter salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$77,660
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Missouri
Carpenter Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Carpenter salaries in Missouri with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Carpenter salary in Missouri?
The average Carpenter salary in Missouri is $53,735 per year ($25.84/hour) based on 2026 data across 2 metro areas. This is 7.7% below the national average of $58,210.
What is the highest paying city for Carpenters in Missouri?
St. Louis, MO is the highest paying city for Carpenters in Missouri, with a median salary of $53,884 per year. The lowest paying metro area is Kansas City, MO at $53,585.
What is the salary range for Carpenters in Missouri?
Carpenter salaries in Missouri range from $34,396 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $77,660 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $53,735 per year.
About This Data
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. State-level averages are calculated from metro area data within Missouri. Figures represent 2026 estimates and may not reflect all employers or self-employed workers. Cost of living adjustments use regional indices to provide purchasing power context.