How much does a woodworker make?
a year · about $21 an hour
A typical woodworker in the United States makes $44,530 a year, about $21 an hour, about the same as a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
A woodworker may read a drawing, measure boards, and set up a saw or CNC machine to cut and shape parts. They check the fit, sand or finish the pieces, and clean or maintain equipment.
Did you know? Many U.S. woodworkers use computer-controlled CNC machines for precise cuts, while custom pieces may still need handwork.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $30,510 and $64,150How do you become one?
In the U.S., most woodworkers finish high school or an equivalent program, then learn on the job from experienced workers; math, computer, or vocational classes can help. Some employers or unions offer apprenticeships, and CNC certificates are optional rather than required.
Why does pay differ?
In the United States, experience and the ability to run CNC machines or do complex custom work can help woodworkers earn more. Pay also changes with the employer, location, and hours worked. A special license or certificate is not required, but optional certificates can show skills and may help workers advance.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in Virginia ($62,730), lowest in Tennessee ($34,790).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,510 | $44,530 | $64,150 | about 5,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $62,730 | about 40 |
| Pennsylvania | $61,880 | about 50 |
| New York | $58,300 | about 40 |
| Minnesota | $57,670 | — |
| New Jersey | $57,490 | — |
Official definition: All woodworkers not listed separately.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/ooh/production/woodworkers.htm
- www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/wage-differences.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/summary/51-7099.00
- woodworkcareer.org/wca-credentials-2-2/
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY