Carpenters vs Drywall Installers
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Overview
Both carpenters and drywall installers offer solid blue-collar careers with nearly identical earning potential and job growth. Carpenters earn a median $59,310 versus $58,140 for drywall installers—just a 2% difference. Both trades project 5% growth over the next decade, matching national averages. The key distinction lies in scope: carpenters construct, install, and repair various structures using wood and other materials across diverse projects, while drywall installers specialize in hanging and finishing drywall panels on interior walls and ceilings. Training requirements are similar, with carpenters needing 3-4 years versus 2-3 years for drywall work.
Salary Breakdown
The $1,170 salary difference between these trades is negligible—less than $100 monthly. Entry-level workers in both fields start around $35,000-$40,000, with experienced professionals reaching $75,000-$85,000. Carpenters have slightly higher earning ceilings due to specialized skills like finish carpentry or cabinetmaking. Both trades offer strong overtime potential, especially during busy construction seasons. Drywall installers can boost income through piece-rate work, getting paid per sheet installed. Geographic location significantly impacts pay for both—metropolitan areas and regions with active construction markets pay 20-30% above national medians.
Work Environment
Both trades work primarily on construction sites with similar physical demands—lifting, bending, and standing for long periods. Carpenters split time between indoor and outdoor work, from framing houses to installing kitchen cabinets. Drywall installers work almost exclusively indoors on climate-controlled job sites. Both face dust exposure, though drywall work involves more consistent dust from sanding and cutting. Carpenters use more varied tools and face diverse safety risks, while drywall installers deal with repetitive motions and overhead work. Both typically work standard construction hours with occasional overtime during project deadlines.
Career Growth
Carpenters enjoy broader advancement opportunities due to skill diversity. They can specialize in finish carpentry, cabinetmaking, or restoration work, commanding premium rates. Many become general contractors or start custom carpentry businesses. The variety of skills makes transitioning to related trades easier. Drywall installers can advance to crew leaders, estimators, or start specialized finishing companies. Some expand into related areas like painting or texturing. Both trades offer solid business ownership potential, but carpenters have more service niches available. Union membership provides structured advancement paths and training opportunities in both fields, with carpenters having more specialized certifications available.
Who should choose Carpenters?
Choose carpentry if you enjoy variety and problem-solving. Carpenters work on diverse projects from rough framing to fine furniture, requiring creativity and adaptability. You'll use many different tools and techniques, making each day different. This trade suits people who want to see projects from start to finish and take pride in visible, lasting craftsmanship. If you're interested in eventually starting your own business or specializing in high-end custom work, carpentry offers more paths forward.
Typical path: UBC apprenticeship or non-union program; no license required in most states
Explore Carpenters →Who should choose Drywall Installers?
Choose drywall installation if you prefer focused, efficient work with clear productivity measures. This trade suits people who like perfecting a specific skill set and working systematically. You'll master techniques quickly and can earn piece-rate bonuses for speed and quality. Drywall work is ideal if you want steady indoor work with less tool investment and faster entry into the field. It's perfect for those who prefer working as part of a crew and don't mind repetitive but satisfying finish work.
Typical path: On-the-job training or apprenticeship; no license typically required
Explore Drywall Installers →The Bottom Line
Both trades offer nearly identical pay and solid job security. Choose carpentry for variety and broader skills, or drywall for specialization and faster entry. Your work personality matters more than the numbers—both will build you a respectable career.