Across U.S. metros, rebar workers typically earn $680 more a year than carpenters (1%). In the 24 metros where BLS publishes both, carpenters earn more in 13 and rebar workers in 11.
| Carpenter | Rebar Worker | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $56,155 | $56,835 |
| Lowest metro median | $29,750 | $27,120 |
| Highest metro median | $95,280 | $102,080 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +3.9% | -5.3% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 62,800 | 1,000 |
| Self-employed | 25% | 18% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Apprenticeship | Apprenticeship |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 165 | 34 |
| Metros with pay data | 390 | 24 |
On safety, carpenters report more injuries that cause missed work (165 vs. 34 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where carpenters out-earn rebar workers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where rebar workers out-earn carpenters the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Carpenter
Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways.
Rebar Worker
Position and secure steel bars or mesh in concrete forms in order to reinforce concrete. Use a variety of fasteners, rod-bending machines, blowtorches, and hand tools. Includes rod busters.
Compare one trade across two cities →