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Average Carpenters Salary in Altoona, PA

Carpenters in Altoona, PA, can expect an average annual salary of $58,490. This figure is notably below the national average of $64,010, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different cost structure influence compensation for this trade in the region.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $58,490 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 34.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $71,810.
  • Outlook: With a total local workforce of 390 carpenters and a Location Quotient of 1.5, Altoona demonstrates a concentration of this profession that is 50% higher than the national average. This indicates a robust local demand and a significant presence of carpentry jobs within the area's employment landscape.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$58,490

The average Carpenters in Altoona, PA earns-8.6%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$28.1

Weekly

$1,125

Monthly

$4,874

Carpenters Salary Distribution in Altoona, PA

Carpenter salaries in Altoona, PA, naturally scale with experience. Entry-level positions typically fall within the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive project portfolios command salaries in the higher percentiles. This progression reflects the increasing value and responsibility associated with advanced carpentry expertise.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$39,540$19
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$43,868$21.1
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$54,380$26.1
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$73,113$35.2
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$71,810$34.5

Detailed Carpenters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$58,490

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$58,490

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average carpenter salary in Altoona, PA, stands at $58,490, aligning perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal salary holds its purchasing power directly against the national average, offering a stable financial standing for those considering a move to the area.

Job Market Context

390

Total Jobs

6.768

Per 1K Jobs

1.5

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Altoona, PA has 1.5x the national concentration of Carpenters jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

The Location Quotient of 1.5 for carpenters in Altoona, PA, signifies a market where this profession is significantly more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand for carpentry services and potentially fewer carpenters per capita than in other regions, indicating a favorable market for skilled tradespeople.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Carpenters

Comparing salaries near Altoona, PA

Hiring Carpenterss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Carpenters make in Altoona, PA?

The median annual salary for a Carpenters in Altoona, PA is $58,490. This typically ranges from $39,540 for entry-level positions to $71,810 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Altoona, PA is 8.6% lower than the national median of $64,010.

Is Altoona, PA a lucrative place for Carpenters?

Yes, with caveats.While the average salary of $58,490 is below the national average, the strong Location Quotient of 1.5 suggests high local demand. Coupled with a national average cost of living, the earning potential is stable relative to expenses.

Is Altoona, PA a good place to live for Carpenters?

The Cost of Living Index in Altoona, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Altoona, PA?

Some top paying nearby cities include Johnstown, PA ($54,270) and State College, PA.

How does Altoona's carpenter salary compare to the national average?

The average carpenter salary in Altoona, PA, is $58,490, which is approximately 8.6% lower than the national average of $64,010.

What does a Location Quotient of 1.5 mean for carpenters in Altoona?

A Location Quotient of 1.5 indicates that Altoona has 50% more carpenters relative to its workforce than the national average, suggesting a strong local presence and demand for the trade.

How does the cost of living in Altoona affect carpenter salaries?

With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Altoona's cost of living is exactly at the national average. This means the $58,490 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary would in a typical US city.

What is the job density for carpenters in Altoona?

There are approximately 6.77 carpentry jobs per 1,000 workers in Altoona, PA, reflecting the availability of employment opportunities within the local labor market.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 390 employees in the Altoona, PA area with a job density of 6.768 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.