Woodworkers
Salary, job outlook, AI risk & career information
Median Salary
$43,720
~$21/hr · ~$3,643/mo
US Jobs
215K
Decline
AI & Automation Risk
3/10
Low Risk
AI & Automation Risk
Low Risk 3/10
The core of the job involves physical manipulation of materials, manual dexterity, and real-time sensory monitoring in a workshop environment, which are resistant to AI. While AI can optimize digital design (CAD) and CNC programming, the physical assembly, finishing, and machine maintenance require a human presence that limits overall exposure.
Salary by City — What You Actually Take Home
Real purchasing power = salary adjusted for cost of living. Higher = more money in your pocket.
| City | Local Salary | Cost of Living | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longview-Kelso, WABEST VALUE | $57,770 | Average (99.3) | $58,171 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA | $51,490 | Below avg (92.8) | $55,514 |
| Savannah, GA | $53,080 | Below avg (95.9) | $55,345 |
| Duluth, MN-WI | $46,420 | Below avg (87.2) | $53,246 |
| Terre Haute, IN | $46,350 | Below avg (88.3) | $52,518 |
| Lewiston, ID-WA | $46,000 | Below avg (87.9) | $52,339 |
| Eau Claire, WI | $47,180 | Below avg (91.5) | $51,547 |
| Missoula, MT | $47,940 | Below avg (93.9) | $51,048 |
| Cleveland, OH | $47,400 | Below avg (92.9) | $51,018 |
| Fargo, ND-MN | $45,450 | Below avg (89.1) | $50,990 |
| Baton Rouge, LA | $45,780 | Below avg (91.2) | $50,179 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI | $47,540 | Below avg (95.0) | $50,055 |
| Mansfield, OH | $43,350 | Below avg (86.6) | $50,031 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | $50,110 | Average (100.9) | $49,651 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA | $52,540 | Above avg (105.9) | $49,618 |
Cost of Living Index: 100 = US national average. Below 100 = cheaper. Above 100 = more expensive.
Education & Requirements
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
10-Year Growth
-2% (Decline)
Hourly Rate
~$21/hr
Monthly Income
~$3,643/mo
Related Careers
Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics OOH (2024)