Carpenter Salary UK 2026: Rates, Day Pay and Take-Home Guide

Understanding Carpenter Salary UK in 2026

If you are searching for carpenter salary UK information, it is essential to distinguish between statutory minimum wage rates, advertised salaries, and actual take-home pay. This guide draws on the latest GOV.UK guidance, ONS Average Weekly Earnings, and reputable recruitment benchmarks to give you a clear picture of what carpenters earn across the country.

Statutory Minimum Wage Rates for 2026

From 1 April 2026, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over rises to £12.71 per hour. For 18–20 year olds, the National Minimum Wage is £10.85 per hour, and for under-18s it is £8.00 per hour. The apprentice rate is also £8.00 per hour, but note that apprentices aged 19 or over who have completed their first year are entitled to the age-based minimum wage. These rates are set by the government and apply to all employed workers, including carpenters.

Advertised Carpenter Salaries and Day Rates

Employed carpenter salaries vary by skill level and region. According to salarytax.uk, an NVQ Level 2 site carpenter (1st fix) earns between £33,000 and £43,000 regionally, rising to £42,000–£50,000 in London. At NVQ Level 3 (2nd fix or bench joiner), regional salaries are £43,000–£51,000, with London reaching £50,000–£58,000. Foremen and site supervisors can earn £55,000–£80,000 depending on location.

Self-employed carpenters typically charge day rates. Phoenix Gray Recruitment benchmarks day rates at £200–£340/day nationally, with London rates of £280–£340/day. Specialist heritage carpenters can command £350–£600/day, yielding annual net profits of £70,000–£120,000+.

Take-Home Pay Considerations

Gross salary is not the same as what you take home. For a PAYE carpenter earning £40,000 regionally, after income tax, National Insurance, and a 5% pension contribution, annual take-home pay is around £30,880. A London-based carpenter on £55,000 takes home approximately £40,862. Self-employed carpenters must deduct business costs, CIS tax (20%), and Class 4 National Insurance, so a profit of £48,000 yields about £38,788 net.

Regional Variations

Carpenter pay varies significantly across the UK. The table below summarises typical day rates and permanent salaries by region, based on Phoenix Gray Recruitment data:

Region	Day Rate (CIS)	Permanent Salary
London (Zone 1–2)	£280–£340	£50,000–£62,000
London (Outer/M25)	£250–£305	£45,000–£55,000
South East	£230–£280	£41,000–£50,000
Midlands	£210–£260	£38,000–£47,000
North West	£205–£255	£37,000–£46,000
Yorkshire	£200–£245	£36,000–£44,000

Specialisms and Career Progression

Carpentry is not a single trade. Specialisms command different rates:

• Site carpenter (1st fix): £180–£280/day regional, £250–£400/day London.
• 2nd fix / Bench joiner: £200–£350/day regional, £300–£450/day London.
• Cabinet maker: £220–£380/day regional, £300–£500/day London.
• Heritage / Restoration: £350–£500/day regional, £400–£600/day London.

Moving from NVQ Level 2 to Level 3 typically adds £10,000–£15,000 to annual salary. Further progression to foreman or site supervisor can push earnings above £70,000.

Key Takeaways

• The statutory minimum for carpenters aged 21+ is £12.71/hr from April 2026.
• Typical employed carpenter salaries range from £33,000 to £58,000 depending on level and region.
• Self-employed day rates vary from £180 to £600 per day, with heritage specialists at the top end.
• Take-home pay is significantly lower than gross due to tax, NI, and pension contributions.
• Always check your contract and current statutory rates. For more guidance, see our UK Minimum Wage page and pay guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage for a carpenter apprentice in 2026?

The statutory apprentice rate is £8.00 per hour. However, if you are aged 19 or over and have completed your first year, you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for your age: £10.85 for 18–20 year olds or £12.71 for those aged 21 and over. Some employers follow the CIJC Working Rule Agreement which sets higher rates for later years, but the statutory minimum always applies as a floor.

How much does a carpenter earn in London compared to the rest of the UK?

London carpenters typically earn a premium of £5,000–£10,000 more than regional counterparts. For example, an NVQ Level 2 site carpenter earns £42,000–£50,000 in London versus £33,000–£43,000 regionally. Day rates in London range from £250–£400 for site work, while regional rates are £180–£280. The premium reflects higher living costs and demand in the capital.

What is the take-home pay for a carpenter earning £55,000 per year?

For a PAYE employee earning £55,000 in London, after income tax, National Insurance, and a 5% workplace pension salary sacrifice, the annual take-home pay is approximately £40,862. This assumes standard tax codes and no student loan deductions. Self-employed carpenters with £55,000 profit would take home less after Class 4 NIC and income tax, around £38,000–£40,000 depending on expenses.

For more detailed pay data, visit our pay data page or explore topics on specific trades.