Cabinet making can be a lucrative career for skilled woodworkers. Cabinet makers design, build, repair, and install cabinetry in homes, businesses, and other settings. But how much does the average cabinet maker make per hour? Here is an in-depth look at cabinet maker salaries and what impacts earnings.

Average Hourly Wage for Cabinet Makers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average hourly wage for cabinetmakers and bench carpenters is $19.19 as of May 2020. The average annual salary is around $39,940.

Salaries can vary based on factors like:

• Experience level
• Skills and abilities
• Type of employer
• Geographic location

Apprentice cabinet makers generally start around $12 to $15 per hour, while highly experienced cabinetry professionals can make $25 per hour or more. The top 10% of earners make $30.02 per hour or higher.

Key Factors That Impact Cabinet Maker Hourly Wages

Several key factors impact how much a cabinet maker can make per hour:

Experience Level

More experienced cabinet makers command higher earnings. Apprentices start lower on the pay scale. Journeyman cabinet makers with some years of experience under their belt earn median hourly wages. Master cabinet makers with advanced skills and decades of experience earn top hourly rates.

Specialized Skills and Abilities

Cabinet makers with specialized skills and abilities tend to earn more per hour. For example, having expertise in high-end custom cabinetry, CNC machinery operation, veneering, marquetry, sustainable materials, and other specialties can increase pay.

Type of Employer

Cabinet maker salaries vary based on where they work. Self-employed cabinet makers set their own rates. Cabinet makers employed by large cabinet shops or furniture companies earn median hourly wages. High-end boutique cabinetry shops pay top rates for extremely skilled artisans.

Geographic Location

Where cabinet makers work impacts their earnings. According to BLS data, Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington state, and Nevada are the top paying states for cabinet makers. Rates are lower in states like Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, and Louisiana. Urban areas also tend to pay more than rural regions.

Salary Ranges for Cabinet Makers

While the average cabinet maker earns around $19 per hour, salaries can range widely based on experience, skills, employer, and location.

Entry-Level and Apprentice Cabinet Makers

Apprentice cabinet makers who are just starting out generally make $12 – $15 per hour. These beginning workers are developing skills under the guidance of experienced cabinet makers. With 1-3 years experience, pay increases to $15 – $18 per hour.

Journeyman Cabinet Makers

Cabinet makers with a moderate level of experience are considered journeyman status. Journeyman generally have 3-5 years of training and on-the-job experience. They work independently with less supervision. Hourly wages for journeyman usually fall between $18 – $23 per hour.

Master Cabinet Makers

The most skilled and experienced cabinetry professionals are considered master cabinet makers. These experts have 5+ years experience in designing, building, and installing all types of cabinetry. Their specialized skills command wages of $23 – $35 per hour or more.

Self-Employed Cabinet Makers

Self-employed cabinet makers set their own rates based on their skills and reputation. Successful independent cabinet makers charge at least $25 per hour or more. Those with established businesses and a solid client base can earn $35 per hour and up.

Geographical Differences

Cabinet maker pay also varies based on geographic location and local economic conditions. For example:

• Hawaii – $24.31/hr average
• California – $23.55/hr
• Washington – $22.92/hr
• Alaska – $22.73/hr
• Nevada – $21.63/hr

On the lower end:

• Mississippi – $15.43/hr
• Alabama – $16.06/hr
• South Carolina – $16.25/hr
• Louisiana – $16.55/hr

As you can see, cabinet maker salaries can cover a wide range but often come in around $18 – $25 per hour for skilled tradespeople, based on experience, abilities, employer, and location. Those at the top of their trade can earn $35 an hour or more.

How Cabinet Makers Can Increase Their Hourly Earnings

For cabinet makers who want to increase their earning potential per hour, here are some tips:

• Consider specialized training and certifications in custom cabinetry, CNC machines, veneering, sustainable materials, design software, and other niche skills.
• Build an impressive portfolio highlighting your finest work and unique style.
• Seek opportunities with high-end boutique cabinet shops and custom home builders.
• If working independently, focus on marketing to upscale clients and delivering top-quality work.
• Relocate to areas with higher wages, such as West Coast cities or Hawaii.
• Join professional organizations like the American Woodworking Association to build connections.
• Continue learning new techniques and stay on top of the latest trends in cabinetry.

With the right combination of superior skills, smart positioning, and great client relationships, talented cabinet makers can earn $30, $40, or even $50 per hour or more at the top levels of the field.

Career Outlook and Job Growth Trends for Cabinet Makers

The job outlook for cabinet makers over the next decade is positive. The BLS projects employment for cabinet makers and bench carpenters will grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, keeping pace with average job growth. Demand for high-end custom cabinetry and kitchen remodeling continues to drive opportunities. The ongoing housing market recovery also bodes well for job growth. Cabinet makers with advanced skills in computer-aided design and manufacturing will have the best opportunities.

Overall, cabinet making provides stable career prospects and earning potential, especially for those committed to reaching the highest levels of artistry and expertise. With sound training and business savvy, passionate cabinetry professionals can build rewarding and financially lucrative careers.

Conclusion

On average, most cabinet makers earn between $15 – $25 per hour based on their skill level, employer, and location. Apprentices start around $12 – $15/hour, while the most skilled cabinet makers can make $30/hour or more. Key factors impacting wages include experience, specialized abilities, where they work, and local economic conditions. For the top earners, strategic positioning and cultivating an elite clientele is key. With dedication to mastering both the craft and business side of cabinet making, it’s possible to build a stable, prosperous career in this specialized trade.

How Much Do Master Cabinet Makers Make

Master cabinet makers represent the highest levels of skill, experience, and expertise in the cabinetry trade. But how lucrative can this elite status be in terms of actual earnings? Here’s an in-depth look at how much money master cabinet makers can make at the peak of their careers.

Average Salary Range for Master Cabinet Makers

Master cabinet makers typically earn between $50,000 – $80,000 per year. Top earners can make over $100,000 annually.

On an hourly basis, master cabinet makers charge at least $25 per hour, with many earning $30 to $40 per hour for their specialized skills and bespoke work. The most successful independent master cabinet makers bill clients around $50/hour or more.

Key Factors That Allow Top Earnings

Several factors allow master cabinet makers to command premium rates:

Specialized Skills and Expertise

Masters have skills that take years to develop like fine woodworking, finishing, carving, veneering, CNC programming, design, project management, and business operations.

Bespoke and Custom Work

Masters focus on specialized projects like custom cabinets, libraries, entertainment centers, and architectural elements for high-end homes. Their work is customized versus production cabinetry.

Reputation and Brand Positioning

Successful masters build a reputation for excellence and style through high-profile projects that showcase their abilities and build referrals.

Solid Business Operations

Skilled business practices around branding, marketing, client relationships, and managing a workshop allows masters to be highly profitable.

Geographic Location

Being located in an economically vibrant region with plenty of affluent clients provides a larger pool of lucrative job opportunities.

How Master Status Impacts Earning Potential

Here are some examples of the increased earning potential that comes with reaching master cabinet maker status:

• An experienced journeyman cabinet maker earning $22/hour is able to charge $35/hour or more as a master for their expertise and custom work.
• A self-employed cabinet maker earning $30,000 in a year as a one-person operation is able to boost annual profits to $70,000+ as a master by targeting high-end clients.
• A small 3-person cabinetry shop grossing $250,000 in revenue is able to increase to over $500,000 in sales as a “Master Craft Cabinetry” brand, allowing higher prices.
• A master cabinet maker charges a 50% premium for their labor compared to standard cabinetry shops, earning $1,500 for a job that typically pays $1,000.
• For truly bespoke commissioned pieces requiring months of work, masters can charge $5,000 – $15,000 more compared to non-master craftsmen.

In general, a cabinet maker reaching master status allows them to increase their rates and income by $10,000 to $30,000+ compared to their earnings at the journeyman or standard cabinet maker level. For the very top earners, yearly income exceeding $100,000 is attainable.

Job Outlook for Master Cabinet Makers

The job outlook for master cabinetry roles is strong, driven by:

• Continued demand for high-end custom cabinetry and kitchen/bath remodeling among affluent consumers.
• Limited number of true master tradespeople with the skills and experience to fulfill discerning client needs.
• Increasing recognition of artisanal craftsmanship and fine woodworking.

Overall, master cabinet makers capable of delivering bespoke, master-quality work and effectively running all aspects of an elite workshop can achieve earnings on par with other skilled tradespeople like plumbers and electricians, and build rewarding, financially stable long-term careers in cabinetmaking.

Do Cabinet Makers Get Paid Hourly or Salary

Cabinet makers typically earn income based on hourly wages or project/job quotes versus an annual salary. Here is an overview of the common pay structures in the cabinetry trade:

Hourly Wages

Most cabinet makers are paid on an hourly basis, especially when starting out as apprentices or working for a larger cabinet shop:

• Hourly wages provide reliable income based on the time spent working. Rates usually range from $15 – $30+ per hour based on experience.
• Cabinet makers paid hourly typically work full-time for an employer, whether a small cabinet shop or a larger cabinetry manufacturer.
• Hourly pay allows predictable earnings and steady work without the responsibilities of running a business.
• Drawbacks include capped earning ability and lack of creative control compared to working independently.

Per Project or Per Job

More experienced cabinet makers often charge clients on a per job basis:

• Project or job quotes allow cabinet makers to set rates based on the scope and complexity of the work. Quotes range from $500 – $50,000+.
• Quoting jobs is common practice for independent cabinet makers working on residential or commercial projects.
• The per-job approach rewards skill and experience. Income potential is uncapped for masters.
• Managing project pricing and securing new jobs on a regular basis is key for steady income.

Combination of Hourly and Per Job Payments

Many cabinet makers use a hybrid approach, especially when working for a cabinet shop that handles both in-house and client work:

• Cabinet makers may receive an hourly wage from their employer for in-shop work building standard cabinets.
• For custom client projects, they submit quotes and are paid per job either directly by the client or through their employer.
• This allows hourly stability plus upside earnings potential from lucrative project work.
• Drawbacks include reliance on the employer for benefits, selling projects, and project management.

Salary

While not as common, some cabinet makers may receive an annual salary. This is most often seen with:

• Salaried manager roles at large cabinet manufacturers where compensation is based on experience and job duties.
• Salaries for cabinet makers at larger corporations can range from $40,000 – $70,000 per year or more.
• Salaries allow reliable income but lack the financial upside and freedom of hourly or per job pay.

Overall, most cabinet makers earn income based on hourly wages or per project quotes rather than a fixed annual salary. But a combination of both hourly and project pay through an employer is also common in the cabinetry trade.

What is the Average Salary for Custom Cabinet Makers?

Custom cabinet makers build high-quality, specialized cabinetry tailored specifically to a client’s needs and preferences. Their work commands higher income compared to production cabinet makers. Here is an overview of average salaries for custom cabinetry professionals:

Custom Cabinet Maker Salaries

According to reports, the average annual salary for custom cabinet makers is between $50,000 – $70,000 per year. However, there is significant variation based on factors like:

• Experience level
• Reputation and expertise
• Type of employer
• Geographic location

Top earning custom cabinet makers can make $80,000, $90,000, or over $100,000 annually depending on these factors.

Hourly Rate Range

In terms of hourly earnings, custom cabinet makers typically charge between $25 – $40 per hour. Rates often depend on:

• Years of experience in high-end cabinet making
• Specialized skills like fine woodworking, finishing, and design
• Vendor relationships for premium materials
• Strong portfolio and reputation

Independent custom cabinet makers with an established clientele can charge $50, $75, or even $100+ per hour for highly specialized bespoke projects requiring master craftsmanship.

But those just starting out in custom work may only earn around $20 per hour initially.

Key Factors Impacting Income

Several variables impact a custom cabinet maker’s earning potential:

• Experience – Mastering skills and proving expertise over many years allows top rates. Custom work has little tolerance for errors.
• Employer – Working for an elite custom cabinetry firm offers more income potential versus standard shops. But independent work allows the highest potential earnings.
• Clientele – Targeting high-end residential and commercial projects generates more lucrative work. Affluent clients demand high quality and pay for skill.
• Materials – Establishing relationships with vendors for rare woods, hardware, and finishes provides a competitive advantage. Markups boost profit margins.
• Reputation – A strong portfolio and recognized brand/name based on referrals allows pricing power and steady pipeline of new projects.

Overall, custom cabinet makers can earn excellent incomes given the high degree of skill and client relationships required. But building a reputation as a top artisan in this competitive field takes substantial time and work.

What Percentage of Cabinets Are Custom vs Stock?

When undertaking a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, homeowners must decide whether to install custom or stock cabinetry. But what percentage of cabinetry sold is custom vs stock? Here is an overview of the market share breakdown:

Stock Cabinetry

• Approximately 70-80% of cabinet sales are stock or semi-custom lines – This encompasses ready-to-assemble (RTA) and assembled cabinets from big box stores, online retailers, and wholesale distributors.
• Stock cabinets appeal to homeowners due to lower upfront cost – Pre-configured sizing and finishes mean reduced price points.
• Quick availability and faster installation make stock cabinetry convenient, especially for flips, rentals, and budget remodels.
• Limitations of standard sizing and configurations lead some homeowners to upgrade to semi-custom for a more personalized fit.

Custom Cabinetry

• Roughly 20-30% of cabinet purchases are custom – This includes fully bespoke and customized semi-custom.
• Custom cabinetry allows completely personalized sizing, storage layouts, finishes and design details tailored to the space.
• Custom cabinets appeal to upscale homeowners doing major remodels and new construction. Their budgets accommodate higher prices.
• Longer lead times for custom cabinet fabrication and installation are acceptable to gain quality and exclusivity.
• Custom cabinetry retains value long-term and conveys prestige as true built-ins.

Semi-Custom Cabinetry

• Approximately 5-15% of sales come from semi-custom cabinetry – This meets in the middle between stock and fully custom.
• Semi-custom offers some personalized sizing, storage configuration, and material choices at a moderate cost increase over stock.
• Quicker turnaround than fully custom cabinets makes semi-custom appealing for light renovations.
• Limitations in design flexibility mean semi-custom maintains some constraints compared to full customization.

Overall, stock cabinetry accounts for the majority of the market due to affordability and accessibility. But custom and semi-custom cabinetry make up a sizable share as well, especially among high-end remodels where quality and customization take priority over cost.

What is the Most Popular Style of Cabinets?

When selecting new kitchen or bathroom cabinets, homeowners have seemingly endless options for door styles and finishes. But amid all the choices, what style of cabinetry is most popular and in demand? Here are some of the leading trends:

Shaker Style

The perennial favorite is Shaker style cabinetry, defined by:

• Simple, clean lines and flat recessed door panels
• Exposed hinges on doors and drawers
• Minimal ornamentation for understated elegance
• Shaker suits both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Maple and oak are common wood types.
• Versatility and minimalism keep Shaker cabinets in demand year after year.

White Shaker Cabinets

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