Carpenters in Billings, MT: A Complete Career Guide

Welcome to Billings, the largest city in Montana and the commercial heart of the state. As a carpenter, you’re likely looking for steady work, a reasonable cost of living, and a community that appreciates skilled trades. Billings offers a compelling mix of industrial and residential construction, backed by a booming energy sector and a growing population. This guide breaks down the real numbers, the local employers, and the day-to-day realities of living and working here.

Let’s get straight to the numbers that matter.

The Salary Picture: Where Billings Stands

Salaries for carpenters in Billings are competitive, especially when you adjust for the city’s low cost of living. The median salary for carpenters in the Billings metro area is $55,144/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $26.51/hour. It’s important to note that this is slightly below the national average for carpenters, which is $56,920/year. However, this gap is more than compensated for by Montana’s lack of a state sales tax and the significantly lower living costs compared to national averages.

Experience is the biggest driver of pay in the skilled trades. Here’s how salaries typically break down in the Billings market:

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Billings)
Entry-Level / Apprentice	0-2 years	$38,000 - $45,000
Mid-Level / Journeyman	3-7 years	$50,000 - $62,000
Senior / Lead Carpenter	8-15 years	$60,000 - $75,000+
Expert / Superintendent	15+ years	$70,000 - $90,000+

Insider Tip: Your specific pay will hinge on your specialization. A finish carpenter with high-end custom home experience can command a premium, especially working for firms catering to the luxury homes in neighborhoods like the Rims. Conversely, rough framers on large commercial projects may stick closer to the median.

How Billings Compares to Other Montana Cities:

• Bozeman: Higher cost of living (average 1BR rent ~$1,300) and higher salaries ($58,000-$65,000 median), but extremely competitive market with many newcomers.
• Missoula: Similar cost of living to Bozeman, with salaries slightly above Billings ($56,000-$60,000 median). Strong residential and light commercial markets.
• Great Falls: Slightly lower cost of living than Billings, but also lower median salary ($52,000-$56,000). More industrial and military base-related work.

Billings strikes a balance: it’s the state’s biggest job market for carpentry (with 241 jobs listed in the metro) and offers a stable, affordable lifestyle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your disposable income is crucial. With a median salary of $55,144, your take-home pay after federal taxes (assuming single filer, standard deduction) and Montana’s progressive state income tax (1-6.75%) will be approximately $42,500 - $44,000 annually, or $3,540 - $3,665 per month.

Billings has a very favorable cost of living index of 89.6 (US avg = 100). The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $874/month. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a carpenter earning the median salary:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apt)	$874	Varies by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$200	Varies by season (heating costs in winter)
Groceries	$350	A family of two would be higher
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assumes a used truck/van payment + insurance
Fuel	$150	Commute varies by neighborhood
Health Insurance (Individual)	$300	Premium varies by plan
Savings / Retirement	$300	10% of take-home is a good start
Miscellaneous (Clothing, Tools, Fun)	$300	Essential for a tradesperson
Total	$2,874	Leaves ~$666 - $791 cushion

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Billings is approximately $285,000. With a 10% down payment ($28,500), a $55,144 salary provides a comfortable path to homeownership. A 30-year mortgage on a $256,500 loan at 6.5% would be roughly $1,620/month (including taxes & insurance). This is within reach for a journeyman carpenter, especially with a spouse or partner contributing to the household income. Many local tradespeople live in single-family homes, often in the older, established neighborhoods on the West End or in the Heights.

Where the Jobs Are: Billings's Major Employers

The construction market in Billings is robust, driven by residential development, commercial renovation, and the supporting industries of healthcare and energy. The 10-year job growth for carpenters in the region is projected at 5%, indicating steady, stable demand.

Here are the major local employers and what they look for:

1. L&L Construction: A premier local builder specializing in high-end custom homes and commercial tenant improvements. They prioritize finish carpenters with precision skills and experience with complex joinery. They often hire through direct applications and word-of-mouth.
2. Billings Clinic / St. Vincent Healthcare: The two major healthcare systems are in constant need of carpenters for facility maintenance, renovations, and new construction. These are stable, long-term positions with excellent benefits. Hiring is done through their in-house facilities departments and through contractors like Cannon Builders.
3. Western Sugar Cooperative: Located in the Billings area, this processing plant requires industrial carpenters for structural repairs, maintenance, and project work. Knowledge of industrial standards and OSHA safety is a must.
4. Bennett Homes: A large, volume-based home builder with a significant footprint in the Billings area (and Montana). They are a major employer for framers and rough carpenters, often hiring apprentices and journeyman through their hiring portal. They build in neighborhoods like the Heights and West End.
5. Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. (MDU): As an energy utility, MDU has facilities and infrastructure that require regular carpentry work. This can include building maintenance, substation work, and project-based construction. They often post jobs on their corporate site and local job boards.
6. Local Specialty Contractors: Firms like Billings Roofing & Construction and Yellowstone Carpentry handle residential remodels and repairs. These smaller shops are where many carpenters build their portfolio of experience with diverse projects. Finding them often requires direct contact and checking local ads.
7. Federal & State Projects: The VA Hospital and Fort Harrison (in nearby Helena, but with Billings contractors) provide periodic project-based work. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and US Forest Service also hire for trail and facility maintenance carpentry.

Hiring Trends: The market is tight for skilled journeyman, especially those with a clean driving record and OSHA 10/30 certification. The rise in remote work has increased demand for home office renovations and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Insider Tip: Networking at the local Montana Home Builders Association (MHBA) chapter meetings or the Billings Builders Association events is invaluable. Many jobs here are filled before they ever hit a job board.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana does not have a state-level license for general carpenters. However, specific trade licenses are required for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work. If you plan to operate your own business as a contractor, you will need a Montana Contractor's License.

• Contractor License: Administered by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI). Requires passing a business and law exam, proof of insurance, and a bond. The fee for a 2-year license is $335. You must have a minimum of 4 years of experience as a journeyman carpenter or foreman.
• Recommended Certifications: While not required, these significantly boost employability:
  • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Card: Virtually mandatory for commercial work.
  • First Aid/CPR: Often required by larger firms.
  • CPR/CPR/AED: For public-facing roles in facilities.
• Timeline: If you’re an experienced carpenter from another state, you can start applying for jobs immediately. For those starting from scratch, the traditional 4-year apprenticeship through the local Montana Carpenters Training Center is the best path. This combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Insider Tip: Even if you don’t plan to start your own business, getting your Montana Contractor’s License (Class R-5 Residential) is a smart career move. It allows you to take on small residential jobs on the side and makes you a more attractive candidate for lead carpenter or superintendent roles.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Where you live in Billings affects your commute, lifestyle, and housing costs. As a carpenter, you likely have a truck or van, so a longer commute is often acceptable for more space and lower rent.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Why It’s Good for Carpenters
The Heights	Family-friendly, newer suburban feel. Easy access to I-90 and major retailers. Commute to most job sites: 10-20 min.	$900 - $1,100	Excellent for homeowners. Many newer homes here are built by Bennett Homes and others. Good schools, safe, and close to amenities.
West End / Downtown	Historic, walkable, character-filled. Older homes, many being renovated. Commute: 5-15 min.	$750 - $950	Prime for remodelers. You’re in the heart of custom home and restoration projects. A great place to network with architects and high-end builders.
Lockwood	Just east of Billings, across the Yellowstone River. More affordable, growing fast. Commute: 5-15 min.	$700 - $850	Great value. A mix of older homes and new subdivisions. Lower cost of living means you can afford a nicer place. Commute is easy.
Midtown	Central, convenient, with a mix of apartments and houses. Close to everything. Commute: 5-10 min.	$800 - $1,000	Convenience is key. You’re never far from a job site, a supply store (like Billings Lumber & Hardware), or a quick lunch.
The Rims	The affluent foothills west of downtown. Larger lots, spectacular views, luxury custom homes. Commute: 10-25 min.	$1,500+ (2BR+)	High-end work hub. Most custom builders and high-end remodelers work out here. Living here is expensive, but being close to the work can be worth it.

Insider Tip: Many carpenters live in the Heights or Lockwood for the space and affordability, then drive to the West End or Rims for work. The traffic is minimal, so a 20-minute drive is not a big deal.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Carpentry in Billings offers a clear path for advancement. The 5% growth over 10 years ensures demand, but specialization is where you increase your earnings.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Finish Carpentry & Cabinetmaking: +10-15% over base rate. High demand for custom work in the Rims and historic West End.
  • Structural Steel / Industrial: +15-20% for work on energy, ag, or industrial sites. Requires specific safety certs.
  • Restoration & Historic Preservation: A niche but growing field, especially with the historic tax credits for downtown buildings.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Apprentice → Journeyman: Master the core skills across residential and commercial projects.
  2. Journeyman → Lead Carpenter/Foreman: Develop leadership, project management, and client communication skills.
  3. Foreman → Superintendent: Oversee multiple projects, manage budgets, and coordinate subcontractors. Often leads to company ownership or partnership.
  4. Business Owner: Starting your own small shop, focusing on a specialty like custom decks, remodels, or historic restoration. The low barrier to entry (no state license for small jobs) makes this feasible.
• 10-Year Outlook: The energy sector (oil, gas, wind) in Eastern Montana will continue to drive industrial construction demand. The aging population will increase demand for home modifications (aging-in-place design). The key to long-term success will be building a reputation for reliability and quality in a small-city market where word-of-mouth is everything.

The Verdict: Is Billings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here.	Winters: Can be harsh, with snow and cold affecting work schedules (especially for outdoor projects).
Stable Job Market: 241 carpentry jobs and 5% growth mean steady work.	Isolation: It’s a 2-hour drive to Bozeman or 6 hours to Denver. Limited options for high-end specialty materials.
Strong Trade Community: Unions (IBEW, Carpentry Local) are respected.	Limited Nightlife/Arts: Compared to Bozeman or Missoula, Billings is more of a working city.
Outdoor Recreation: World-class fishing, hiking, and hunting are minutes away.	Wind: Billings is notoriously windy, especially in the spring and fall.
Home Ownership is Attainable: On a carpenter’s salary.	Competition for Top Jobs: The best positions at top firms are competitive.

Final Recommendation:
Billings is an excellent choice for carpenters who value practicality, affordability, and a strong sense of community. It’s ideal for those looking to put down roots, buy a home, and enjoy Montana’s outdoor lifestyle without the financial pressure and competition of Bozeman or Missoula. If you are a skilled, reliable journeyman or a motivated apprentice, Billings offers a clear path to a stable and rewarding career. For those seeking a vibrant, youthful, and fast-paced urban scene, it may feel too quiet.

FAQs

1. Do I need a union to find work in Billings?
No, union membership is not required. However, joining the local Carpentry Union (Local 1239) can provide access to large commercial projects, structured pension plans, and training. Many non-union residential and commercial shops also offer competitive wages and benefits. It’s a personal choice based on your career goals.

2. What’s the job market like for someone just starting an apprenticeship?
The market is welcoming to apprentices, especially with larger builders like Bennett Homes and commercial contractors. The Montana Carpenters Training Center in Billings is the primary hub for formal apprenticeship programs. You can also approach smaller shops directly to inquire about on-the-job training. Persistence is key.

3. How do I get my Montana Contractor’s License?
Visit the Montana DLI website and download the application for the Class R-5 Residential Contractor License. You’ll need to document your experience (a notarized letter from a former employer works), pass the business and law exam (cost: ~$200), and provide proof of insurance and a bond. The total cost is around $600-$800 for the first two years.

4. What are the best supply stores in Billings?
For general lumber and hardware, Billings Lumber & Hardware (on 1st Ave N) is a local institution with knowledgeable staff. For specialty finishing supplies, Sherwin-Williams and Home Depot have extensive selections. For tools, Northern Tool + Equipment and Sutherland’s are popular. Building relationships with the pros at these stores can lead to tips on jobs and material discounts.

5. Is the commute from Lockwood or the Heights really manageable?
Absolutely. Billings traffic is minimal. A commute from Lockwood to the West End is about 15 minutes. From the Heights to the Rims, it’s about 20 minutes. Most carpenters’ work vehicles are equipped for the drive. The main consideration is winter weather—allow extra time and ensure your vehicle has good tires and a block heater.