Carpenter in Bloomington, MN

The Salary Picture: Where Bloomington Stands

For a carpenter considering a move to Bloomington, MN, the first question is always about the bottom line. Let's be direct: the earning potential here is solid, slightly above the national average, but it comes with the cost of living in a well-maintained, desirable suburb. The median salary for a carpenter in the Bloomington metro area is $57,688/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.73/hour. This is a hair above the national average of $56,920/year, reflecting the strong construction market in the Twin Cities metro. However, with only 174 jobs currently listed in the metro and a 10-year job growth of 5%, this isn't a booming, high-turnover market. It's a stable, steady field where experience and reliability are rewarded over rapid expansion.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in this area. These are market estimates based on local job postings and industry reports.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$40,000 - $50,000	Basic framing, finishing, tool maintenance, following lead carpenter's instructions.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$57,688 (Median)	Reading blueprints independently, complex trim work, residential remodels, managing project phases.
Senior-Level (8-12 yrs)	$65,000 - $75,000	Project estimation, crew leadership, commercial work, specialty skills (e.g., timber framing).
Expert/Lead (12+ yrs)	$75,000 - $90,000+	Running a crew, business development, high-end custom homes, consulting, teaching.

Compared to other major Minnesota cities, Bloomington sits in a competitive middle ground. While Minneapolis and St. Paul might offer marginally higher top-end salaries due to larger commercial projects, the cost of living can be significantly higher, especially in immediate downtown areas. Rochester, home to the Mayo Clinic, has a strong, stable demand for skilled trades but is a smaller, more specialized market. Duluth offers a lower cost of living but also fewer large-scale residential projects. Bloomington’s value proposition is its stability and location: you’re in the heart of the Twin Cities metro with easy access to both downtowns, the airport, and a massive residential and commercial base, without the premium price of living in the city center.

Insider Tip: The $57,688 median is a reliable benchmark, but your actual earnings will heavily depend on your specialization. A framer on a new subdivision in the southern suburbs might start lower, while a finish carpenter with a reputation for flawless custom cabinetry in the upscale neighborhoods of Edina or Minnetonka can command rates well above this median. Networking with local lumberyards like Habitat for Humanity ReStore (which has a Bloomington location) or Menards can provide leads on the best-paying contractors.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your net income is crucial. Let’s break down the monthly budget for a mid-level carpenter earning the median salary of $57,688/year. We’ll account for taxes and the local cost of living.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $57,688/year)

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Income	$4,807	$57,688 / 12
Taxes (Federal, State, FICA)	~$1,100	Based on MN tax rates. Use a calculator for precise figures.
Net Income	~$3,707	This is your take-home pay.
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,327	Bloomington's average market rate.
Utilities (Est.)	$200	Includes electricity, heat, internet.
Transportation (Car Payment/Gas/Ins.)	$500	A reliable vehicle is essential for tools and commuting.
Groceries & Essentials	$400
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$300	Varies widely.
Tools & Maintenance	$150	A non-negotiable for a professional carpenter.
Discretionary/Savings	~$730	This goes toward savings, retirement, or leisure.

Can you afford to buy a home? The short answer is: it's challenging on a single median income, but possible with careful planning. The Bloomington housing market is competitive. The Cost of Living Index of 104.5 (US avg = 100) means everything from groceries to housing is about 4.5% more expensive than the national average. The median home price in Bloomington often hovers around $350,000 - $400,000. With your net income of ~$3,707/month, a mortgage at today's rates on a $375,000 home (with 10-20% down) would be $1,600 - $1,900/month, including taxes and insurance. That would consume 43-51% of your net income, which is above the recommended 30% threshold. However, if you combine incomes with a partner or advance to a senior-level salary ($65,000+), homeownership becomes much more attainable. Many local carpenters buy homes in adjacent areas like Richfield or Eagan, where prices are slightly lower.

Where the Jobs Are: Bloomington's Major Employers

Bloomington’s job market for carpenters is anchored by a mix of large-scale residential builders, commercial contractors, and specialty firms. The 174 jobs in the metro are spread across these sectors. Hiring tends to be steady, with peaks in the spring and early summer. Here are the key local players:

1. Rochester-based (but active in Twin Cities): While based in Rochester, Ken Schmidt Construction and similar firms often bid on larger projects in the Bloomington area, especially for healthcare-related facilities near the airport.
2. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity: The local chapter, with a ReStore in Bloomington, is a consistent source of work for carpenters. They focus on building affordable homes and frequently hire skilled labor for their construction projects. It’s a great way to build a portfolio if you’re new to the area.
3. Custom Home Builders: Firms like Wendy Johnson Design Build (serving the Lake Minnetonka area but with Bloomington clients) and Rosenberg Design Build specialize in high-end renovations and custom homes. These are the best-paying gigs but require a top-tier finish carpenter’s skill set.
4. Commercial Contractors: Ryan Companies and M.A. Mortenson Co. have major offices in the Twin Cities and frequently work on commercial projects in Bloomington, including retail spaces near the Mall of America and office buildings. They offer stability and benefits but often require union membership (see Getting Licensed in MN below).
5. Property Management Firms: Bloomington has a massive rental market. Companies like Bloomington Housing and Redevelopment Authority (BHRA) and large private landlords (e.g., Aeon) need maintenance carpenters for ongoing property upkeep. This is steady, year-round work.
6. Industrial/Manufacturing: The area around the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is packed with warehouses and logistics companies. Firms like DHL or FedEx build and maintain large facilities, requiring carpenters for interior build-outs and repairs.
7. Government & Institutional: The City of Bloomington itself and Bloomington Public Schools have facilities departments that hire carpenters for maintenance and renovation projects. These jobs offer excellent benefits and job security.

Insider Tip: The Bloomington City Center and the South Loop area are undergoing continuous redevelopment. Walking into the offices of local contractors with a portfolio (even a digital one on your phone) can be more effective than just applying online. Also, the Bloomington Chamber of Commerce events are a good place to meet property managers and builders.

Getting Licensed in MN

Minnesota has specific requirements for carpenters, especially those working on residential projects. It’s not a "licensed" trade in the same way as electricians or plumbers, but there are crucial steps to follow.

State Requirements:

• Residential Builder/Remodeler License: If you plan to contract directly with homeowners for residential projects valued at $15,000 or more (or $5,000 for roofing), you must obtain a license from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). This requires passing an exam, showing proof of general liability insurance, and providing a $25,000 surety bond. The exam fee is approximately $150, and the license application fee is $150 initially, with $120 for renewal every two years.
• Journeyworker Status: For commercial work, many contractors require you to be a registered journeyworker. This typically requires completing a state-approved apprenticeship program (4 years, 8,000 hours) and passing the journeyworker exam. The Twin Cities Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Program is the primary local provider.
• Workers' Compensation: If you have employees, you must carry workers' compensation insurance. As a sole proprietor, you can exempt yourself, but it's highly recommended to have it.

Timeline & Cost to Get Started:

1. If you're already licensed elsewhere: Check for reciprocity with Minnesota. You'll likely need to take the state-specific law and business exam.
2. If you're starting fresh: Enroll in a pre-apprenticeship program (like those at Dunwoody College of Technology or Hennepin Technical College). This can take 6-12 months and cost $5,000 - $15,000 in tuition.
3. Apprenticeship: The 4-year apprenticeship is the most common path to journeyworker status. You earn while you learn, starting at 40-50% of a journeyworker's wage. Total program cost is often minimal, covered by union dues or employer contributions.
4. Total Initial Investment: Budget $500 - $1,000 for exam fees, bonds, and licensing if you’re establishing a small business. For education, costs vary widely.

Resource: Always check the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) website for the most current regulations. The St. Paul DLI office is the closest for in-person inquiries.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Choosing where to live affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods in and around Bloomington.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Approx. 1BR Rent	Why It's Good for Carpenters
Downtown Bloomington	Urban-suburban mix, walkable, near the MOA. Commute to most jobs is 5-15 mins.	$1,400 - $1,600	Central location, easy access to I-494 & I-35W. Close to hardware stores and suppliers.
Southwest Bloomington (near Normandale Lake)	Quieter, residential, established homes. Commute: 10-20 mins.	$1,250 - $1,450	More affordable, many older homes needing renovation (potential side gigs). Less traffic.
Richfield (Just North)	Classic suburb, diverse, good value. Commute to Bloomington jobs: 5-15 mins.	$1,100 - $1,300	Lower cost of living, strong community, easy access to Minneapolis.
Eagan (South of Bloomington)	Modern suburb, family-oriented, near airport/industrial areas. Commute: 10-25 mins.	$1,200 - $1,400	Proximity to major commercial/industrial construction sites and airport logistics jobs.
Edina (West of Bloomington)	Upscale, expensive, high-end homes. Commute: 15-30 mins (can be traffic-heavy).	$1,600 - $2,000+	The epicenter for high-paying custom finish carpentry work. Networking opportunities are elite.

Insider Tip: If you work on custom homes, living closer to Edina or Minnetonka puts you in the heart of the high-end market. If you're focused on commercial or industrial work around the airport, Eagan or Richfield offers a shorter commute and lower rent. Avoid the immediate area around the Mall of America if you value peace and quiet—it’s a constant hub of traffic.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Carpentry in Bloomington isn't a dead-end job; it's a trade with clear advancement paths. The 10-year job growth of 5% signals stability, not a gold rush, so specialization is key to income growth.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Finish Carpentry & Custom Cabinetry: This is where the real money is. Masters in this area can earn 10-20% above the median, especially with a portfolio of high-end work. The demand for custom built-ins and trim work in Edina and Lake Minnetonka homes is constant.
  • Commercial/Industrial: Requires knowledge of steel studs, drywall systems, and commercial codes. Pay is often union-scale, which can be $45-$55/hour for journeymen, offering excellent benefits.
  • Green Building/Passive House: Minnesota has a growing focus on energy efficiency. Carpenters trained in advanced sealing techniques, double-stud walls, and solar-ready framing can position themselves for a premium niche.
  • Project Management/Estimation: Moving from the tools to the office. This path leverages your hands-on experience to manage timelines, budgets, and clients. Salaries can jump to $70,000 - $90,000+.

10-Year Outlook:
The core demand will remain in residential remodels (as the housing stock ages) and commercial fit-outs (retail, office, medical). Automation will affect some repetitive tasks, but the need for skilled problem-solving, custom work, and on-site adaptation will keep carpenters essential. The key to longevity is continual skill development—learning new materials (like composite decking, advanced sealants) and building codes. The most successful local carpenters often start with a tool and a truck, build a reputation for reliability and quality, and eventually scale into a small business, hiring apprentices and bidding on larger projects.

The Verdict: Is Bloomington Right for You?

Bloomington offers a strong, stable career path for a carpenter who values balance. It’s not the place for someone seeking explosive growth or the lowest cost of living, but it’s an excellent choice for a skilled tradesperson who wants steady work, a good community, and access to a major metro area without the chaos of a dense city core.

Pros	Cons
Stable Market: Consistent demand in residential and commercial sectors.	Slightly Higher Cost of Living: Rent and home prices are above the national average.
Central Location: Easy access to Twin Cities job markets, MSP Airport, and major suppliers.	Competitive for Top Jobs: High-end custom work requires a proven reputation.
Diverse Opportunities: From affordable housing to luxury custom homes and industrial facilities.	Seasonal Weather: Winters can slow outdoor work, requiring planning for indoor projects.
Reputable Employers: Presence of major contractors and stable institutional employers.	Job Growth is Modest: The 5% growth means you must be proactive in networking.
Good Work-Life Balance: Suburban setting with parks (like Hyland Lake) and amenities.	Union Influence: Commercial work often requires union membership, which has upfront costs.

Final Recommendation:
Bloomington is a "green light" for mid-career carpenters with 3-7 years of experience who are ready to specialize and build a stable life. It’s ideal for someone who wants to transition from entry-level work to more complex projects, with the financial stability to eventually buy a home. For entry-level carpenters, the path is clear but requires dedication to apprenticeship or education. For experts, the market rewards niche skills, especially in finish work and project management. If you’re a self-starter who can build a local network, Bloomington offers a sustainable and rewarding career.

FAQs

1. Do I need a union card to work in Bloomington?
Not for all jobs. Residential remodelers and small custom builders often run non-union. However, for large commercial projects (like those by Ryan Companies or Mortenson), being a member of the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters is often a prerequisite. It’s wise to explore union apprenticeship programs as they offer structured training and benefits.

2. What’s the winter work situation?
Minnesota winters are real. Outdoor framing and siding work largely shuts down from November to March. This is the time for interior projects, shop work, tool maintenance, and continuing education. Many carpenters use the winter to bid on spring projects. Budgeting for this seasonal slowdown is part of the profession here.

3. How do I find a job quickly?
Start with the Twin Cities Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Center website for union jobs. For non-union work, check **Indeed