Carpenter in Hattiesburg, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Hattiesburg Stands

If you're a carpenter eyeing the Hub City, the first thing you need to know is how your paycheck stacks up. Let's cut through the noise with hard data. The median annual salary for a carpenter in the Hattiesburg metro area is $55,092, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.49. This is slightly below the national average for the occupation, which sits at $56,920/year. The job market here is tight but steady, with approximately 97 employed carpenters in the metro area (Hattiesburg, MS Metro Area). Over the next decade, the field is projected to grow by 5%, a stable but not explosive pace.

Here’s a realistic look at salary progression based on experience:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Salary Range (Annual)	Hourly Rate Range
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$40,000 - $48,000	$19.23 - $23.08
Mid-Career	2-8 years	$55,000 - $65,000	$26.44 - $31.25
Senior	8-15 years	$65,000 - $75,000	$31.25 - $36.06
Expert/Lead	15+ years	$75,000+	$36.06+

Note: Ranges are estimates based on local job postings and industry data. Specialization can push these numbers higher.

Comparing to Other Mississippi Cities:
Hattiesburg’s median salary of $55,092 is competitive within the state. It generally trails larger metros like Jackson but is comparable to Gulfport-Biloxi and ahead of smaller markets like Meridian. For a carpenter, this means you can earn a solid wage without the high cost of living found in bigger cities. The key is finding the right employer and specialty.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your gross salary is one thing; knowing what you can actually live on is another. Hattiesburg’s cost of living index is 89.3, meaning it’s about 10.7% cheaper than the national average. A major factor is housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hattiesburg is $906/month.

Let’s break down the monthly budget for a mid-career carpenter earning the median salary of $55,092/year. Using Mississippi’s tax rate of roughly 5% for state income tax (federal taxes vary, but we’ll estimate 12% for this bracket), plus FICA (7.65%), your take-home pay will be approximately $3,650/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Pre-Tax $55,092 / $3,650 Take-Home):

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR)	$906	Average across the metro.
Utilities	$150	Estimates for power, water, gas, internet.
Transportation	$350	Gas, insurance, maintenance.
Groceries	$300	For one person.
Health Insurance	$250	Varies widely by employer.
Taxes (State/Fed/FICA)	$1,342	Already deducted from take-home.
Total Essential	$1,956	54% of take-home pay.
Remaining Discretionary	$1,694	For savings, debt, entertainment, etc.

Insider Tip: Many local employers, especially larger construction firms, offer health insurance that significantly reduces your out-of-pocket cost. Always ask about benefits during the interview process.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. With $1,694 in discretionary income after essential bills, a carpenter earning the median wage can comfortably save for a down payment. Hattiesburg’s housing market is very affordable. The median home price is around $180,000. A 20% down payment is $36,000, which is achievable over a few years of dedicated saving. Your monthly mortgage payment on a $180k home would be roughly $1,100-$1,200 (including taxes and insurance), which is manageable on this salary, especially if you have a dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Hattiesburg's Major Employers

The job market for carpenters in Hattiesburg is diverse, spanning new residential construction, commercial projects, and institutional work. Here are the key players and some insider context:

1. Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast: A major employer for skilled laborers. They frequently hire carpenters for their home-building projects. The work is meaningful, and they often provide on-the-job training for certain techniques. Hiring is steady but project-based.
2. Southern Mississippi Regional Housing Authority (SMRHA): This agency manages public housing and often has capital improvement projects requiring skilled carpenters for renovations and repairs. It’s a stable, government-backed gig with good benefits.
3. Local Commercial Contractors: Firms like T.L. Wallace Construction (based in Columbia, MS, but active in the Hattiesburg area) and Brasfield & Gorrie (with a regional office in Jackson that services Hattiesburg) hire for large-scale commercial projects. These jobs are often found through union halls or direct applications on their websites. They pay at the higher end of the scale.
4. Custom Home Builders: Dozens of smaller, local builders operate in the Pine Belt. Companies like Hattiesburg Construction Co. or Pine Belt Custom Homes are always looking for skilled finish carpenters. Networking at local lumber yards (like Habitat for Humanity ReStore or BMC Lumber) is a classic way to find these opportunities.
5. University of Southern Mississippi (USM): The university maintains its vast campus with its own facilities crew. They hire carpenters for ongoing maintenance, classroom renovations, and special projects. This offers a stable, salaried position with state benefits.
6. Forrest General Hospital / Hattiesburg Clinic: Healthcare systems constantly update facilities. Their facilities management teams employ carpenters for everything from building medical cabinetry to remodeling patient rooms. These are often union positions with excellent benefits and a steady 9-to-5 schedule.

Hiring Trends: There’s a noticeable demand for carpenters proficient in OSHA 30 certification and scaffold building for commercial work. For residential, expertise in energy-efficient framing and advanced finish work (like custom millwork) makes you stand out. Many employers are struggling to find younger apprentices, so if you have journeyman-level experience, you’re in high demand.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi does not have a statewide journeyman carpenter license. However, for electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, you must be licensed through the Mississippi Board of Contractors. For pure carpentry, licensing is generally handled at the city or county level, especially for structural work.

Key Requirements & Costs:

• City Permits: For structural projects (framing, decks, additions), you will need to pull permits from the City of Hattiesburg’s Planning & Zoning Department. As a contractor, you’ll need to register your business with the city. Fees are modest, typically $50-$150 for registration and per-project permit fees based on job value.
• Business License: If you’re working for yourself, you must obtain a business license from the City of Hattiesburg. There’s an annual fee based on your projected revenue.
• Insurance: Liability insurance is crucial. While not a “license,” it’s a non-negotiable requirement for any legitimate work. Expect to pay $1,000-$2,000 annually for a basic policy if you’re a sole proprietor.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. If you’re an employee: You can start working immediately under a licensed contractor. No state license is needed on your part.
2. If you’re going solo: Allow 2-4 weeks to register your business with the city, get your business license, and secure insurance. The process is straightforward; the city’s Small Business Development Office can provide guidance.

Insider Tip: While the state doesn’t license carpenters, getting your OSHA 30 certification (often provided by employers) and CPR/First Aid certification makes you a more attractive hire for commercial and institutional projects.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Choosing where to live in Hattiesburg impacts your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s take on neighborhoods that work well for tradespeople.

1. West Hattiesburg / Oak Grove: This is the classic choice for tradespeople. It’s close to Highway 98 and I-59, giving you quick access to job sites across the metro. The area is filled with subdivisions built in the 90s and 2000s, meaning plenty of renovation work. Rent for a 1BR is around $850-$950/month. Lifestyle is family-oriented, with good schools.
2. East Hattiesburg / Petal: Technically its own town but part of the metro, Petal is a quick 10-15 minute drive from Hattiesburg’s commercial core. It offers a small-town feel with lower home prices and rent. Commute to most job sites is easy via Highway 42/27. Rent is similar to West Hattiesburg, often slightly cheaper ($800-$900). A great option if you want to own a home sooner.
3. The Avenues / Midtown: This historic area near USM offers older homes with character. It’s less about new construction and more about restoration and renovation work. Commute to downtown or the university is a breeze. Rent can be more variable, from $750-$1,100 for a 1BR, depending on the condition of the unit. Best for those who enjoy an older, walkable neighborhood vibe.
4. North Hattiesburg: More rural, with larger lots and lower population density. Commute times to the city center can be 15-20 minutes, but you’ll get more space for your money. Rent for a 1BR can be as low as $700-$850. Ideal if you have a workshop at home or simply prefer a quieter setting.
5. Downtown Hattiesburg: The revitalized downtown area is walkable and vibrant, with new apartments and lofts. It’s better suited for a young professional without a family, as schools are less of a draw here. Commute to job sites is easy, but parking a work truck might be a challenge. Rent is the highest here, from $950-$1,200+ for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A carpenter’s career in Hattiesburg isn’t a dead-end job; it’s a ladder. Here’s how you can climb it and what the premiums are for specialization.

Specialty Premiums:

• Finish Carpentry / Millwork: Expertise in crown molding, custom cabinetry, and high-end trim work can command a 10-15% premium over general framing. This skill is in demand for custom home builders and renovation projects.
• Commercial Formwork & Framing: Working with steel studs, complex layouts, and strict commercial blueprints pays more than residential. Expect a 15-20% premium.
• Historic Restoration: Hattiesburg has several historic districts. If you have skills in working with old-growth wood, lime plaster, and period-accurate techniques, you can find niche, high-paying work.
• Green Building / Energy Efficiency: With the push for energy codes, carpenters who understand advanced framing techniques, air sealing, and working with materials like structural insulated panels (SIPs) are increasingly valuable.

Advancement Paths:

1. From Employee to Foreman: After 5-10 years, you can move into a foreman role, managing a crew. This often comes with a salary bump and more stable hours.
2. From Foreman to Superintendent: For commercial projects, superintendents oversee the entire job site. This requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of all trades, not just carpentry.
3. The Entrepreneurial Path: The most common path to the highest earnings. Start your own small business doing renovations, custom work, or small additions. Successful sole proprietors in Hattiesburg can earn well over $75,000/year, but this comes with the burden of marketing, insurance, and client management.

10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is solid. The aging workforce in Mississippi means there will be consistent demand for skilled carpenters. The biggest opportunity lies in the gap between the retiring generation of master carpenters and the incoming workforce. If you position yourself as a reliable, skilled, and business-savvy carpenter, your earning potential will outpace the median salary within a decade.

The Verdict: Is Hattiesburg Right for You?

Hattiesburg offers a compelling package for a carpenter seeking a good quality of life without the bustle of a major city. It’s a place where your skills are valued, and your paycheck goes far. However, it’s not for everyone.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $55,092 median salary stretches much further here.	Limited Niche Markets: Fewer ultra-high-end custom home clients compared to major metros.
Stable, Diverse Job Market: Work in residential, commercial, and institutional settings.	Wages Trail National Average: Though the cost of living offsets this, you may earn less in gross pay.
Short Commutes: Most job sites are within 20 minutes, even in neighboring towns.	Limited Public Transport: You'll need a reliable truck or van for work.
Strong Community & Networking: Small enough to know people, big enough for opportunity.	Slower Pace of Life: If you crave cosmopolitan energy, you might find it quiet.
Homeownership is Achievable: A real possibility on a carpenter's salary.	Summer Humidity: The weather is a factor for outdoor work for a good chunk of the year.

Final Recommendation:
Hattiesburg is an excellent choice for career-focused carpenters who value affordability, work-life balance, and community. It’s particularly suited for those with 5+ years of experience ready to take on foreman roles or start their own small business. For entry-level carpenters, it’s a good place to learn the trade, but the small job market means you must be proactive in seeking out employers. If you’re looking for the highest possible wages and don’t mind a higher cost of living, a larger metro might be a better fit. But for a sustainable, rewarding career in a welcoming city, Hattiesburg is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Do I need my own tools to get a job as a carpenter in Hattiesburg?
A: Yes. For most entry and mid-level positions, you are expected to have your own basic hand tools (hammer, tape measure, level, saw, etc.). Larger power tools (table saw, miter saw) are often provided by the employer, especially on commercial sites. For self-employed work, you’ll need a full set.

Q: Is it easy to find union work in Hattiesburg?
A: Union presence is limited but exists. The Southeast Regional Council of Carpenters covers Mississippi. Local 201 (based in Jackson) may have members working in the Hattiesburg area on large commercial projects. It’s best to contact the union hall directly to inquire about work availability and membership.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for carpenters moving to Hattiesburg?
A: The biggest challenge can be building a client base if you go self-employed. The market is relationship-driven. Joining local builder associations (like the Hattiesburg Area Builders Association) and networking at supply houses is essential. As an employee, the challenge is finding the right fit among the smaller firms, which is why using online job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn is critical.

Q: How do I stay busy during the slow season?
A: While construction is year-round, there can be a slight dip in deep winter and peak summer heat. Smart carpenters diversify. Focus on interior renovation projects (kitchens, bathrooms) during the cold months. During the summer, commercial projects and outdoor structures (decks, pergolas) are common. Some also do furniture building or custom cabinetry as a side hustle.

Q: What’s the best way to learn about job openings?
A: Word-of-mouth is huge in Hattiesburg. Tell everyone you’re a carpenter. Also, check the websites of the major employers listed above. Local lumber yards like BMC Lumber are bulletin boards for hiring; spend time there and talk to the staff. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a simple Google search for “carpenter jobs Hattiesburg MS” and applying directly.