Carpenter in Jackson, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a local who's watched Jackson's construction scene for years, I can tell you straight up: if you're a skilled carpenter, Jackson offers a solid middle-of-the-road paycheck. The median salary here sits at $55,331/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.6/hour. That's slightly under the national average for carpenters, which is $56,920/year, but it's a respectable wage given Mississippi's low cost of living.

Here's how experience typically translates to pay in the Jackson metro area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range (Jackson)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$38,000 - $45,000	Basic framing, assisting senior carpenters, material handling
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$48,000 - $60,000	Independent project work, finish carpentry, reading blueprints
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$60,000 - $75,000	Project supervision, complex custom work, mentoring
Expert/Master (15+ years)	$75,000 - $95,000+	Business ownership, specialty work (historical restoration, high-end custom)

Compared to other Mississippi cities, Jackson's carpenter salaries are competitive but not the highest. In Gulfport-Biloxi, you might earn 5-10% more due to hurricane rebuilding demands, but the cost of living is higher. In Hattiesburg, salaries are similar but the job market is smaller. For a carpenter with a family, Jackson's balance of pay and affordability makes it a strong contender.

Insider Tip: The 5% job growth over 10 years (BLS data) is modest but steady. This isn't a booming market like Texas or Florida, but it means there's consistent demand without the feast-or-famine cycles. The 287 jobs currently in the metro area give you a realistic pool of opportunities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about what that $55,331/year actually means in your pocket. After federal taxes (approx. 12-15% for this bracket), Social Security, and Mississippi's 5% state income tax, your monthly take-home is roughly $3,600 - $3,700.

The average 1BR rent in Jackson is $997/month, which is 25% of your gross income. After taxes and rent, you're left with about $2,600/month for utilities, food, transportation, and savings. Here's a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (Jackson Average)	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$997	Can be lower in suburbs like Flowood or higher in Belhaven
Utilities	$180	Electricity (high in summer), water, gas, trash
Groceries	$350	Single person; add $200+ for a family
Transportation	$250	Gas, insurance, maintenance (most carpenters drive trucks)
Health Insurance	$150-300	Varies by employer; many small contractors offer limited benefits
Miscellaneous	$300	Tools, phone, entertainment
Total Essential	~$2,227	Leaves ~$1,373 for savings/debt/family

Can you afford to buy a home? Yes, but it requires careful planning. The median home price in Jackson is around $180,000. With a $55,331 salary, you'd need a down payment (ideally 10-20%) and to keep your mortgage payment under 28% of your gross income. A 30-year mortgage at current rates (6-7%) would be around $1,100/month for a $180k home—doable if you have minimal other debt. Many local carpenters buy in suburbs like Pearl or Brandon where prices are lower.

Insider Tip: Jackson has a program called the "Jackson Homebuyer Assistance Program" that offers down payment help for qualifying buyers. It's worth checking if you plan to stay long-term.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

Jackson's carpentry job market is driven by a mix of large construction firms, specialty contractors, and restoration companies. Here are the key players:

1. Ewing & Sons Construction - A Jackson-based firm specializing in commercial and high-end residential work. They often hire mid-level carpenters for projects in the Fondren and Belhaven neighborhoods. They tend to hire in spring for summer projects.

2. Mississippi Restoration - This company focuses on historical building restoration—think the Mississippi State Capitol and older homes in the Millsaps-Williams area. They pay a premium for finish carpenters skilled with traditional tools. Hiring is project-based, so networking is key.

3. T L Wallace Construction - Based in nearby Clinton, they handle large commercial projects (schools, hospitals). They offer steady work and benefits, which is a rarity for smaller carpenters. They often post jobs on Mississippi Works.

4. Gulf Coast Lumber & Supply - While primarily a lumber yard, they have a contracting arm that does custom work. Good for entry-level carpenters looking to learn while earning. Located in Flowood, a 15-minute commute from downtown Jackson.

5. St. Dominic Hospital - Their facilities team includes carpenters for maintenance and remodels. Government or institutional jobs like this offer stability and benefits. Check the "Careers" page on their website regularly.

6. Jackson Public Schools - The district's maintenance department hires carpenters for school repairs and renovations. The hiring process is slower (government), but the benefits are solid. Union representation is possible through the Mississippi Building Trades.

7. Local Custom Home Builders - Firms like "Magnolia Homes" and "Riverbend Builders" in the Madison/Ridgeland area (just north of Jackson) often need skilled carpenters for high-end homes. Pay can be 10-15% above median if you have finish carpentry expertise.

Hiring Trends: Post-hurricane rebuilding demand is steady but focused on the Gulf Coast. In Jackson, the growth is in healthcare (new clinics) and education (school renovations). Green building is emerging—carpenters with experience in energy-efficient techniques have an edge. Most hiring happens through word-of-mouth; joining the Mississippi Carpenter's Union (Local 1849) can connect you to union contractors.

Getting Licensed in Mississippi

Mississippi doesn't have a statewide journeyman carpenter license, but if you want to work independently or pull permits, you'll need a contractor's license. Here's the breakdown:

• Mississippi State Board of Contractors handles licensing. For residential carpentry, you need a "Residential Builder" license if you're doing projects over $50,000 or commercial work over $10,000.
• Requirements: You must have 2-4 years of experience (documented with tax returns or employer affidavits) and pass an exam. The exam costs $250 and covers business management and trade knowledge.
• Costs: License application fee is $150, plus a $10,000 surety bond (which can be obtained for $300-$500/year through a bonding company).
• Timeline: If you have the experience, you can apply and be licensed in 2-3 months. Without experience, you'll need to work under a licensed contractor for at least 2 years.
• Alternative: Many carpenters work under a contractor's license without getting their own. This is common for employees of larger firms.

Insider Tip: The Mississippi Home Builders Association offers pre-license courses that prepare you for the exam. It's worth the $300 investment if you're serious about going solo.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Where you live affects your commute, lifestyle, and housing costs. Here are top picks for carpenters:

1. Flowood - A suburb east of Jackson. Many construction companies are based here (like Gulf Coast Lumber). Median 1BR rent: $950/month. Commute to downtown: 15-20 minutes. Family-friendly with good schools. Best for: Those who want suburban life with easy access to jobs.

2. Pearl - Northwest of Jackson, home to the Outlets and many new developments. Rent is similar to Flowood ($900-$1,000/month). Commute is 10-15 minutes to central Jackson. More affordable housing options. Best for: Budget-conscious carpenters looking to buy a home soon.

3. Belhaven - Historic neighborhood near downtown Jackson. Rent is higher ($1,100-$1,300/month) but you're close to job sites in the city center. Walkable, with cafes and parks. Best for: Younger carpenters who want an urban lifestyle and short commutes.

4. Madison/Ridgeland - North of Jackson (20-25 minute commute). Rent is $1,200-$1,500/month, but it's where high-end custom home builders are located. Best for: Experienced carpenters specializing in luxury homes who can afford the higher rent.

5. Brandon - Southeast of Jackson, 20 minutes out. Rent is affordable ($900/month), and there's steady demand from suburban growth. Best for: Families looking for more space and safety.

Insider Tip: If you're new to Jackson, rent in Flowood or Pearl for the first year. It's cheaper and you'll be closer to the majority of job sites. Then, if you want a more historic vibe, consider moving to Belhaven once you've established yourself.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Jackson isn't a market for overnight riches, but there are clear paths to higher earnings:

• Specialty Premiums: Finish carpenters can earn 10-20% more than general carpenters. Historical restoration skills (used by Mississippi Restoration) can push you into the $70,000+ range. Custom cabinet makers also command higher rates.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Carpenter → Lead Carpenter → Project Supervisor: With a contractor's license, you can start your own small business. Many Jackson carpenters run "side gigs" while employed.
  2. Union Path: Join the Mississippi Carpenter's Union for access to larger projects (like state buildings) and pension benefits. Union wages are typically 10-15% higher than non-union.
  3. Commercial vs. Residential: Commercial work (schools, hospitals) offers steadier hours and benefits. Residential has more variability but higher potential for custom work.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is modest, but with an aging population and aging infrastructure, demand for skilled carpenters for renovations and repairs will persist. Green building certifications (like LEED) could become more valuable. The rise of remote work may increase demand for home office remodels.

Insider Tip: Take a course in historical carpentry at the Mississippi Craft Center in Ridgeland. It's a niche that pays well and has less competition.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Here's a quick pros and cons table to help you decide:

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living (90.7 index) means your $55,331 goes further	Job growth is slow (5%); limited high-paying specialty roles
Steady demand from healthcare/education construction	Summers are brutally hot, which can affect outdoor work
No state license required for basic carpentry work	Union presence is weak compared to other states
Diverse job opportunities (commercial, residential, restoration)	Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates; research carefully
Southern hospitality and a tight-knit trade community	Limited public transportation; you'll need a reliable truck/van
Proximity to Gulf Coast for hurricane-related work (if you travel)	Winters are mild but occasionally icy, causing delays

Final Recommendation: Jackson is a good fit for mid-level carpenters who value stability and affordability over high growth. It's ideal if you're willing to start your own business or specialize in a niche like restoration. If you're early in your career, it's a great place to gain experience without high living costs. However, if you're seeking rapid advancement or six-figure earnings, you might look to larger markets like Dallas or Atlanta. For a family-focused carpenter with a $55,331 salary, Jackson offers a comfortable, manageable lifestyle.

FAQs

Q: Can I make more than the median salary in Jackson?
A: Yes, but it requires specialization. Finish carpenters, custom cabinet makers, and those with contractor licenses can earn $65,000-$80,000. Union carpenters also exceed the median. The key is to build a reputation for quality work.

Q: Is the job market competitive?
A: With 287 jobs in the metro, it's not overly competitive, but networking is crucial. Join local trade groups like the Jackson Builders Association. Many jobs are never posted online; they're filled through referrals.

Q: What tools do I need to get started?
A: As an employee, most employers provide major tools. As a solo contractor, you'll need a full set (circular saw, miter saw, drills, etc.)—budget $3,000-$5,000. You can buy used tools from Gulf Coast Lumber to save money.

Q: How's the work-life balance?
A: It depends on your employer. Commercial projects often have set hours (7-3:30), while residential work can be variable. Summers are busy; winters slower. Most carpenters I know work 40-50 hours/week, with some overtime during peak season.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for carpenters moving to Jackson?
A: Building a network. It's a small market where relationships matter. Attend events at the Mississippi Trade Center, and don't be shy about introducing yourself at job sites. The first 6 months can be tough, but once you're in, you're set.