Carpenter in Jackson, WY

As a career analyst who’s spent enough time in Jackson to know which coffee shops have the best Wi-Fi for remote work, I’ve put together this no-fluff guide for carpenters considering a move here. Jackson isn't your typical Wyoming town—it's a unique blend of ultra-wealthy resort economy, a tight-knit local community, and a housing market that can be a real puzzle. Let's break down what it actually looks like to build a career here.

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

Nationally, carpentry is a solid middle-class trade, but local economies create significant variation. In Jackson, you're in a high-cost tourism and construction hub, which can mean good pay, but it's essential to see the numbers.

The median salary for a carpenter in the Jackson, WY Metro Area is $56,407/year. For full-time work, that translates to an hourly rate of $27.12/hour. It's important to note that this is slightly below the national average for carpenters, which sits at $56,920/year. This differential is key—it suggests that while Jackson's cost of living isn't as extreme as New York or California, the local wage structure hasn't fully caught up, possibly due to a mix of seasonal work and a reliance on subcontractors.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect based on experience level:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Jackson, WY)
Entry-Level	0-2	$42,000 - $50,000
Mid-Career	3-7	$52,000 - $62,000
Senior Carpenter	8-15	$60,000 - $75,000+
Expert/Foreman	15+	$70,000 - $90,000+ (often with benefits)

Insider Tip: The upper end of these ranges is heavily dependent on your ability to secure year-round work with high-end custom builders. If you’re only working seasonally on vacation homes, your annual income will be lower.

How does Jackson compare to other Wyoming cities?

• Cheyenne & Casper: Salaries are often 5-10% higher due to more industrial and commercial construction. However, the cost of living is also higher in those metro areas.
• Cody & Sheridan: Salaries are likely on par or slightly lower, but the housing market is also extremely competitive.
• Jackson's unique position: It's the epicenter of a luxury construction market, which can offer premium projects, but also attracts a large pool of skilled labor, including from out of state, keeping wages competitive but not exceptionally high for the region.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $56,407 is about $4,700 per month before taxes. After federal, state (Wyoming has no state income tax, which is a plus), and FICA taxes, you're looking at roughly $3,700 per month take-home pay.

Now, let's factor in the biggest local expense: housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Jackson is $921/month. This is surprisingly reasonable compared to national resort towns, but it's a deceptive number. This average includes older, smaller units in the town of Jackson proper. In reality, finding a one-bedroom for this price requires effort and likely a roommate situation.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Carpenter Earning $56,407:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR)	$921	The average, but competitive market.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$250 - $350	Winters are cold; heating costs are real.
Food	$400 - $500	Groceries are pricey; no major chains like Walmart.
Transportation	$200 - $300	Gas is ~$0.50/gal above national avg.
Health Insurance	$250 - $400	If not covered by an employer.
Miscellaneous/Savings	$800 - $1,000	After all essential expenses.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Short answer: On a single median salary, it's very difficult. The median home price in Jackson is over $1.2 million. A 20% down payment would be $240,000. Even with a 5% down payment, the monthly mortgage would be over $5,500, which is unsustainable on a $4,700 gross monthly income. Most successful homeowners here are either couples with dual high incomes, have substantial family wealth, or have built significant equity in a previous market. For most carpenters, homeownership in the core of Teton County is a long-term goal requiring substantial savings or partnership.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

The construction scene in Jackson is year-round but heavily seasonal from May to September. Knowing the major players is crucial.

1. Custom Home Builders: Companies like Glenwood Builders, Teton Village Construction, and Highline Construction specialize in multi-million dollar homes in areas like Teton Pines, The Aspens, and Wilson. They hire skilled carpenters for finish work, framing, and project management. Hiring is often done 2-3 months before the busy season (March/April).

2. Commercial & Hospitality Contractors: With major properties like the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) and Grand Teton National Park hotels, there's steady commercial work. Employers include Teton Electrical & Mechanical, which does large-scale renovations, and St. John's Health for facility maintenance and expansion.

3. Property Management & Renovation Firms: Companies that manage rental properties for second-home owners are always in need of reliable carpenters for turnovers and repairs. Examples include Jackson Hole Real Estate Associates (their property management division) and Village Road Properties. This work is less project-based and more steady, though lower-paying.

4. Local Municipalities & School Districts: The Town of Jackson and Teton County School District #1 have maintenance departments that hire in-house carpenters for repairs and small projects. These are highly sought-after, stable jobs with good benefits but are competitive.

5. Specialty Millwork & Cabinet Shops: Businesses like Jackson Hole Cabinet & Design or Teton Woodworks offer an alternative to rough framing. This is more of a shop-based role, often with year-round work.

Insider Tip: The most reliable way to find work is through word-of-mouth. Join the Teton County Builders Association. Attend their events. A good reputation here is worth more than any resume.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming has a relatively straightforward licensing process, which is a plus for mobile tradespeople.

• State License: Wyoming does not have a state-wide journeyman or master carpenter license. However, you must have a business license if you work for yourself. For employees, most employers require proof of experience or an apprenticeship.
• Specialty Licenses: If you plan to do electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work, you must be licensed through the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety. This is separate from general carpentry.
• Apprenticeship: While not state-mandated, completing a recognized apprenticeship through a union (like the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, Local 339) or a non-union program significantly boosts your employability and earning potential, especially for union-scale jobs on commercial projects.
• Cost & Timeline: The business license fee is nominal ($50-$150 annually). If you're starting a solo business, you'll also need insurance, which can cost $1,500-$3,000/year. If you need to get a contractor's license for work over $25,000 (though rare for a solo carpenter), the process takes 3-6 months.

Actionable Step: Before moving, contact the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety to clarify if your planned projects require any specialty permits. For general carpentry, your skill and portfolio are your main credentials.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Your commute and lifestyle will depend heavily on where you choose to live. Jackson is small, but the valley has distinct areas.

1. Town of Jackson (Downtown & South Park):

   • Commute: 0-10 minutes to most job sites in town.
   • Lifestyle: Walkable, restaurants, nightlife. Best for social life and avoiding a car commute.
   • Rent Estimate: A 1BR apartment can range from $900 - $1,300/month. Very competitive.
   • Verdict: Ideal if you work locally and want to be in the action, but expect to share housing.

2. Wilson (5-10 miles west of Jackson):

   • Commute: 10-20 minutes. Can be slow during peak tourist season.
   • Lifestyle: More residential, quieter, with strong community ties. Has its own small commercial center.
   • Rent Estimate: Slightly higher than Jackson proper; 1BR can be $1,000 - $1,400/month.
   • Verdict: A popular choice for professionals who want a bit more space and a family-friendly environment.

3. Teton Village (Base of the ski resort):

   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to Jackson, but many jobs are at the resort.
   • Lifestyle: Resort-centric, expensive, and very busy during winter. Isolated in the off-season.
   • Rent Estimate: Extremely high. A 1BR can be $1,600 - $2,500+. Often employer-subsidized housing is the only option.
   • Verdict: Best for those with a specific job at the resort. Not practical on a carpenter's salary unless housing is provided.

4. East Jackson & Hoback:

   • Commute: 10-25 minutes. Hoback is further south, past the town line.
   • Lifestyle: More rural, some older housing stock, closer to the Snake River for outdoor access.
   • Rent Estimate: Can be more affordable; 1BR might be found for $800 - $1,100/month.
   • Verdict: Good for those who don't mind a commute and want more of a quiet, valley-living feel.

Insider Tip: The rental market is notoriously tight. Start looking several months before your move. Many rentals are posted on community Facebook groups like "Jackson Hole Rentals" rather than traditional websites.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career path in Jackson can branch in several directions:

• Specialty Premiums: Carpenters with certifications in green building (LEED, Passive House) or historic restoration can command premiums of 10-15% above standard rates. High-end builders are increasingly focused on sustainable, energy-efficient homes.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Journeyman to Foreman: Requires strong project management skills. Pay can jump to $75,000+.
  2. Foreman to Superintendent: Overseeing multiple crews. Often a salaried position, potentially $85,000 - $100,000.
  3. Start Your Own Business: A high-risk, high-reward path. Successful small contractors in Jackson can earn $100,000+, but you'll need to manage marketing, insurance, and client relationships.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 10-year job growth for carpenters in the metro area is projected at 5%. This is modest, aligning with slower population growth. The demand will be for the top tier of skilled tradespeople—those who can work on complex, high-end projects and manage timelines reliably. General rough framing may become more competitive. The trend is toward specialization and quality over quantity.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

This table summarizes the core trade-offs:

Pros	Cons
Stunning Natural Environment: Unparalleled access to skiing, hiking, fishing.	Extremely High Cost of Living (especially housing).
No State Income Tax: A direct boost to take-home pay.	Seasonal Economy: Work can be inconsistent from November to March.
Strong Network of Skilled Tradespeople: Good for collaboration.	Competitive Housing Market: Finding affordable, long-term rental is a challenge.
High-Quality, Rewarding Projects: Building unique, custom homes.	Social & Cultural Isolation: Can feel remote, especially in winter.
Tight-Knit Community: Build a strong local reputation.	Wealth Disparity: Can be socially jarring; you're working for a very affluent clientele.

Final Recommendation:
Move to Jackson if you are a skilled, adaptable carpenter with at least 2 years of experience and a savings cushion of $10,000+ to cover moving costs and living expenses while you find steady work. It's not a place to start your career from zero. Your success will hinge on networking, reliability, and potentially specializing in finish carpentry for the high-end market. If you value mountain lifestyle over homeownership and can handle the seasonal nature of the work, Jackson offers a unique and rewarding career path. If you prioritize financial stability and a predictable housing market, consider looking in Cheyenne or Casper first.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a car in Jackson?
A: Absolutely. Public transportation is limited (the "START" bus system), and job sites are spread out. A reliable vehicle is non-negotiable. Consider an all-wheel-drive vehicle for winter conditions.

Q: How do I find work in the off-season (November-March)?
A: Many local carpenters switch to snow removal, work in retail (ski shops, grocery stores), or take on indoor renovation projects for locals. Some also travel to find work in warmer states. Building a relationship with a year-round employer (like a property management firm or the health district) is the best way to secure steady work.

Q: Is union membership common?
A: Not as common as in larger cities, but there is a local union (Local 339) that covers commercial projects. Union jobs pay better but are project-based. Many residential builders are non-union. It's worth contacting the union hall to see what projects are upcoming.

Q: What's the biggest mistake new carpenters make when moving here?
A: Underestimating the housing hunt and moving without a job or local contacts. The first step isn't packing your tools—it's connecting with the Teton County Builders Association and reaching out to employers before you arrive.

Q: Can I work remotely as a carpenter?
A: No. This is a hands-on trade. However, if you have skills in design, project estimating, or CAD, you could potentially find a hybrid role with a local builder that involves some office work. But the core work is on-site.

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Data sources referenced: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, Zillow Rental Data for Jackson, WY, U.S. Census Bureau Metro Area Population Data, and Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety.