Carpenter in Kansas City, KS

The Salary Picture: Where Kansas City Stands

As a local, I can tell you that carpentry in Kansas City, KS, isn't about making a fortune, but about building a stable, middle-class life on a foundation that’s stronger than many places. The numbers back this up. Let's get straight to the data. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local industry reports, the median salary for a carpenter in the Kansas City metro area is $55,775/year. This breaks down to a solid hourly rate of $26.81/hour. While this is slightly below the national average of $56,920/year, the cost of living here makes your dollar go further.

The job market is steady, not explosive. There are approximately 299 carpentry jobs in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 5%. This growth is tied to the steady pace of residential and commercial construction, rather than a boom. For a tradesperson, this means consistent work without the volatility of high-growth markets.

Here’s a more detailed look at how experience translates to pay in our local market. These are estimates based on BLS percentiles and local contractor feedback.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$38,000 - $45,000	$18.27 - $21.63
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$50,000 - $65,000	$24.04 - $31.25
Senior	8-15 years	$60,000 - $75,000	$28.85 - $36.06
Expert/Foreman	15+ years	$70,000+	$33.65+

How does Kansas City, KS, compare to other Kansas cities?
It consistently sits in the middle of the pack. You'll find slightly higher wages in the more expensive suburbs of the Kansas City metro (like Overland Park, KS), often by 5-8%. However, those gains are frequently offset by higher rent and property taxes. Wichita, with its larger manufacturing base, sometimes offers competitive wages for industrial carpenters, but the overall cost of living is on par. Topeka can be slightly lower in both wages and cost of living. For a balanced equation of pay versus daily expenses, Kansas City, KS, presents a very compelling case.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be real. Salary numbers are just one part of the story. What matters is what you can afford and how much ends up in your pocket. We’ll use the median salary of $55,775/year for this breakdown.

First, the take-home pay.
For a single filer in 2024, after federal income tax, FICA (7.65%), and a modest 3% state income tax (Kansas has a progressive tax structure, but this is a reasonable average), your net monthly take-home pay will be approximately $3,450. This is an estimate; your actual take-home will depend on your specific tax situation and deductions for health insurance or retirement.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Carpenter Earning $55,775/year:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Take-Home Pay	$3,450	After taxes & FICA
Average 1BR Rent	$1,098	KCK average, per local market data
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$150 - $200	Varies by season; winter heating costs can spike
Groceries	$300 - $400	For one person; savvy shopping helps
Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Maintenance)	$250 - $350	Higher if you have a truck payment for work
Health Insurance	$150 - $400	Varies wildly if employer-sponsored or on exchange
Retirement/ Savings	$200 - $300	Crucial for long-term stability
Discretionary Spending	$450 - $850	Everything else: phone, eating out, entertainment, tools

The Bottom Line: After essential bills, you’re left with a cushion of $450-$850 per month. This is workable, but it requires budgeting. There’s little room for error, like unexpected car repairs or medical bills.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, but with caveats. The median home price in Kansas City, KS, is roughly $210,000 - $230,000. A 20% down payment is $42,000 - $46,000, which takes years to save on this salary. However, many first-time homebuyer programs exist, including FHA loans (3.5% down) and Kansas-specific programs. With a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) likely around $1,200-$1,400 per month for a starter home, it’s comparable to current rent. The challenge is the down payment. An insider tip: Many local unions and trade associations have down payment assistance programs for members. It's worth asking around job sites.

Where the Jobs Are: Kansas City's Major Employers

The hiring scene here is a mix of large commercial contractors, established residential firms, and specialized shops. The work is steady, especially in the suburbs of Kansas City, KS, and the broader metro area where growth is pushing new construction.

1. McCownGordon Construction: A major player in commercial construction. They handle everything from hospitals to corporate HQs. They’re a common stop for skilled carpenters looking for large-scale, complex projects. They often post jobs directly on their website and use local trade schools for recruitment.
2. J.E. Dunn Construction Group: Another national contractor with a massive local footprint. Their Kansas City office works on high-profile projects like the new Children’s Mercy Hospital expansions and downtown renovations. They value experience and often hire through union channels (UBC Local 133).
3. Brasfield & Gorrie: This firm has been growing its presence in the KC metro, particularly in healthcare and commercial development. They’re known for a strong safety culture and prefer hiring carpenters with formal apprenticeship training.
4. Sutherland’s (Residential & Custom): For a shift to high-end residential and custom work, Sutherland’s is a well-regarded name. They focus on luxury homes and remodels in affluent suburbs like Leawood and Prairie Village. This is where you can really showcase finish carpentry skills for higher pay.
5. Hutton Construction: A local favorite for commercial and retail projects across the metro. They have a reputation for treating their crews well and provide steady work. They’re a great mid-size firm where a carpenter can build long-term relationships.
6. Local Union (UBC Local 133): The United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 133 is a major source of employment. They have a dashboard of open jobs for their members. Working union often means better benefits (healthcare, pension), prevailing wage rates on public projects, and a structured career path. Insider Tip: Even if you're not union, attending a Local 133 open house can give you insight into the market and potential sponsorship for apprenticeship.
7. Evergy (Utility Work): While not a traditional carpentry role, Evergy (the local power company) hires carpenters for maintenance and construction of substations and infrastructure. These are stable, union jobs with great benefits, often found on their careers page.

Hiring Trends: There’s a noticeable uptick in green building and energy-efficient construction. Carpenters with experience in advanced framing techniques or installing solar-ready structures are becoming more valuable. The healthcare sector (hospitals like University of Kansas Health System and Children's Mercy) is a consistent source of commercial work, as is the expansion of data centers in the region, which require precise, high-spec carpentry.

Getting Licensed in KS

Kansas takes a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to certification. Unlike some states, you don't need a state-level journeyman license to work as a carpenter for a licensed contractor. However, there are specific pathways and requirements, especially if you want to advance or run your own business.

• Journeyman Certification: While not required by state law, it’s highly recommended and often required by employers for skilled positions. The Kansas State Licensing Board for Contractors oversees this. You’ll typically need to complete a state-approved apprenticeship program (4-5 years, 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction). The cost is largely covered by the apprenticeship program (which may be sponsored by a union or contractor association), but you may have exam fees. The timeline is 4-5 years to become a journeyman.
• Contractor’s License: If you plan to work for yourself or run a small crew, you’ll need a Residential or Commercial Contractor’s License. This requires passing an exam, providing proof of financial stability, and having a surety bond. Costs vary but can start around $500 - $1,000 for the application and exam. This is not a step to take lightly; it's a business commitment.
• Insider Tip: The most common path is to join the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 133 apprenticeship program or a non-union program through a contractor association. This gives you structured training, a clear path to journeyman wages, and often access to the best jobs. Don't just show up asking for work; show up asking about their apprenticeship program.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Where you live affects your commute, your social life, and your wallet. Here’s a local’s guide to neighborhoods within Kansas City, KS, and the immediate metro.

1. The Westside (KCK):

   • Vibe: Historic, working-class, with a growing arts and food scene. Close to downtown Kansas City, MO, and the Crossroads Arts District.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most job sites in KCK and downtown. Bikeable.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR apartment or small house.
   • For You: Ideal if you want to be in the heart of the city and don't want a long commute. Parking can be tight, but the community is strong.

2. Rosedale & Strawberry Hill (KCK):

   • Vibe: Densely populated, diverse, with great views of the city. Strong community feel.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to most job sites. Easy access to I-35 and I-70.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR.
   • For You: Good value and a unique character. You'll find a lot of tradespeople living in these areas.

3. Lenexa (Suburban - in Johnson County, KS):

   • Vibe: Family-friendly, suburban, with excellent parks and schools. Where many contractors and foremen live.
   • Commute: 20-35 minutes to job sites in KCK, but often 10-15 minutes to Lenexa-specific jobs (like new subdivisions).
   • Rent Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500/month for a 1BR/2BR apartment.
   • For You: If you're looking to start a family or want more space, this is a top choice. The commute can be a bit longer if you're working on the north side of the metro.

4. Kansas City, MO - North Kansas City & Westport:

   • Note: While not in Kansas City, KS, many carpenters live just across the state line. The commute is often 15-25 minutes and can be worth it for the lifestyle.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,400/month for a 1BR in these areas.
   • For You: If you want the nightlife and amenities of the larger metro, living in KCMO is a strong option. The job market is essentially the same.

5. Basehor & Shawnee (Suburban - West of KCK):

   • Vibe: More rural, spacious, lower density. Growing rapidly.
   • Commute: 25-40 minutes to jobs in KCK, but you may find work closer to home in new developments.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,300/month for a 1BR or small rental house.
   • For You: If you want a quieter life with a small yard, this is your spot. Just be prepared for a longer and potentially more expensive commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Carpentry in Kansas City isn't a dead-end job; it's a career with clear advancement paths if you're strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: Your base wage is just the start. Specializing can add $5 to $10+ per hour to your rate.

  • Finish Carpentry (Millwork, Cabinetry): High demand in custom homes and commercial interiors. Precision is key.
  • Concrete Formwork: Common in commercial and infrastructure projects. Requires strength and knowledge of complex systems.
  • Green Building (LEED, Passive House): Still a niche but growing. Carpenters who understand energy-efficient building envelopes are in early demand.
  • Restoration & Historic Preservation: Kansas City has a wealth of historic buildings. This requires patience and traditional skills, but commands premium rates.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Journeyman to Foreman: This is the most common path. It involves leadership, scheduling, and safety management. Pay increases accordingly.
  2. Foreman to Superintendent: Managing multiple crews and large projects. Requires deep technical and people skills.
  3. Self-Employment: The ultimate goal for many. Starting a small, reputable company (kitchens, remodels, custom builds) can be lucrative but carries business risks.
  4. Estimator/Project Manager: A more office-based role. Requires strong math skills and knowledge of construction processes.

• 10-Year Outlook (Beyond the 5% Growth): The 5% growth rate is conservative. The real opportunity lies in retooling. The workforce is aging. Young carpenters who embrace technology (like CAD for layout, or project management software) and specialize in sustainable practices will find themselves in high demand. The influx of new data centers and healthcare projects will provide steady commercial work, while the chronic shortage of quality finish carpenters will keep that specialty lucrative. The key is to never stop learning—whether through union training, employer-sponsored courses, or self-study.

The Verdict: Is Kansas City Right for You?

This is a practical city for a practical trade. It won't dazzle you with glamour, but it offers a solid foundation for a life in the trades. Here’s the honest breakdown.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $55,775 median salary goes much further here than in coastal cities.	Wages Below National Average: You’ll earn less than the national median, even when adjusted for cost of living.
Steady, Stable Job Market: The 299 jobs and 5% growth mean consistent work without the boom-bust cycles.	Limited High-End Luxury Market: Fewer ultra-high-end residential projects compared to places like Austin or Denver.
Strong Trade Networks: Unions and contractor associations provide a clear path to training and advancement.	Weather Challenges: Winters are cold and can disrupt schedules; summers are hot and humid.
Central Location: Easy access to both coasts via I-70, and a major airport for travel.	Car Reliant: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is a must for commuting to job sites.
Short Commutes: Living in KCK means you can get to most jobs in 15-25 minutes, saving time and gas.	State Tax Burden: Kansas state income tax can be a noticeable slice of your paycheck.

Final Recommendation:
Kansas City, KS, is an excellent choice for a carpenter seeking stability and a solid middle-class lifestyle. It's ideal for someone early in their career (entry to mid-level) who values a clear apprenticeship path, manageable commutes, and an affordable home. It’s also a great spot for a foreman or skilled specialist looking to buy their first home without being house-poor.

If your primary goal is to maximize your annual salary above all else, you might look to coastal hubs. But if you’re building a life—considering homeownership, family, and a sustainable career trajectory—Kansas City offers a compelling, data-backed case. The key is to get licensed, specialize, and budget wisely. The work is here, the community is strong, and the foundation is solid.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be in the union to get a good job in Kansas City?
A: No. Many excellent non-union contractors pay competitively, especially for specialized work like finish carpentry. However, being in the union (UBC Local 133) provides structured training, a pension, and often easier access to large public works projects with prevailing wages. It's a personal choice based on your career goals.

Q: What's the best way to find a job as a carpenter in KCK?
A: Start with the unions and large