Carpenter in Plano, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Plano Stands

As a local who’s watched the Dallas metro’s construction boom for two decades, I can tell you straight: Plano offers a solid, stable market for carpenters, though it’s not the highest-paying city in the region. The median salary here sits at $57,483/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $27.64/hour. This is just a hair above the national average for carpenters, which is $56,920/year. The real story, however, is in the demand. The metro area has 576 jobs for carpenters, and a 10-year job growth of 5%. That’s not explosive growth, but it’s steady, reliable work in a city that’s constantly building and renovating.

Let’s break down what that salary looks like by experience level. These are estimates based on local job postings and my conversations with contractors in West Plano and East Frisco.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities in Plano
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 - $48,000	Framing, basic trim work, assisting journeymen. Often starts with production home builders.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$52,000 - $65,000	Independent framing, finish carpentry, window/door installation. Can lead small crews.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$65,000 - $80,000+	Project management, custom millwork, complex renovations (especially in older Plano neighborhoods).
Expert/Lead (15+ years)	$75,000 - $95,000+	Business owner, master craftsman, specialist in luxury finishes. Often works on high-end homes in areas like Willow Bend.

How does Plano stack up against other major Texas cities for carpenters?

City	Median Salary	Notes
Plano	$57,483	Steady market, strong residential and commercial sectors.
Austin	~$59,500	Higher demand and cost of living, but more competitive.
Houston	~$56,800	Similar pay, but more tied to the oil/gas cycle.
Dallas	~$58,200	Similar markets, but Plano is often more desirable for families.
Fort Worth	~$55,900	Slightly lower pay, but lower cost of living.

Insider Tip: The $57,483 median is a great baseline. The real money in Plano is made by those who specialize in finish carpentry for the custom home market or who move into project management. The 5% job growth isn't flashy, but in a stable market like Plano, it means consistent contract work if you're good.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be real about the numbers. A median salary of $57,483 breaks down to about $4,790/month gross. After federal taxes, FICA (7.65%), and Texas’s no-state-income-tax, your take-home pay is roughly $3,600 - $3,800/month. This depends on your filing status and deductions.

Now, the biggest fixed cost: rent. The average 1BR rent in Plano is $1,291/month. Let’s build a sample monthly budget for a single carpenter earning the median salary.

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Income (After Tax)	$3,700	Based on median salary
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,291	The biggest chunk of your budget.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$200	Varies by season; summers in Plano are brutal.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$600	Necessary; public transit is limited.
Groceries & Household	$400
Health Insurance	$300	If not provided by employer.
Savings/Retirement	$400	10% is a good goal.
Discretionary	$509	Eating out, hobbies, tools, etc.
TOTAL	$3,700

Can a Carpenter earning the median afford to buy a home in Plano? The short answer: It's challenging but possible with discipline. The median home price in Plano hovers around $450,000. A 20% down payment ($90,000) is a massive hurdle on a $57,483 salary. Most first-time homebuyers use FHA loans (3.5% down, ~$15,750) but face higher monthly payments and mortgage insurance. With a $57,483 income, you'd likely be looking at homes in the $300k-$350k range, which means looking at condos or older homes in areas like East Plano (75074) or nearby suburbs like Murphy or Wylie. Budgeting for that $400/month savings is critical. It would take about 7 years to save $30,000 for a 10% down payment at that rate. It’s tough, but not impossible if you have a partner with income or move into a higher pay bracket.

Where the Jobs Are: Plano's Major Employers

Plano’s construction market is a mix of huge production builders and high-end custom firms. The jobs are here, but you need to know where to look.

1. David Weekley Homes: A national giant with a massive presence in Plano’s western communities (like Willow Bend and Lakeside on Preston). They’re always hiring framers and finish carpenters for their spec homes. They offer benefits and steady work, but the pace can be fast.
2. Highland Homes: Another major Texas builder with a strong footprint in Plano and Collin County. They focus on mid-to-high-end production homes. Look for jobs in neighborhoods like Whiffletree and Willow Park. They often hire through established subcontractors.
3. Paul Taylor Custom Homes: A premier custom home builder based in Dallas with many projects in Plano’s older, well-established neighborhoods (like Old Plano East). This is where a skilled finish carpenter with an eye for detail can make $70,000+. They’re selective but offer the best craft-focused work.
4. Goff’s Heating & Air (and more): While known for HVAC, Goff’s and similar large trade contractors (like local electricians and plumbers) often have their own carpentry divisions or need carpenters for framing, ductwork chases, and remodels. They’re a great source of off-season work.
5. Satterfield & Associates (and similar design-build firms): These architectural and design-build firms contract with top-tier carpenters for major renovations and additions in luxury neighborhoods. Networking here is key—get your work seen by architects and designers.
6. Local Home Depot/Lowes Pro Desks: Not an employer for a journeyman, but a vital hub for networking with local contractors, buying supplies, and picking up side jobs. The Pro desk at the Plano Parkway Home Depot is a local hiring ground.
7. Renovation & Remodeling Companies: Firms like Plano Remodeling or Legacy Design & Build have a constant need for skilled carpenters for kitchen/bath updates, room additions, and whole-home renovations. This is where you can build a portfolio of diverse work.

Hiring Trend: The residential market is strong, especially in the $500k-$1.5M range. There’s a slight slowdown in the very high-end ($2M+), but high-quality finish carpenters are still in demand. Commercial work is steady, focused on office build-outs in the Legacy West area and retail spaces along the Dallas North Tollway.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas does not have a statewide license for general carpenters. This is a major advantage for entry, but it means your reputation is your license. However, for specific work, you’ll need certifications.

• General Carpentry: No state license required. Your proof of work is your portfolio and references.
• Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC: If you want to offer these services, you must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). This is a separate, rigorous process.
• General Contractor License: If you plan to manage projects over $10,000, you need a Texas Residential Contractor License (for residential) or a Commercial Contractor License. This requires proof of experience, passing an exam, and insurance.
  • Cost: Exam fees are ~$150, bond and insurance can range from $2,000-$5,000+ annually.
  • Timeline: It can take 3-6 months to gather documents, study for the exam, and get approved.

Pro-Tip: Start as an apprentice or journeyman with a licensed firm. Many will sponsor you for your contractor’s license after a few years of proven project management experience. This is the most common path in Plano.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Where you live affects your commute to job sites, which are scattered across the metro.

• East Plano (75074): Rent: $1,100 - $1,400 (1BR). This is the most affordable area with older stock and constant renovations. Commute to job sites in West Plano is 20-30 minutes via US-75 or 15-20 minutes via President George Bush Tollway (PGBT). Great for saving money.
• West Plano (75093/75024): Rent: $1,400 - $1,800 (1BR). You’re in the heart of the new construction and luxury remodeling zones. Commute is minimal if you work nearby, but you’ll pay a premium. The convenience is worth it for many.
• Old East Plano / Downtown Plano: Rent: $1,300 - $1,600 (1BR). Historic charm, walkable, and close to the DART rail line (a huge plus if you work in Dallas). Older homes mean renovation work, and you’re near the lively downtown scene. A 15-minute commute to most Plano job sites.
• Murphy (adjacent to Plano): Rent: $1,200 - $1,500 (1BR). A quiet suburb with a strong sense of community. Commute to Plano is 10-20 minutes. More residential feel, less traffic than west Plano. A good compromise for a family.
• West Frisco (adjacent to Plano): Rent: $1,500 - $1,900 (1BR). The epicenter of new construction. If you’re a framer for a production builder, living here minimizes your commute to zero. However, it’s the most expensive option and traffic is severe during rush hour on the tollways.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The carpentry industry in Plano isn’t just about swinging a hammer; it’s about moving up.

• Specialty Premiums: General framing pays the base. Finish carpentry (cabinetry, intricate trim, built-ins) can add $5-$10/hour. Project Management (running crews, ordering materials, client interaction) can push you to a $70,000 - $85,000 salary. Business Ownership is the ultimate goal, where your income is tied to your company’s profits.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Framer -> Finish Carpenter -> Crew Lead -> Project Superintendent -> Project Manager.
  2. Journeyman -> Specialist (e.g., in high-end windows/doors) -> Owner/Operator of a niche company.
• 10-Year Outlook (5% Growth): The growth is steady, not explosive. Automation (like CNC machines for custom millwork) will change the landscape, but it won’t replace the skilled carpenter on a job site in Plano’s custom home market. The demand for green building techniques (energy-efficient framing, sustainable materials) is growing. Carpenters who learn these skills will be ahead of the curve. The biggest opportunity is in the aging housing stock in East Plano—there will be a constant need for remodels and additions for the next decade.

The Verdict: Is Plano Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable, Steady Demand: The 5% growth and 576 job openings mean less volatility than oil towns.	High Cost of Living: Rent is $1,291/month, and home prices are steep. Your $57,483 salary goes less far here than in, say, Fort Worth.
Diverse Work: From production framing to luxury custom finishes, you can build a varied portfolio.	Traffic & Commutes: The Dallas North Tollway and US-75 are infamous. A bad commute can eat your day.
No State Income Tax: Maximizes your take-home pay from your $27.64/hour rate.	Competitive Market: You’re up against skilled tradespeople from across the metro. Quality and networking are essential.
Great for Family Life: Excellent schools, parks, and a safe environment.	Limited Public Transit: You need a reliable vehicle, which is a major expense.
Proximity to Dallas: Easy access to a larger market for side jobs or specialized training.	Summers are Brutal: Working outside from June to September is physically demanding.

Final Recommendation: Plano is an excellent choice for a mid-to-senior level carpenter (or an ambitious entry-level worker) who values stability and quality of life. It’s less ideal for someone looking to get rich quick or who needs a very low cost of living to start. If you can handle the rent, network aggressively, and specialize in a high-demand niche (like finish work or project management), Plano offers a rewarding and sustainable career path. Come in with a plan, a reliable truck, and a strong work ethic, and you’ll find your footing.

FAQs

1. Do I need my own tools to get hired in Plano?
Yes, absolutely. For entry-level, you’ll need basic hand tools and a power saw. For mid-level and above, you’re expected to have a full set of professional-grade tools, including a cordless drill/driver combo, miter saw, nail gun, and a reliable work truck or van. Employers rarely provide tools for carpenters.

2. How do I find side jobs in Plano?
The best way is through word-of-mouth. Join local Facebook groups like “Plano, TX Handyman & Small Jobs” and “Collin County Contractors.” The Pro desks at Home Depot and Lowe’s are also great places to meet homeowners and contractors looking for help. Always get a written agreement and check insurance requirements.

3. Is it worth getting a General Contractor’s license in Texas?
If you want to manage whole projects, take on larger jobs (over $10,000), and eventually run your own company, it is essential. It gives you credibility, allows you to pull permits, and opens up higher-paying work. If you’re happy being a skilled journeyman for a builder, you may not need it.

4. What’s the biggest challenge for a new carpenter in Plano?
Breaking into the network. Plano’s construction scene is relationship-driven. Working for a production builder is a great start, but to move into custom homes, you need to get your work seen by the right people. Take on small side jobs, document your work beautifully, and ask for referrals. Your reputation will spread faster than any resume.

5. How does the cost of living in Plano compare to Dallas?
Plano is slightly more expensive than the Dallas average, but often more affordable than upscale Dallas neighborhoods like Uptown or Lakewood. The trade-off is Plano offers more space, better schools, and a more family-friendly environment. For a single carpenter, the financial difference is manageable if you budget carefully.

Data sources referenced: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), Zillow and Apartments.com for rent data, and local job posting analysis from Indeed and ZipRecruiter.