Carpenter in Rogers, AR

The Salary Picture: Where Rogers Stands

As a local who’s watched Rogers evolve from a quiet town into a bustling hub of Northwest Arkansas, I can tell you the carpentry trade here isn’t just busy—it’s foundational. With the metro population at 74,047 and a steady influx of new housing and commercial projects, carpenters are in consistent demand. The median salary for a carpenter in Rogers is $55,383/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.63/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $56,920/year, but the key here is the local context. The cost of living index at 91.0 (US avg = 100) means your dollar stretches further than it would in most other places. With 148 jobs currently listed in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 5%, the market is stable, if not explosive. It’s a reliable trade in a region that’s always building.

Here’s how pay typically breaks down by experience level in the Rogers area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$40,000 - $48,000	$19.23 - $23.08
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$55,383 (Median)	$26.63
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$65,000 - $75,000	$31.25 - $36.06
Expert/Lead (15+ yrs)	$78,000+	$37.50+

When compared to other Arkansas cities, Rogers sits in a sweet spot. While Little Rock has a slightly higher median salary (around $58,000), the cost of living there is also higher. Fayetteville, our neighbor to the south, has a similar cost of living but a more competitive market due to the university. Bentonville, with its corporate wealth, often leads in high-end custom work, but Rogers offers a balanced middle ground with strong residential and commercial growth.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. If you’re earning the median salary of $55,383 in Rogers, your monthly take-home pay after federal and state taxes (assuming single filing, standard deduction, and including FICA) will be approximately $3,550 to $3,700. This is a conservative estimate, as Arkansas has a graduated income tax.

Now, let’s factor in rent. The average 1BR rent in Rogers is $924/month. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a mid-level carpenter:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$924	Varies by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	$180	Higher in summer for AC
Groceries	$350	Average for a single person
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Essential; public transit is limited
Fuel	$120	Commutes can be 15-20 mins
Health Insurance	$200	If not fully employer-covered
Tools & Maintenance	$100	Non-negotiable for a pro
Savings/Retirement	$300	401k or IRA contribution
Remaining	$926	For dining, entertainment, etc.

Can you afford to buy a home? Yes, but with a plan. The median home price in Rogers is around $275,000. With a 10% down payment ($27,500), a 30-year mortgage at current rates (~6.5%) would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,850. This is a stretch on a single income of $55,383, as it would exceed the recommended 30% of gross income. However, many local carpenters purchase homes after building equity, often with a partner’s income, or after moving into a senior role. It’s achievable, but not immediate.

Where the Jobs Are: Rogers's Major Employers

Rogers isn’t dominated by one industry, which is good for carpenters. The job market is diversified across residential, commercial, and niche markets. From my experience, here’s where the work is:

1. Pinnacle Construction: A major player in NWA commercial construction, often working on retail, medical, and institutional projects. They hire for both large-scale framing and finish carpentry. Hiring trends show a steady need for experienced lead carpenters for project management roles.
2. The Jones Company: A premier local homebuilder known for quality custom homes in areas like Pinnacle Country Club. They are a go-to for high-end residential framing, cabinetry, and finish work. They rarely post publicly; most hires come from word-of-mouth and local trade networks.
3. Rogers Public Schools: The district has a full-time maintenance and construction crew. This is a coveted, stable position with great benefits, focusing on repairs, renovations, and new builds for schools. They post openings on the Rogers School District website.
4. Mercy Medical Center (Rogers): As part of the massive Mercy health system, their facilities team handles constant updates, remodels, and specialized medical facility carpentry (e.g., nurse stations, millwork). These jobs offer stability and a different pace than residential framing.
5. Local Design-Build Firms: Companies like Carr House Construction or Bachman’s Custom Builders focus on high-end renovations and custom homes. They often seek carpenters with a keen eye for detail and problem-solving. In my opinion, this is where the most satisfying, creative work is found.
6. General Contractors (GCs): The backbone of the market. Firms like Brasfield & Gorrie (with a local presence) or Weitman Construction hire subs and employees for larger commercial jobs. They’re the first to call when a new shopping center or apartment complex is planned.
7. Self-Employment: A significant portion of local carpenters run their own small businesses. The low cost of living makes it easier to take the risk, and the growing population ensures a steady stream of homeowners needing repairs, decks, and remodels.

Insider Tip: The best jobs in Rogers are often not advertised. Get your name in with the local Northwest Arkansas Home Builders Association (NAHB). Attend their events. The handshake here is still the most powerful application.

Getting Licensed in AR

Arkansas does not require a state-level journeyman carpenter license. However, to work legally and bid on projects, you must have an Arkansas Contractor’s License if you are performing work over a certain value.

• Residential Builder License: Required for projects over $2,000. You must pass an exam, provide proof of financial stability, and carry liability insurance. The exam fee is around $200, and the license fee is $200 every two years.
• Commercial Contractor License: Required for commercial projects over $50,000. This is a more complex process with a higher exam fee ($300).
• Timeline: Studying for and passing the exam can take 1-3 months. Processing the license application can take an additional 4-6 weeks. Total time from start to holding your license: 4-6 months.
• Costs: Budget $500-$800 for exam prep, fees, and initial bonding/insurance quotes.

Pro Insight: If you’re coming from another state, Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with several states (like Louisiana and Tennessee). Check with the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board for specifics. For most journeyman-level employees, you don’t need your own license, but having one instantly boosts your pay and opportunities.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Your commute and lifestyle matter. Here’s a local’s guide to neighborhoods, balancing commute to job sites, lifestyle, and rent.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Downtown Rogers	Walkable, historic, trendy. 5-10 min commute to most central job sites.	$1,050	Younger pros who want nightlife, cafes, and a short walk to work.
Eastside (Hwy 62)	Affordable, family-friendly. 10-20 min commute to major employers (Mercy, schools).	$850	Those prioritizing budget and space. Older homes mean repair work is constant.
Pinnacle Hills	Upscale, modern, corporate. 15-25 min commute to most sites.	$1,150	Senior carpenters with higher incomes; proximity to corporate jobs (Walmart HQ is nearby).
Lindsey Road Area	Suburban, growing fast. 15-20 min commute. Mix of new apartments and single-family homes.	$900	A balanced choice for those wanting modern amenities without downtown prices.
Cave Springs	Rural, spacious, quiet. 20-30 min commute to Rogers.	$800	Carpenters who own a truck, need a workshop, and prefer a country setting.

Personal Note: If you’re starting out, Eastside offers the best balance of low rent and high demand for renovation work. The older housing stock there is a goldmine for a skilled carpenter.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Rogers, career growth for carpenters is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about specializing and building a reputation.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Finish Carpentry & Cabinetry: This is where the money is. Custom builds and high-end remodels can push your rate to $35-$45/hour or more, especially if you have a portfolio.
  • Commercial Framing: Larger projects pay well due to scale and deadlines. Leads on these jobs can earn $70,000+.
  • Historic Restoration: With Rogers’ historic downtown, specialists in period-accurate woodwork are rare and highly valued.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Journeyman to Lead Carpenter: Gain experience, get your contractor’s license, and take on project management.
  2. Employee to Business Owner: Many start with a LLC, take small jobs, and grow. The low overhead in Rogers makes this feasible.
  3. Niche to Consultant: Specialize in something like timber framing or eco-friendly building, and consult on projects.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is solid. The key driver is the continued expansion of NWA. As long as Walmart, Tyson, and JB Hunt keep growing, their employees and retirees will keep building homes and businesses. The trend toward custom, “forever homes” in the area benefits skilled finish carpenters most.

The Verdict: Is Rogers Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living (91.0 index) lets your salary go further.	Job growth is steady, not explosive. Don’t expect a Silicon Valley-style boom.
Diverse job market across residential and commercial.	Summers are hot and humid, which can be tough on outdoor work.
Strong community with a network of tradespeople.	The “good ol’ boy” network can be a barrier to entry without local connections.
Great quality of life with trails, lakes, and culture.	Limited public transit; you must own a reliable vehicle.
Proximity to Bentonville/Fayetteville offers more job options.	Rapid growth can lead to inflated housing costs in the future.

Final Recommendation: Rogers is an excellent choice for a carpenter who values stability, a lower cost of living, and a good quality of life. It’s not the place for get-rich-quick ambitions, but it’s a fantastic place to build a solid career, a family, and a home. If you’re a self-starter who isn’t afraid of a handshake and a day’s hard work, you’ll thrive here.

FAQs

1. Do I need my own tools and truck to get hired?
Yes, absolutely. A reliable truck is non-negotiable for hauling materials and tools. Most companies expect you to have a basic set of hand and power tools. For specialized work (cabinetry), the employer may provide larger stationary tools, but you’ll start with your own kit.

2. How competitive is the job market for a newcomer?
It’s competitive but not closed off. Your best bet is to arrive with a solid portfolio (even if from another state), reach out to smaller GCs and design-build firms directly, and join local trade associations. Showing you understand local building styles (like the popular "farmhouse modern" look) is a big plus.

3. What’s the worst part about being a carpenter in Northwest Arkansas?
The weather. The humidity in July and August can make outdoor framing grueling. Winters are mild but can be wet and muddy. You need to be prepared for all four seasons.

4. Is there a lot of union work in Rogers?
No, the carpentry trade in Rogers and NWA is largely non-union. You’ll work for private contractors, home builders, or as a self-employed business. This aligns with the region’s business-friendly environment.

5. What’s the first thing I should do after moving to Rogers?
Go to the Northwest Arkansas Builders Association (NAHBA) website and see if they have a mixer or event. Go, introduce yourself, and hand out cards. In this town, who you know will get you your next job faster than any online application. Also, drive through the new subdivisions under construction and note the company signs—then follow up.