Carpenter in Tulsa, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Tulsa Stands

As a carpenter in Tulsa, you’re looking at a median salary of $55,127/year, which breaks down to a solid $26.5/hour. That’s slightly below the national average of $56,920/year, but it’s crucial to consider Tulsa’s cost of living. While the metro area has 821 carpenter jobs and a projected 10-year job growth of 5%, the real value lies in how far your dollar goes here. The local Cost of Living Index sits at 89.5 (US average = 100), meaning your pay stretches further than in many major cities.

Let’s break down what you can expect based on experience. These ranges are based on regional data adjusted for Tulsa’s market.

Experience Level	Typical Hourly Rate	Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$18 - $22	$37,440 - $45,760	Apprentice tasks, material prep, basic framing, cleanup.
Mid-Level	$23 - $28	$47,840 - $58,240	Finish carpentry, window/door installation, reading blueprints.
Senior	$29 - $35	$60,320 - $72,800	Project leadership, complex custom work, mentoring.
Expert/Specialist	$36+	$74,880+	Historic restoration, high-end custom builds, business owner.

How does Tulsa stack up against other Oklahoma cities?

• Oklahoma City: Median salary is comparable, but the metro is larger (1.5M population) with 1,500+ jobs. Competition can be stiffer.
• Norman: Home to the University of Oklahoma, demand is steady but more focused on residential remodels. Salaries are often within 5% of Tulsa’s.
• Broken Arrow: A booming suburb of Tulsa. Many carpenters live here but commute into Tulsa for work. Wages are similar, but the job market is more residential-focused.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. In Tulsa, many carpenters supplement income with side jobs. The local market for custom decks, built-in shelving, and kitchen remodels is active, especially in affluent suburbs like Bixby and Jenks.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s run the numbers for a mid-career carpenter earning the Tulsa median of $55,127/year. This assumes you’re single, filing as head of household, and taking the standard deduction. (Note: This is an estimate; consult a tax professional for your specific situation.)

• Gross Annual Salary: $55,127
• Estimated Federal & State Taxes: ~$8,500-$9,500 (varies by deductions)
• Estimated Take-Home Pay (Monthly): ~$3,700 - $3,800

Monthly Budget Breakdown

• Average 1BR Rent: $900
• Utilities (Avg.): $150
• Groceries: $350
• Transportation (Fuel/Insurance): $250
• Health Insurance (Employer Plan): $200
• Miscellaneous/Leisure: $300
• Savings/Debt: $1,500+

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. With a take-home pay around $3,750/month and rent at ~$900, you have significant disposable income. The median home price in Tulsa is approximately $220,000. For a 20% down payment ($44,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6% would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of around $1,600. This is well within the recommended 28% of gross income for housing. Many carpenters, after a few years of saving, find homeownership in Tulsa very attainable.

Where the Jobs Are: Tulsa's Major Employers

Tulsa’s construction market is a mix of large commercial firms and numerous custom residential builders. Here’s where the work is:

1. Manhattan Construction: A giant in commercial and industrial building. They handle everything from corporate headquarters to healthcare facilities (like projects for Saint Francis Hospital or Hillcrest). They hire for large-scale projects, offering steady work and benefits. Hiring trends show a focus on healthcare and industrial expansion.
2. Lunday-Thagard: A leading concrete and construction contractor, often involved in Tulsa’s frequent road and infrastructure projects (think the ongoing work on the Broken Arrow Expressway). Great for carpenters with formwork experience.
3. Rogers-O’Brien Construction: A major player in central Oklahoma with a strong Tulsa presence. They specialize in complex projects like the Tulsa Zoo and museum upgrades. They value skilled finish carpenters for interior builds.
4. Clayton Homes (Manufactured Housing): With a large facility in nearby Pryor, Clayton employs many carpenters for home construction in a controlled environment. This is a stable, less weather-dependent option.
5. Local & Regional Residential Builders: Companies like James Homes, Chisholm Creek Custom Homes, and Capstone Custom Homes are consistently building in suburbs like Jenks, Bixby, and South Tulsa. These are your go-to for custom residential work.
6. Historic Preservation Firms: Tulsa has a strong focus on preserving its Art Deco and historic districts (like Brady District and Cherry Street). Firms like St. Louis, Inc. and specialized contractors often seek carpenters for restoration work—a niche that commands premium rates.
7. Tulsa Public Schools: The district has a maintenance and construction department, hiring for remodels and new school builds. Offers great benefits and a stable, unionized environment.

Hiring Trends: Post-pandemic, there’s been a surge in residential remodels and additions. Commercial and infrastructure projects are also steady due to Tulsa’s growth as a medical and energy hub. Finding work is relatively easy if you’re skilled and reliable.

Getting Licensed in OK

For general carpentry, Oklahoma does not require a state-wide license. However, there are critical exceptions and local requirements.

• State-Level: If you plan to work as a contractor (bid on jobs, run your own business), you must obtain a Commercial or Residential Contractor License from the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB). This requires:

  • Passing an exam.
  • Proof of financial stability (bond or credit).
  • Liability insurance.
  • Cost: Exam fee ~$150, plus license bond costs (varies).
  • Timeline: Allow 2-3 months from application to license.

• City of Tulsa Requirements: The City of Tulsa requires a trades license for certain work, including carpentry on projects over a certain value. You’ll need to apply through the City of Tulsa Building Services Department. Fees are modest (under $100), and you may need to submit proof of insurance.

• Permits: All structural work, new builds, and major remodels require permits. The City of Tulsa’s online permit portal is relatively efficient. Expect permit fees to be 1-2% of project cost.

Getting Started: If you’re coming from another state, your experience will be your best credential. Start by joining a local union like the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters (Local 1466) for training, benefits, and job referrals. Or, apply directly to the employers listed above with a strong portfolio.

Best Neighborhoods for Carpenters

Your choice of neighborhood depends on your work location and lifestyle. Commute times in Tulsa are generally short (15-25 minutes cross-town), but living near your job site saves time and fuel.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Why It's Good for Carpenters
Midtown / Brady District	Urban, walkable, historic. Central to downtown job sites.	$950 - $1,200	Proximity to commercial projects and historic restoration work. Great for networking.
South Tulsa / Bixby	Family-friendly, suburban, good schools.	$900 - $1,100	Massive residential and custom home growth. Short commute to high-end build sites.
Brookside / 31st Street	Trendy, mixed-use, near the Arkansas River.	$900 - $1,000	Easy access to midtown commercial work and southside residential. Good for side jobs.
Jenks	Affluent suburb, top-rated schools, quiet.	$950 - $1,300	Extremely high demand for custom homes and remodels. Lower cost of living than Tulsa proper.
Owasso	Northside suburb, growing rapidly, more affordable.	$800 - $950	Close to industrial employers (like Tulsa International Airport area). Less traffic, more available land.

Insider Tip: If you’re starting your own business, living in Jenks or Bixby can be a strategic advantage. You’re closer to the clientele who can afford custom work, and you’ll build a local reputation faster.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Tulsa, career growth for carpenters is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about specialization and entrepreneurship.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Custom Cabinetmaking: +20-30% over base rate. High demand in upscale neighborhoods.
  • Historic Restoration: +25-40%. Requires patience and specific skills (e.g., working with old-growth wood, lime mortar).
  • Concrete Formwork: +15-25%. Steady work with large commercial contractors.
  • Finish Carpentry (High-End): +20-30%. The difference between a good carpenter and a great one is in the finish work.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Master Carpenter: Lead a crew on large projects.
  2. Project Manager: Move into planning, estimating, and client relations (often with a contractor’s license).
  3. Business Owner: Start your own small contracting firm. Tulsa’s low overhead and active market make this feasible. Many successful small businesses start this way.
  4. Educator/Trainer: With experience, you can train apprentices through union programs or community colleges like Tulsa Tech.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 5% job growth is solid and driven by population growth, aging infrastructure, and the ongoing need for new housing. While national trends point toward more prefabrication, Tulsa’s strong residential market and historic character ensure demand for skilled, hands-on carpentry. The key to long-term viability is adapting to new building codes and materials while honing your craft.

The Verdict: Is Tulsa Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living means your $55,127 salary goes far, especially for homeownership.	Extreme weather (tornadoes, ice storms) can halt outdoor work and pose a risk.
Strong, diverse job market in both residential and commercial sectors.	Hot summers (often 100°F+) can be physically demanding on job sites.
Short commute times compared to other major metros.	Limited public transit – you’ll need a reliable vehicle.
Friendly, "big town" feel with genuine community networking.	Wages are slightly below national average, so specialization is key for higher earnings.
Growing city with ongoing infrastructure and healthcare projects.	Cultural amenities are growing but may feel limited compared to coastal cities.

Final Recommendation: Tulsa is an excellent choice for carpenters who are self-motivated, enjoy a mix of urban and suburban environments, and value a high quality of life at a reasonable cost. It’s particularly ideal for those looking to start their own business or specialize in residential custom work. If you’re a carpenter who thrives on stability and community, Tulsa should be at the top of your list.

FAQs

1. Do I need to join the union to find work in Tulsa?
No, it’s not mandatory. The union (Local 1466) offers great benefits, training, and job stability, but many independent contractors and smaller residential builders hire non-union labor. Start by applying to both union and non-union shops to see what fits your style.

2. How is the competition for jobs?
Competition is moderate. The 821 jobs and steady growth mean there’s work, but employers seek reliability and quality craftsmanship. A good portfolio and a clean driving record are huge assets. Specializing (e.g., in finish work or cabinets) makes you stand out.

3. What’s the best way to build a client base for side jobs?
Start with your network—friends, family, coworkers. Join neighborhood Facebook groups (e.g., “Tulsa Homeowners”) and offer small jobs. Many carpenters get started by installing blinds, shelving, or repairing decks. Word-of-mouth in Tulsa is powerful; do good work, and you’ll get referrals.

4. Are there apprenticeships available?
Yes. The Tulsa Tech carpentry program is a top local resource. Also, check with the Oklahoma Home Builders Association and the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters for registered apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

5. How do I handle Tulsa’s tornado season as a carpenter?
Safety first. Always have a weather radio on site. Most commercial sites have strict protocols. For residential work, build a relationship with clients and communicate clearly about weather delays. Many carpenters use downtime for shop work (building cabinets, etc.) or administrative tasks.

Sources: All salary data is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Tulsa, OK metropolitan area. Cost of living and rent data are from local market reports (Zillow, Council for Community & Economic Research). Employer and neighborhood details are based on local industry knowledge and public company information.