Construction Manager in Tupelo, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Tupelo Ststands

As someone who’s watched this city’s construction scene from the ground up—literally, from the early days of the Toyota plant expansion to the recent hospital renovations—I can tell you that Tupelo offers a solid, if not spectacular, financial picture for Construction Managers. The median salary here is $103,015/year, or about $49.53/hour. That’s below the national average of $108,210/year, but it’s a competitive number for Mississippi and, crucially, paired with a low cost of living.

To understand where you fit in, let’s break it down by experience. These figures are based on local job postings, BLS data for the Northeast Mississippi region, and conversations with hiring managers.

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range (Tupelo)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$65,000 - $82,000	Project coordinator, assistant superintendent, estimating support.
Mid-Level (4-8 years)	$85,000 - $105,000	Managing projects up to $5M, direct supervision of crews, client liaison.
Senior-Level (9-15 years)	$110,000 - $135,000	Overseeing complex commercial/industrial projects, P&L responsibility, training junior staff.
Expert/Executive (15+ years)	$140,000+	Director-level roles, corporate strategy, major client relationships (e.g., with NMMC or the automotive tier-1 suppliers).

How does this stack up against other Mississippi cities? Tupelo is a regional hub. It pays better than smaller towns like Corinth or Greenville, but it can’t quite compete with the scale of Jackson or Biloxi, where larger corporate projects and casino work push salaries higher. However, the 10-year job growth of 8% for the metro area is healthy, outpacing the national average for the field. With only 75 jobs in the metro, the market is tight but growing, primarily in commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors.

Insider Tip: Don’t just look at the base salary. Many Tupelo firms, especially the larger ones like Masonite or regional contractors, offer performance bonuses tied to project completion and safety metrics. A good year can add 5-10% to your total compensation.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s do the math. A salary of $103,015 in Tupelo goes much further than it would in Nashville or Atlanta. Here’s a realistic monthly breakdown for a single person, using Mississippi’s state income tax (which tops out at 5%) and a conservative federal tax estimate.

• Gross Monthly Pay: $8,585
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + State): ~$2,200
• Net Monthly Pay: ~$6,385

Now, factor in living costs. The cost of living index is 84.0, meaning Tupelo is 16% cheaper than the national average. The average 1BR rent is $714/month. Even in nicer areas, you’ll rarely pay over $900 for a quality one-bedroom.

Monthly Budget Snapshot:

• Net Income: $6,385
• Rent (1BR, nice area): $850
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): $200
• Groceries: $400
• Car Payment/Insurance: $500
• Health Insurance: $300
• Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Savings, etc.): $1,500
• Remaining: ~$2,635

This surplus is significant. It allows for aggressive savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending. The real question is homeownership. The median home price in Tupelo is around $180,000-$200,000. With a 20% down payment, a mortgage would be roughly $1,200-$1,350/month. Given the budget above, a Construction Manager earning the median salary can comfortably afford to buy a home in Tupelo within 1-2 years of saving.

Where the Jobs Are: Tupelo's Major Employers

Tupelo’s economy is diverse, anchored by manufacturing, healthcare, and a robust logistics network. Construction managers are needed to build, expand, and maintain this infrastructure. Here are the key players:

1. Masonite: The door manufacturer is a huge local employer. They regularly need construction managers for plant expansions, facility maintenance, and new warehouse projects. This is a steady source of industrial construction work.

2. The North Mississippi Medical Center (NMMC): As one of the largest hospitals in the state, NMMC is in a perpetual state of modernization and expansion. Their projects range from new patient wings to outpatient clinics. Hiring is often through their internal facilities department or via GCs they contract.

3. The City of Tupelo & Lee County: Public works projects are constant. From road improvements (like the recent Barnes Crossing upgrades) to new fire stations and parks, the municipal government is a reliable employer, though the pay band may be slightly lower than private sector.

4. Toyota Mississippi: While not always hiring directly for construction roles, the presence of Toyota and its Tier 1 suppliers (like Faurecia, now Forvia) creates a ripple effect. These companies build and expand their facilities, often hiring local contractors. Being able to speak to automotive manufacturing requirements is a huge plus.

5. Regional Contractors: Firms like Montana Construction (commercial/industrial), J&J Construction (residential/commercial), and Tupelo Concrete & Construction are the backbone of local projects. They are the primary hirers for mid-level managers. Insider tip: The construction community in Tupelo is small. Your reputation matters. Show up to local Building Industry Association (BIA) meetings; everyone knows everyone.

6. Tupelo Public School District: With a growing student population, the district is constantly issuing bonds for new schools and renovations. These projects are large, public, and require experienced CMs to manage.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi does not have a state-level license for Construction Managers specifically. Instead, licensure is handled through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). Most Construction Managers will fall under one of two categories:

• Commercial Contractor License: Required for projects over $10,000. This is the most common path for a CM in Tupelo. It requires proof of experience, financial stability (bonding), and passing an exam.
• Residential Builder License: For single-family home projects. Less common for a typical CM, but relevant if you’re working with smaller developers.

The Process & Costs:

1. Experience: You must document 4-5 years of progressive work experience in construction, which the MSBOC will verify.
2. Financials: You’ll need a surety bond (amount varies by project size, but start with $10,000-$25,000) and proof of liability insurance.
3. Exam: The commercial exam is based on the NASCLA Commercial Contractor Guide and covers topics like project management, safety (OSHA), and Mississippi statutes. Prep courses cost $300-$600.
4. Application Fee: The state fee is $200 for the application and $150 for the license itself.

Timeline: From gathering experience documents to passing the exam and getting your license, expect 3-6 months. Start by visiting the MSBOC website and downloading the application packet. It’s straightforward but requires meticulous paperwork.

Pro Insight: If you’re moving from a state with a reciprocal agreement, the process can be faster. Mississippi has reciprocity with several states, but you’ll still need to apply and pay the fees. Call the MSBOC directly—they’re surprisingly helpful.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live in Tupelo impacts your commute and lifestyle. Traffic is minimal, but project sites are spread out. Here are four areas to consider:

1. Barnes Crossing / The Mill District: This is the commercial and retail heart of Tupelo. You’re close to major employers like Masonite, Toyota, and all the big-box stores. Commutes to industrial projects are minimal. It’s newer, with modern apartments and townhomes.

   • Rent: $800 - $1,000/month for a 1BR/2BR.
   • Best For: The busy professional who wants to be in the action.

2. Historic Downtown Tupelo: Walkable, charming, and full of character. You’re close to the best restaurants, coffee shops, and the iconic Elvis Presley Birthplace. Commute to the city’s west side or industrial park is still under 15 minutes. Older homes, but some new loft developments.

   • Rent: $750 - $950/month for a loft or renovated apartment.
   • Best For: Those who value culture, walkability, and a unique living space.

3. South Tupelo (Near NMMC): Quiet, residential, and family-oriented. This is where many hospital staff live. It’s a short drive to downtown and the industrial areas. The neighborhoods are established, with good schools.

   • Rent: $700 - $850/month for a 1BR or small house.
   • Best For: A quiet, stable home base with an easy commute.

4. Nettleton / Saltillo (Just Outside Tupelo): These are neighboring towns with a lower cost of living and a more rural feel. Commutes are 10-20 minutes to Tupelo’s core. You’ll find more space for your money, including single-family homes with yards.

   • Rent: $600 - $800/month for a house.
   • Best For: Those who want a house with a yard and don’t mind a short commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Tupelo, career growth isn’t about climbing a corporate ladder in a single company; it’s about building a portfolio of complex projects and a sterling reputation.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest salary jumps come from niche expertise. A CM who can navigate industrial construction (automotive, manufacturing) or healthcare facilities (infection control, specialized MEP systems) can command a premium of 10-20% above the median. Public works and school construction also offer stable, long-term project pipelines.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Project Engineer to Assistant Superintendent to Project Manager to Senior Project Manager or Director of Operations. Some branch out to start their own small contracting firm after 10-15 years, which is where the highest earning potential lies (but also carries the most risk).
• 10-Year Outlook (8% Growth): This is positive. Tupelo is a stable hub in a growing region. The aging infrastructure (from bridges to hospitals) guarantees steady repair and upgrade work. The expansion of the automotive sector (via Toyota and its supply chain) is the biggest driver. The key will be adapting to new technologies—Building Information Modeling (BIM) is becoming standard even here, and managers proficient in it will have an edge.

The Verdict: Is Tupelo Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary stretches much further than in major metros.	Limited Market Size: Only 75 jobs in the metro means fewer openings and less variety.
Strong Sense of Community: Networking is easy; people remember your work.	Lower Ceiling: Top-end salaries cap out around $140k+ unless you own the firm.
Diverse Project Pipeline: From healthcare to automotive to public works.	Social/Cultural Scene: It’s a small town. If you crave a big-city arts/music scene, you’ll be driving to Memphis or Nashville.
Manageable Commutes: You can live anywhere and be at most job sites in 10-15 minutes.	Slower Pace: Projects can move at the speed of local bureaucracy and relationships.

Final Recommendation: Tupelo is an excellent choice for Construction Managers who value work-life balance, financial stability, and a community-oriented environment. It’s not the place for someone chasing the absolute highest salary in the field, but it’s a fantastic place to build a long-term career, buy a home, and raise a family without the constant financial pressure of a major metro area. If you’re a mid-career professional looking to put down roots and be a big fish in a smaller, supportive pond, Tupelo deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

1. Do I need to know someone to get a job in Tupelo?
It helps, but it’s not mandatory. The construction community is tight-knit, but reputable firms need qualified managers. Applying to postings from companies like Montana Construction or reaching out to the local chapter of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) is a good start. Your resume and project track record will speak for themselves.

2. How is the job security in Tupelo’s construction market?
It’s generally stable. The mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and public work creates a diversified demand that isn’t overly reliant on a single sector. During economic downturns, public works and healthcare projects often continue, providing a buffer.

3. What’s the biggest challenge for a new Construction Manager in Tupelo?
Adjusting to the pace. Things move on relationships and reputation. Getting a permit or a change order approved might take longer than in a larger city because you’re dealing with the same small pool of officials and vendors repeatedly. Patience and clear, consistent communication are key.

4. Is it worth it to get licensed if I’m moving from out-of-state?
Absolutely. If you plan to work for a general contractor or run your own service, you’ll need the MSBOC license. It legitimizes you and is legally required for many projects. Start the process before you move to avoid a gap in your employment.

5. What’s the best way to network in Tupelo?
Join the Mississippi Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) – Northeast Chapter or the Tupelo Building Industry Association (BIA). Attend their monthly meetings. Also, frequent local spots like Baker’s Drive-In for lunch or Old Venice Pizza Co.—you’ll inevitably run into someone in the industry. It’s a very informal, effective network.