The Ultimate Guide to Oilfield Housing & Man Camps

One of the biggest questions new drivers have when looking at oilfield jobs is: "Where am I going to sleep?" In remote areas like Pecos, Texas, or Williston, North Dakota, finding a hotel is nearly impossible and renting an apartment can cost more than a mortgage in the city.

Understanding the different types of housing is crucial to knowing how much money you'll actually take home. Let's break down the three main options you'll encounter.

1. Company Man Camps

A "Man Camp" is essentially a modular housing complex. Think of it like a dorm for adults. Most modern camps are quite nice—you'll usually get a private room with a bed, TV, and desk, though you might share a bathroom with one other person. The best part? They usually include all-you-can-eat meals. This can save you $500-$800 a month in food costs alone.

2. Per Diem & Housing Allowances

Some companies don't provide a bed, but they give you extra money to find your own. This is called "Per Diem." For example, you might get $50 a day for housing. If you have your own RV or can split a trailer with a few buddies, you can often pocket a good chunk of this money as tax-free income.

3. Rotational Housing

If you're on a 2/1 or 3/1 rotation (weeks on/weeks off), the company might provide housing only while you're on the clock. When your hitch is over, you head home, and someone else takes your bed. This is the most common setup for out-of-state drivers.