Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in Colonial Heights, VA (2025 Guide)

Thinking about becoming a plumber in Colonial Heights, VA—or hiring one for your home? Either way, knowing the average hourly wage for a plumber in Colonial Heights, VA is crucial. Whether you’re evaluating career options or budgeting for a project, accurate, up-to-date pay data helps you make smarter decisions. We’ve compiled 2025 figures, local insights, and expert perspectives to give you a clear picture of what plumbers earn in this growing Virginia community.

What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in Colonial Heights, VA?

As of Q1 2025, the average hourly wage for a plumber in Colonial Heights, VA ranges from $28 to $38 per hour, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job platforms like ZipRecruiter and Glassdoor. Entry-level plumbers typically start around $25/hour, while experienced or licensed master plumbers can command $45/hour or more, especially for emergency or specialty services.

For context, this aligns closely with Virginia’s statewide average of $32.15/hour for plumbers, but slightly exceeds the national average of $30.92/hour, reflecting Colonial Heights’ proximity to Richmond and strong demand for skilled trades.

💡 Fun Fact: Plumbing is one of the few professions where hands-on experience often translates directly into higher hourly rates—certifications and licenses amplify that value significantly.

How Does Colonial Heights Compare to Nearby Cities?

Wages can vary even within a short drive. Here’s how Colonial Heights stacks up against neighboring areas:

Plumbers in Colonial Heights benefit from being part of the Greater Richmond metro area, which means access to higher-paying jobs in the city without the full urban cost of living.

What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Rate in Colonial Heights?

Not all plumbers earn the same—and that’s by design. Here’s what affects pay:

1. Licensing Level
   • Journeyman plumbers (licensed after 4–5 years of apprenticeship) earn 20–30% more than apprentices.
   • Master plumbers can set their own rates and often run small businesses.
2. Type of Work
   • Residential jobs: $28–$35/hour
   • Commercial/industrial: $35–$50/hour
   • Emergency calls (nights/weekends): Often 1.5x to 2x standard rate
3. Employer Type
   • Independent contractors typically earn more per hour but cover their own insurance and tools.
   • Company-employed plumbers may receive benefits (health insurance, retirement) that offset lower hourly pay.
4. Seasonal Demand
   Winter pipe freezes and summer remodels can spike demand—and rates—by 10–15% during peak months.

For deeper insight into licensing tiers, see Plumber licensing in the U.S. on Wikipedia.

How to Earn Above the Average as a Plumber in Colonial Heights

Want to break into the $40+/hour range? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship
Virginia requires a 4-year apprenticeship (576 hours of classroom + 4,000+ hours on-the-job training) to become a journeyman.

Step 2: Get Licensed by DPOR
Apply through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). The journeyman exam costs $95, and passing it boosts credibility—and pay.

Step 3: Specialize
Add certifications in:

• Backflow prevention ($500–$800 course, +$5–$10/hour premium)
• Gas line installation (requires additional state endorsement)
• Green plumbing (water-efficient systems)

Step 4: Build a Local Reputation
Positive reviews on Google, Angi, or HomeAdvisor can justify 10–20% higher rates. Colonial Heights is a tight-knit community—word of mouth matters.

Step 5: Track Expenses & Raise Rates Annually
Most successful independent plumbers in the area raise rates by 3–5% yearly to match inflation and experience growth.

Pros and Cons of Being a Plumber in Colonial Heights

Despite the challenges, 87% of Virginia plumbers report high job satisfaction, citing autonomy and tangible results as key motivators (Source: 2024 Virginia Construction Workforce Survey).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do plumbers in Colonial Heights get paid overtime?
Yes—if employed by a company, they’re entitled to 1.5x regular pay for hours over 40/week under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Self-employed plumbers set their own terms.

Q2: What’s the starting wage for an apprentice plumber?
Most apprentices in Colonial Heights start at $16–$20/hour, with incremental raises every 6–12 months as they gain skills.

Q3: Are plumbing wages in Colonial Heights expected to rise in 2025–2026?
Yes. With Virginia’s construction sector growing at 4.2% annually (Virginia Employment Commission), plumber wages are projected to increase 3–5% by end of 2026.

Q4: Can a plumber make six figures in Colonial Heights?
Absolutely. A master plumber working 45 hours/week at $45/hour earns $105,300/year before bonuses or side jobs. Many exceed this with small business ownership.

Q5: How do union vs. non-union wages compare?
Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 77 in Richmond) often start higher ($30–$35/hour) but have union dues (typically 2–3% of pay). Non-union plumbers have more flexibility but must negotiate benefits independently.

Q6: What’s the best way to verify a plumber’s license in Virginia?
Use the DPOR’s License Lookup Tool—enter the plumber’s name or license number for real-time verification.

Conclusion

Understanding the average hourly wage for a plumber in Colonial Heights, VA isn’t just about numbers—it’s about opportunity. Whether you’re launching a career, considering a trade switch, or planning a home project, this data empowers you to act confidently. With strong local demand, clear career progression, and above-average earning potential, plumbing remains one of the smartest skilled trades in the region.

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Stay informed, stay skilled—and keep those pipes flowing.