If your sink’s gurgling at 2 a.m. or your basement’s flooding after a snowmelt, you need a plumber—fast. But before you call the first name that pops up online, you’re probably wondering: What’s the average rate per hour for a plumber in North Dakota? You’re not alone. Homeowners across Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks want transparent, fair pricing without surprise bills. In this guide, we break down real hourly rates, what influences them, and how to get quality service without overpaying.
What Is the Average Hourly Rate for a Plumber in North Dakota in 2025?
As of 2025, the average rate per hour for a plumber in North Dakota ranges from $65 to $110, with most professionals charging around $85–$95/hour for standard residential work.
This aligns with national trends but is slightly lower than the U.S. average of $90–$120/hour, reflecting North Dakota’s lower cost of living and housing market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), plumbers in North Dakota earned a median annual wage of $58,420 in 2024—translating to roughly $28/hour—but this figure includes apprentices and part-time workers. Licensed, experienced plumbers typically earn significantly more when working independently or for established firms.
💡 Pro Tip: Emergency calls, weekends, or holiday service can increase rates by 25%–50%.
What Factors Affect Plumbing Hourly Rates in North Dakota?
Your final bill isn’t just about the clock—it’s shaped by several variables:
1. Location Within the State
Urban areas like Fargo and Bismarck often charge more due to higher demand and operational costs. In rural counties (e.g., Bowman or Divide), rates may be lower, but you might pay a travel fee ($25–$60) if the plumber drives over 30 miles.
2. Type of Service
- Basic repairs (leaky faucet, clogged drain): $65–$90/hour
- Installation (water heater, new piping): $85–$110/hour
- Emergency service (burst pipe, sewage backup): $100–$150/hour
3. Plumber’s Experience & Licensing
North Dakota requires plumbers to be licensed through the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. Journeyman plumbers typically charge less than master plumbers, who can handle complex commercial or code-compliance work.
4. Time of Day & Season
Winters in North Dakota are harsh—frozen pipes are common from November to March. Demand spikes during cold snaps, sometimes leading to temporary rate increases or longer wait times.
How Do North Dakota Plumbing Rates Compare to Neighboring States?
To give you context, here’s a quick comparison of average hourly plumbing rates in 2025:
| State | Avg. Hourly Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $65 – $110 | Lower demand, rural service areas |
| Minnesota | $80 – $130 | Higher urban density (e.g., Minneapolis) |
| Montana | $70 – $115 | Similar rural challenges |
| South Dakota | $60 – $100 | Slightly lower than ND |
| National Avg. | $90 – $120 | Source: HomeAdvisor, Angi 2024 data |
Note: Rates include labor only; materials are billed separately.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Many homeowners are surprised by extra charges. Always ask about:
- Diagnostic fees ($50–$100)—sometimes waived if you hire the plumber for the repair.
- Minimum service charges (e.g., 1–2 hours, even for a 30-minute job).
- After-hours premiums (commonly 1.5x standard rate).
- Material markups (plumbers often add 10–20% to parts).
✅ Best Practice: Request a written estimate before work begins. Reputable plumbers in North Dakota will provide one.
How to Hire a Reliable (and Fairly Priced) Plumber in North Dakota
Follow these 5 steps to avoid scams and overcharges:
- Verify Licensing
Check the plumber’s license status via the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. Unlicensed work voids home insurance in many cases. - Read Recent Reviews
Focus on Google Reviews and BBB ratings. Look for consistent mentions of punctuality, clean workspaces, and transparent pricing. - Get 2–3 Quotes
Compare not just price, but scope of work. One plumber might include pipe inspection; another might charge extra. - Ask About Warranties
Most reputable plumbers offer 90-day labor warranties—some up to 1 year. - Confirm Insurance
Ensure they carry liability and workers’ comp insurance. If a worker gets hurt on your property and isn’t insured, you could be liable.
For general info on plumbing as a skilled trade, see Plumber – Wikipedia.
When Is It Worth Paying More?
Not all plumbing jobs are equal. Consider paying a premium if:
- You need code-compliant work for a home addition or renovation.
- The job involves gas lines or sewer systems (high-risk, requires master license).
- You’re dealing with recurring issues—a thorough diagnostic may save money long-term.
Sometimes, the cheapest option leads to repeated repairs. Investing in a skilled plumber can prevent future damage (e.g., water leaks behind walls causing mold).
FAQ: Average Rate Per Hour for a Plumber in North Dakota
Q1: Do plumbers in North Dakota charge by the hour or per job?
Most charge by the hour for repairs and diagnostics. Larger projects (e.g., bathroom remodels) are often quoted as flat-rate jobs to give you cost certainty.
Q2: Is there a difference between residential and commercial plumbing rates?
Yes. Commercial plumbing in North Dakota typically costs 15–30% more per hour due to complex systems, stricter codes, and after-hours work in businesses.
Q3: Can I negotiate plumbing rates?
Sometimes. If you’re bundling multiple services (e.g., fixing a leak + installing a new disposal), ask for a discount. However, never haggle on emergency or safety-related work—quality matters most.
Q4: Are plumbing rates higher in winter?
Yes, especially during deep freezes. Burst pipes and frozen lines create surges in demand. Some companies implement seasonal pricing from December to February.
Q5: What’s included in the hourly rate?
Labor only. You’ll pay extra for parts (pipes, fixtures, water heaters), permits (if required), and disposal fees for old materials.
Q6: How long does a typical plumbing repair take?
Simple fixes (dripping faucet, clogged toilet) take 30–90 minutes. Complex issues (re-piping, water heater replacement) may take 4–8 hours or more.
Conclusion
Knowing the average rate per hour for a plumber in North Dakota empowers you to make smart, stress-free decisions—whether you’re fixing a leak or planning a full bathroom upgrade. With typical rates between $65 and $110/hour, always prioritize licensed, insured professionals over the cheapest bid. Remember: great plumbing isn’t just about stopping a drip—it’s about protecting your home’s value and your family’s safety.
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