Thinking about becoming a plumber—or just curious how much plumbers really make in the U.S.? You’re not alone. With rising demand for skilled trades and stable career paths, many Americans are turning to plumbing as a reliable, well-paying profession. In this guide, we’ll break down the average salary of a plumber in the US, explore what affects earnings, and show you how to maximize your income in this essential trade.
How Much Does a Plumber Make on Average in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090 as of May 2023. That translates to about $28.89 per hour.
But here’s the key: “average” doesn’t tell the whole story. Your actual earnings depend on experience, location, specialization, and whether you work for a company or run your own business.
💡 Pro Tip: Plumbers in metropolitan areas or states with high costs of living (like California or New York) often earn significantly more—but keep in mind that expenses may offset some of that income.
Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?
Location plays a huge role in your paycheck. The BLS reports that the top-paying states for plumbers in 2023 were:
Illinois – $89,700
Alaska – $87,590
Massachusetts – $85,100
New Jersey – $84,370
Hawaii – $83,920
Conversely, states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and South Dakota tend to offer lower wages, often below $50,000 annually.
🌎 Why the difference? High-demand areas, union presence, cost of living, and local regulations all influence pay. For example, Chicago and Boston have strong plumbing unions that negotiate higher wages and better benefits.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings?
Beyond geography, several variables affect your income:
Certification & Licensing: Licensed plumbers earn 15–25% more than unlicensed peers. Specialized certifications (e.g., in gas fitting or backflow prevention) can boost rates further.
Employment Type:
Company-employed plumbers get steady hours and benefits but capped earnings.
Self-employed or business owners can charge premium rates—especially for emergency or after-hours calls—but handle overhead costs.
Overtime & Emergency Calls: Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half for weekends, nights, or holidays. A single emergency job can pay $150–$300+ per hour.
Industry: Plumbers in nonresidential building construction or industrial settings often earn more than those in residential repair.
How to Increase Your Plumbing Income (Step-by-Step)
Want to move from “average” to “top-tier” earnings? Follow this roadmap:
Get Licensed: Every state requires a plumbing license to work independently. Start with an apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years), then pass your journeyman exam.
Specialize: Learn high-demand niches like:
Green plumbing (water-efficient systems)
Medical gas installation
Commercial plumbing
Build a Personal Brand: Create a simple website, claim your Google Business Profile, and collect customer reviews. A strong online presence can increase job inquiries by 40%+.
Offer Emergency Services: Charge a premium for 24/7 availability—many homeowners will pay $200+ just for a same-day leak fix.
Upskill with Tech: Learn to use diagnostic tools like video pipe inspection cameras. Tech-savvy plumbers command higher trust—and rates.
✅ Real Example: Marcus T., a master plumber in Austin, Texas, doubled his income in 3 years by adding trenchless sewer repair to his services—a niche that charges $3,000–$8,000 per job.
Plumbing Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades
How does plumbing stack up against similar careers? Here’s a quick comparison (2023 BLS data):
Plumber
$60,090
Electrician
$60,240
HVAC Technician
$51,390
Carpenter
$51,350
Welder
$47,540
Plumbing consistently ranks among the highest-paying skilled trades, especially when you factor in long-term job security and low student debt (most plumbers train via paid apprenticeships, not college loans).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do plumbers really make six figures? A: Yes—especially in high-cost states or if you own your business. Top 10% of plumbers earn over $100,000 annually, with some master plumbers in cities like San Francisco or Seattle clearing $130,000+.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber? A: Typically 4 to 5 years through a registered apprenticeship program, which includes 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and classroom instruction per year.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in 2025? A: Absolutely. The BLS projects 5% job growth from 2022 to 2032—faster than average—due to aging infrastructure, new construction, and retiring workers. Plus, it’s recession-resistant; people always need running water and working toilets!
Q: Can I start plumbing without a degree? A: Yes! No college degree is required. Most plumbers start with a high school diploma or GED, then join an apprenticeship. Many programs even pay you while you learn.
Q: What’s the difference between a journeyman and a master plumber? A: A journeyman can work independently under a master’s license. A master plumber has passed an advanced exam, can pull permits, run a business, and supervise others. Masters typically earn 20–30% more.
Q: Are plumbing salaries going up? A: Yes. Wages have risen ~4% annually over the past five years due to labor shortages and increased demand for skilled tradespeople.
Conclusion
The average salary of a plumber in the US is solid—but with the right strategy, you can far exceed it. Whether you’re considering this career or already in the field, plumbing offers financial stability, low entry barriers, and real opportunities for growth.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone exploring a trade career—they’ll thank you later! 💧🔧
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