Ever wondered if $28/hour is a fair wage for a plumber? You’re not alone. Homeowners want to know they’re paying fairly, while aspiring or working plumbers want to ensure they’re earning what they’re worth. In this article, we break down what it means when “for a recent job a plumber earned $28/h”—and whether that stacks up against industry standards, regional differences, and real-world expenses. Let’s dive into the pipes of plumbing pay.
Is $28/Hour a Good Pay Rate for a Plumber?
The short answer: It depends.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median hourly wage for plumbers in 2024 was $29.53, with top earners making over $50/hour in high-demand areas like California, New York, or Washington. So, $28/hour sits just below the national median—respectable for entry-level or mid-tier plumbers, but potentially low for experienced professionals in urban markets.
Plumbers in rural Kansas may charge $22–$26/hour, while those in San Francisco often bill $45–$65/hour due to higher costs of living and demand. The BLS reports that Alaska, Illinois, and Hawaii consistently rank among the top-paying states for plumbers.
Licensing requirements vary by state, but certified plumbers can legally perform more complex jobs—like gas line installation—which command premium rates.
3. Type of Job
Emergency calls (e.g., burst pipes at 2 a.m.) often include after-hours premiums (1.5x–2x regular rates). In contrast, routine maintenance or scheduled installations may be billed at standard rates.
4. Employment Structure
Self-employed plumbers typically earn more per hour but must cover overhead (insurance, tools, marketing).
Company-employed plumbers receive steady pay but may earn less per job due to employer cuts.
📌 Real-World Example: A plumber in Austin, TX, recently billed a client $28/hour for a 3-hour water heater installation—totaling $84 before parts. Given local averages ($26–$33/hour), this was a standard, fair rate.
How Does $28/Hour Compare Nationally?
Let’s put it in perspective with a quick comparison:
For context, plumbing is part of the broader skilled trades sector, which is experiencing a labor shortage. That’s driving wages upward—making now a great time to enter or advance in the field.
Pros and Cons of Earning $28/Hour as a Plumber
Pros
Cons
✔ Stable demand (everyone needs plumbing!)
✖ Below top-tier earnings in major cities
✔ Opportunities for overtime & emergencies
✖ Physical strain and irregular hours
✔ Path to self-employment
✖ Must invest in tools, van, insurance
✔ No college debt required
✖ Weather- and season-dependent work
If you’re at $28/hour, you’re likely building experience. With certifications and a solid client base, you could easily reach $40+/hour within 2–3 years.
How Plumbers Can Increase Their Hourly Rate
Want to earn more than $28/hour? Follow these actionable steps:
Get Licensed Obtain your journeyman or master plumber license. This legally allows you to take on higher-paying, specialized jobs.
Specialize Focus on niches like commercial plumbing, green plumbing systems, or medical gas installation—these often pay 20–40% more.
Go Independent Start your own business. While riskier, successful solo plumbers often earn $60,000–$100,000+ annually after just a few years.
Optimize Scheduling Use routing apps to minimize drive time and maximize job volume. Even saving 15 minutes per job adds 1–2 extra billable hours weekly.
Upskill Continuously Learn about tankless water heaters, smart plumbing tech, or water efficiency systems—clients pay premiums for modern expertise.
🔧 Pro Tip: Always track your effective hourly rate—total earnings ÷ total hours (including driving, admin, and waiting). Many plumbers think they earn $30/hour but actually make $22 after non-billable time.
Is the Plumbing Industry Growing?
Yes—and fast.
The BLS projects 5% job growth for plumbers from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This equals ~50,000 new jobs—driven by aging infrastructure, new construction, and water conservation needs.
Moreover, the average age of a plumber is 45+, meaning a wave of retirements is coming. Younger workers entering the field now have strong negotiating power for wages and benefits.
Q1: Is $28/hour a livable wage for a plumber in the U.S.?
Yes—$28/hour equals about $58,240/year (full-time, 40 hrs/week). This exceeds the U.S. median household income in many states, especially when overtime or side gigs are included.
Q2: Why do some plumbers charge $100/hour?
Emergency service, specialized skills (e.g., sewer camera diagnostics), or high-cost areas justify premium rates. Also, self-employed plumbers must cover business expenses in their hourly rate.
Q3: How can I verify if a plumber’s rate is fair?
Check local averages via Angi, HomeAdvisor, or your state’s contractor licensing board. Always get 3+ quotes for large jobs.
Q4: Do union plumbers earn more?
Typically, yes. Union plumbers often start at $30–$35/hour plus benefits, but union entry can be competitive and require apprenticeship through programs like UA (United Association).
Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?
Industrial or commercial plumbers working on high-rise buildings, hospitals, or factories often earn the most—especially with master licenses and OSHA certifications.
Q6: Can plumbers make six figures?
Absolutely. Self-employed plumbers in high-demand areas who manage 2–3 jobs/day can easily clear $80,000–$120,000/year after expenses.
Conclusion
So, when you hear “for a recent job a plumber earned $28/h,” it’s not just a number—it’s a snapshot of a dynamic, essential trade. While slightly below the national median, $28/hour represents a solid foundation for growth, especially for those early in their careers or working in moderate-cost regions.
Whether you’re hiring a plumber or becoming one, understanding the true value of plumbing work—beyond the hourly rate—is key. Skilled trades like plumbing offer financial stability, job security, and real-world impact without the burden of student debt.
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Remember: Behind every drop of clean water—and every unclogged drain—is a professional who keeps our world flowing. 💧
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