How Many Plumbing Companies Are in the US? (2025 Data)

If you’re a homeowner dealing with a leaky faucet—or an entrepreneur eyeing the trades—you’ve probably wondered: how many plumbing companies are in the US? It’s more than just a number. Understanding the scale of this essential industry reveals opportunities, competition, and reliability for consumers. In this guide, we break down the latest verified data, trends, and what it means for you.

How Many Plumbing Companies Exist in the US in 2025?

As of 2025, the United States is home to approximately 120,000–130,000 active plumbing businesses, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and IBISWorld Industry Reports. This includes:

• Sole proprietorships (one-person operations)
• Small local firms (2–10 employees)
• Regional and national chains (e.g., Roto-Rooter, Mr. Rooter)
• Full-service contractors offering plumbing as part of broader services

The plumbing industry remains highly fragmented, with over 90% of companies employing fewer than 10 people. This means most Americans rely on local, independent plumbers rather than big-box brands.

💡 Fun Fact: The plumbing sector is part of the broader “Building Equipment Contractors” category (NAICS code 238220), which also includes HVAC and electrical work—but plumbing alone accounts for nearly $130 billion in annual revenue (IBISWorld, 2024).

Why Does the Number of Plumbing Companies Matter?

You might think: “Why should I care how many plumbers are out there?” Here’s why it impacts you:

• For homeowners: More companies = more competition = better pricing and service options.
• For job seekers: A large, growing industry means steady employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
• For investors: The home services sector is booming, with plumbing consistently ranking among the most in-demand skilled trades.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% growth in plumber employment through 2032—faster than the national average—driven by aging infrastructure, new construction, and water efficiency upgrades.

Where Are Most Plumbing Companies Located?

Geographic distribution isn’t uniform. States with larger populations, older housing stock, and frequent weather-related plumbing issues lead the pack:

Urban areas like Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago host the highest concentrations—but rural regions often face shortages, leading to longer wait times and higher service fees.

Are Plumbing Companies Growing or Declining?

Growing—steadily and sustainably.

Despite economic fluctuations, plumbing is a recession-resilient industry. People always need running water, functional drains, and safe gas lines. Key growth drivers include:

• Aging infrastructure: Much of America’s plumbing dates back to the 1950s–70s.
• Climate change: Increased flooding and pipe bursts from extreme weather.
• Labor shortages: Fewer young people entering the trades = high demand for existing pros.
• Smart home integration: Modern plumbers now handle leak-detection systems and tankless water heaters.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s County Business Patterns , new plumbing businesses have increased 3.2% annually since 2020.

How to Verify a Plumbing Company’s Legitimacy

With so many options, how do you pick a trustworthy plumber? Follow these 5 verification steps:

1. Check Licensing: Most states require plumbers to be licensed (e.g., CSLB in California). Verify via your state’s contractor board.
2. Read Reviews: Focus on Google, BBB, and Angi—not just star ratings, but recent detailed feedback.
3. Ask for Insurance Proof: Legit companies carry general liability and workers’ comp insurance.
4. Get a Written Estimate: Avoid verbal quotes. A professional provides a clear, itemized breakdown.
5. Confirm Physical Address: Scammers often operate from PO boxes or virtual offices.

⚠️ Red Flag: If a plumber demands full payment upfront or refuses to show ID—walk away.

Industry Challenges Facing US Plumbing Companies

Despite strong demand, plumbers face real hurdles:

• Labor Shortage: The average plumber is 55 years old, and too few apprentices are entering the field.
• Rising Material Costs: Copper, PVC, and water heaters have seen 15–25% price hikes since 2022.
• Regulatory Complexity: Local codes vary widely (e.g., backflow preventer rules in Florida vs. Oregon).
• Digital Competition: Platforms like HomeAdvisor and Thumbtack charge high referral fees, squeezing small businesses.

Yet, innovative companies are adapting—offering subscription maintenance plans, same-day emergency service, and eco-friendly retrofits to stand out.

FAQ: Common Questions About US Plumbing Companies

Q1: Is the plumbing industry saturated in the US?

A: Not overall—but locally, yes in major metros. Smaller towns and suburbs still have room for skilled, customer-focused plumbers. Differentiation (e.g., 24/7 service, financing, green plumbing) is key.

Q2: How many plumbers are self-employed?

A: Roughly 60% of plumbing professionals work for businesses with fewer than 5 employees, and many are independent contractors or sole owners (BLS, 2024).

Q3: What’s the average revenue for a US plumbing company?

A: Small firms average $300,000–$700,000/year. Larger operations with 20+ employees can exceed $5 million annually—especially those offering emergency and commercial services.

Q4: Are plumbing companies required to be licensed in every state?

A: 44 states require state-level plumbing licenses. Exceptions include Kansas, Missouri, and Wyoming—which leave licensing to counties or cities. Always verify local rules.

Q5: How has technology changed the plumbing business?

A: Plumbers now use pipe inspection cameras, AI scheduling tools, contactless payments, and CRM software—making service faster, cleaner, and more transparent.

Q6: Can I start a plumbing business with no experience?

A: Legally, no—in most states, you need a journeyman or master plumber license, which requires 2–5 years of apprenticeship. However, you can start a plumbing franchise as an owner-operator without hands-on skills (e.g., Mr. Rooter).

Conclusion: Why This Number Matters to You

Knowing how many plumbing companies are in the US isn’t just trivia—it’s practical intelligence. Whether you’re hiring help, launching a business, or planning a career shift, this $130 billion industry offers stability, demand, and growth like few others.

Plumbing isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential. And with 120,000+ companies competing to serve you, you hold the power to choose quality, value, and trust.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend, homeowner group, or future plumber on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter! 💧🔧

Data sources: U.S. Census Bureau, IBISWorld (2024), Bureau of Labor Statistics, NAICS Association.