How Much an Hour Does a Plumber Make? (2025 Salary Guide)

If you’ve ever wondered, “How much an hour does a plumber make?”—you’re not alone. Whether you’re considering a career in plumbing, hiring a pro for a home repair, or just curious about skilled trades, understanding plumbing wages helps you make better decisions. In this guide, we break down real-world hourly rates based on location, experience, and job type—so you get clear, actionable insights.

What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2024, the median hourly wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $29.85 per hour. That translates to roughly $62,000 annually for full-time work (based on 2,080 hours per year).

But this is just the midpoint. Actual earnings can vary significantly:

• 10th percentile: $17.50/hour
• 25th percentile: $22.30/hour
• 75th percentile: $36.10/hour
• 90th percentile: $49.60+/hour

These differences reflect factors like geography, certification level, union membership, and whether the plumber is self-employed or works for a company.

💡 Pro Tip: Self-employed plumbers often charge $75–$150/hour to clients—but after expenses (insurance, tools, vehicle, taxes), their take-home hourly rate may align more closely with BLS data.

What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Rate?

Not all plumbers earn the same—and for good reason. Here’s what impacts plumbing wages:

1. Experience Level

• Apprentice (0–4 years): $15–$22/hour
• Journeyman (4–8 years): $25–$38/hour
• Master Plumber (8+ years, licensed): $35–$60+/hour

Becoming a master plumber typically requires passing a state exam and often brings authority to run your own business or supervise teams.

2. Geographic Location

Plumbers in high-cost or high-demand states earn more:

Urban areas (e.g., Chicago, Seattle, Boston) usually offer higher pay than rural regions due to cost of living and service demand.

3. Type of Employer

• Residential plumbing companies: $25–$35/hour
• Commercial/industrial firms: $30–$45/hour
• Union plumbers: Often 15–25% higher than non-union
• Self-employed: Higher billing rates but variable income

4. Emergency or Overtime Work

Many plumbers charge 1.5x to 2x their standard rate for nights, weekends, or holidays. A $30/hour plumber might bill $60–$90/hour for an emergency pipe burst at 2 a.m.

How Do Plumbers Compare to Other Skilled Trades?

Plumbing remains one of the most lucrative skilled trades—often outpacing electricians, HVAC techs, and carpenters in median earnings.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

And unlike many office jobs, plumbing offers strong job security, low automation risk, and clear advancement paths—all without requiring a 4-year college degree.

Can You Make Six Figures as a Plumber?

Yes—absolutely. While the average plumber earns around $62,000, top earners regularly exceed $100,000/year.

Here’s how:

• Specialize: Work in high-demand niches like medical gas piping, solar water heating, or commercial high-rises.
• Go independent: Build a local brand with strong online reviews and efficient scheduling.
• Offer 24/7 emergency services: Charge premium rates for urgent calls.
• Hire a team: Once licensed as a master plumber, you can manage multiple techs and scale your business.

📌 Real Example: A plumbing contractor in Denver reported $135,000 in net profit in 2024 by focusing on bathroom remodels and water heater installations—charging $95/hour with a 90% client retention rate.

How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income: 4 Actionable Steps

If you’re entering or already in the trade, follow this roadmap:

1. Complete a formal apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years) through a union or trade school. This builds credibility and qualifies you for journeyman licensing.
2. Get licensed in multiple states if you’re near borders (e.g., Tennessee + Georgia). More licenses = more job opportunities.
3. Invest in digital marketing: A simple website with SEO-optimized content like “emergency plumber near me” can bring in $3,000+ in new jobs monthly.
4. Upsell preventative maintenance: Offer annual plumbing inspections for $99–$149. Recurring revenue stabilizes income.

⚠️ Note: Always carry liability insurance and comply with local codes—reputation is everything in this business.

Plumbing vs. College Degrees: Is Trade School Worth It?

Many assume a college degree is the only path to financial stability. But consider this:

• Plumbing school cost: $1,000–$15,000 (often paid during apprenticeship)
• Average student loan debt: $37,000+
• Time to full earnings: 1–2 years (vs. 4+ years for a degree)

According to Forbes, skilled trades like plumbing offer faster ROI, lower debt, and higher job satisfaction—especially for hands-on learners.

And with a national shortage of 100,000+ plumbers expected by 2030 (per Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association ), demand will only rise.

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries

Q1: Do plumbers really make more than teachers or nurses?
A: In many states, yes. The median plumber ($62,000) earns more than the median elementary school teacher ($61,350) and slightly less than a registered nurse ($81,200)—but with far less education debt and time investment.

Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make per hour?
A: Typically $15–$22/hour, with pay increases every 6–12 months as skills improve. Most apprenticeships also include paid classroom instruction.

Q3: Are plumbing wages increasing?
A: Yes. BLS projects 5% job growth (2022–2032)—faster than average—driven by infrastructure upgrades, new construction, and retiring workers. Wages have risen 3.2% annually over the past 5 years.

Q4: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?
A: Industrial plumbers working in oil refineries, power plants, or chemical facilities often earn $50–$70/hour due to hazardous conditions and specialized certifications.

Q5: Do female plumbers earn the same as male plumbers?
A: Legally, yes—but representation is low (only ~2% of plumbers are women). However, certified female plumbers report equal or higher client trust in residential settings, leading to strong earnings.

Q6: How much should I charge if I start my own plumbing business?
A: Start with $75–$100/hour in most markets. Include a service call fee ($50–$100) that’s waived if the client hires you for the repair. Always itemize labor and materials.

Conclusion

So, how much an hour does a plumber make? The answer ranges from $17 to $70+, depending on skill, location, and business model—but the median sits near $30/hour, with serious upside for those who specialize or go independent.

Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks—it’s a stable, scalable, and surprisingly lucrative career with low entry barriers and high demand. Whether you’re exploring trades or hiring a pro, now you know exactly what to expect.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with someone considering a trade career—or tag a plumber who deserves a raise! 💧🔧

Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), PHCC, National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER).