Thinking about a career in plumbing—or just curious what plumbers actually earn? You’re not alone. Many people assume plumbing is “just a trade job,” but the reality is far more lucrative. How much can a plumber make a year depends on experience, location, specialization, and even business ownership—but the numbers might surprise you. Whether you’re exploring career options or weighing a career change, this guide breaks down real earnings, backed by data and industry insights.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2024, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090. But that’s just the midpoint—many earn significantly more.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 10th percentile: ~$37,000
- 25th percentile: ~$47,000
- Median (50th percentile): $60,090
- 75th percentile: ~$78,000
- 90th percentile: $100,000+
Top earners—especially those running their own businesses or specializing in commercial or industrial plumbing—can clear $120,000 or more annually.
💡 Fun fact: In Alaska and Illinois, experienced plumbers often exceed $90,000/year due to high demand and cost-of-living adjustments.
For more context on skilled trades, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing as a profession.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Annual Income?
Your paycheck as a plumber isn’t just about turning wrenches—it’s shaped by several key variables:
1. Geographic Location
Plumbers in urban centers or high-cost states typically earn more. The top-paying states (BLS 2024 data):
| Illinois | $89,200 |
| Alaska | $87,500 |
| Massachusetts | $85,100 |
| New York | $83,400 |
| Hawaii | $82,700 |
Rural areas may offer lower hourly rates but often have lower living costs—and less competition.
2. Years of Experience
- Apprentice (0–4 years): $18–$25/hour
- Journeyman (4–8 years): $25–$40/hour
- Master Plumber (8+ years): $40–$75+/hour
Certification as a Master Plumber can increase your hourly rate by 30–50%.
3. Type of Employer
- Residential plumbing companies: Steady hours, moderate pay
- Commercial/industrial firms: Higher complexity = higher pay
- Self-employed: Highest earning potential—but requires business skills
4. Specializations
Plumbers with niche skills command premium rates:
- Medical gas piping
- Green plumbing (water-efficient systems)
- Pipe welding
- Drain camera inspection & trenchless repair
These certifications often add $10–$20/hour to base rates.
Can Plumbers Really Make $100K a Year?
Yes—absolutely. But it usually requires one or more of the following:
✅ Owning a plumbing business
Many solo plumbers who manage their own clients, scheduling, and marketing pull in $80K–$150K/year after expenses.
✅ Working overtime or emergency calls
Emergency plumbing jobs (nights, weekends, holidays) often pay 1.5x–2x the standard rate. A plumber doing just two emergency calls/week at $150/hour can add $15,000–$20,000/year.
✅ Operating in high-demand areas
In cities like Chicago, Boston, or Seattle, licensed plumbers with strong reputations easily surpass six figures—especially if they offer same-day service or specialize in renovations.
📊 Case Study: Marcus T., a master plumber in Chicago, reported $112,000 in 2024—$70K from regular contracts, $25K from emergency calls, and $17K from consulting on new construction projects.
Apprentice vs. Journeyman vs. Master: Salary Progression
| Apprentice | $18–$25 | $37,000–$52,000 | 4–5 years of training + exams |
| Journeyman | $25–$40 | $52,000–$83,000 | Licensed, works independently |
| Master | $40–$75+ | $83,000–$150,000+ | Advanced license, can supervise others |
Most apprentices start at 60–70% of journeyman pay while learning on the job—often with paid training through unions or trade schools.
Advantages and Challenges of a Plumbing Career
✅ Pros
- High demand: The BLS projects 2% job growth (2024–2034)—faster than average for all occupations.
- No student debt: Trade schools cost $1,000–$15,000, vs. $30K+ for a 4-year degree.
- Job security: Pipes break in recessions too.
- Entrepreneurial path: Easy to start a small business with minimal overhead.
❌ Cons
- Physically demanding: Crawling under houses, lifting heavy materials.
- Unpredictable hours: Emergency calls at 2 a.m. are real.
- Licensing requirements: Vary by state—some require 8+ years to become a master.
Still, 87% of plumbers report job satisfaction (TradeMutt Survey, 2023), citing autonomy and financial stability.
How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income (5 Proven Steps)
- Get licensed in multiple states – Especially in regions with labor shortages (e.g., Texas, Florida).
- Add certifications – EPA refrigerant handling, backflow prevention, or solar water heating can open new revenue streams.
- Offer 24/7 emergency service – Charge premium rates; market it heavily on Google Business.
- Build an online presence – A simple website + Google Reviews can double your client calls.
- Hire helpers once profitable – Scale from solo to small team; keep 30–50% of total revenue as owner profit.
🛠️ Example: After adding camera inspection services (cost: $3,500 for equipment), plumber Lena K. increased her average job value by $180—boosting annual income by $22,000.
FAQ Section
Q: Do plumbers make more than electricians?
A: It’s close. In 2024, electricians earned a median of $61,500, slightly above plumbers ($60,090). But top-tier plumbers in commercial or emergency roles often out-earn electricians.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
A: Typically 4–5 years—including a 2,000-hour annual apprenticeship and passing state exams. Some states allow faster tracks for veterans or military-trained individuals.
Q: Can you make six figures as a plumber without owning a business?
A: Yes—especially in union roles, government contracts, or industrial settings (e.g., refineries, hospitals). Union journeymen in NYC or San Francisco regularly earn $90K–$110K with overtime.
Q: Is plumbing a dying trade?
A: Quite the opposite. The average plumber is 55+, and 150,000+ will retire by 2030. The U.S. already faces a 40,000-plumber shortage (PHCC, 2024).
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?
A: Offshore oil rig plumbers and nuclear facility pipefitters can earn $130,000–$180,000/year, but require extreme certifications and travel.
Q: Do plumbers get benefits?
A: Union and corporate-employed plumbers often receive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Self-employed plumbers must secure their own—but can deduct costs as business expenses.
Conclusion
So, how much can a plumber make a year? Anywhere from $37,000 to over $150,000—with the right mix of skill, location, and hustle. Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks; it’s a stable, scalable, and surprisingly lucrative career with room for growth at every level.
If you’re considering this path, start with an apprenticeship, get licensed, and never stop learning. The pipes aren’t going anywhere—and neither is the demand for skilled professionals.
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