Thinking about becoming a plumber—or already in the trade and wondering if you’re earning your full potential? You’re not alone. Many people ask, “How much can I make as a plumber?”—especially when weighing career options that offer job security, hands-on work, and strong income without a four-year degree. The good news? Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks—it’s a lucrative, in-demand profession with serious earning power. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect to earn, what factors influence your income, and how to climb the pay ladder faster.
What Is the Average Salary for a Plumber in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 data, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $60,090. But that’s just the middle point—with experience, specialization, and smart business decisions, many plumbers earn $80,000 to $100,000+ per year.
Here’s a quick snapshot:
Apprentice
$35,000 – $45,000
Journeyman
$50,000 – $70,000
Master Plumber
$70,000 – $100,000+
Self-Employed
$80,000 – $150,000+*
* Self-employed plumbers often earn more—but income varies based on location, client base, and overhead costs.
Geography plays a huge role. Plumbers in high-cost, high-demand states like Alaska, Illinois, or New York often earn significantly more than the national average.
Top 5 Highest-Paying States for Plumbers (2024 BLS Data):
Alaska: $90,580
Illinois: $87,120
Massachusetts: $84,370
New Jersey: $83,940
Washington: $82,620
Why? Urban centers, strict building codes, aging infrastructure, and seasonal demand (e.g., frozen pipes in winter) drive up both need and pay.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re mobile or considering relocation, targeting metro areas like Chicago, Seattle, or Boston can boost your income by 20–40%.
What Factors Increase a Plumber’s Income?
Beyond location and experience, these key factors can significantly raise your earnings:
Certifications: Holding a Master Plumber license or certifications in green plumbing, gas fitting, or backflow prevention adds credibility—and billable rates.
Specialization: Commercial plumbing, medical gas systems, or industrial pipefitting often pay 15–30% more than residential work.
Overtime & Emergency Calls: Many plumbers charge 1.5x to 3x their standard rate for nights, weekends, or holidays.
Self-Employment: Running your own business lets you keep more profit—but requires marketing, accounting, and customer service skills.
Real-World Example: Jake, a master plumber in Denver, started solo after 8 years at a firm. By offering 24/7 emergency service and specializing in tankless water heaters, he now averages $125,000/year—up from $68,000 as an employee.
Apprentice vs. Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: Pay Comparison
Your career stage directly impacts income. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Apprentice (0–4 years):
Paid while you learn (typically 40–50% of journeyman wages).
Earn $15–$22/hour on average.
Must complete 4–5 years of classroom + on-the-job training.
Journeyman (Licensed):
Can work independently under a master plumber.
Average: $25–$35/hour ($52,000–$73,000/year).
Master Plumber:
Can pull permits, design systems, and run a business.
Hourly rates: $45–$100+ depending on region and service.
✅ Key Insight: Each licensing step unlocks higher-paying opportunities—and often leads to 20–50% income jumps.
Can You Really Make Six Figures as a Plumber?
Yes—absolutely. While not every plumber hits six figures, it’s very achievable with the right strategy:
Work overtime: 10–15 extra hours/week at $75/hour = +$39,000/year.
Start a small business: Charge $85–$125/hour for service calls + flat-rate jobs.
Diversify services: Add drain cleaning, water filtration, or bathroom remodeling.
Build recurring revenue: Offer maintenance contracts ($50–$150/month per client).
A 2023 survey by HomeAdvisor found that 32% of self-employed plumbers reported annual incomes over $100,000—especially those with strong online reviews and efficient scheduling.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career (Income Perspective)
High demand (13% job growth by 2031, per BLS)
Physical labor; risk of injury
No student debt (vs. college degrees)
Income can be seasonal or inconsistent early on
Clear path to $80K–$150K+
Requires ongoing licensing & training
Entrepreneurial freedom
On-call emergencies disrupt personal time
Despite the challenges, plumbing offers one of the best ROI career paths in the skilled trades—especially for those who value independence and tangible results.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do plumbers make more than electricians? A: On average, they’re similar. BLS reports electricians earn a median of $60,240 vs. plumbers at $60,090. However, top earners in either trade can exceed $100,000—specialization and location matter more than the trade itself.
Q2: How long does it take to start earning a good income as a plumber? A: Most apprentices earn a livable wage within 1–2 years. By year 4–5 (as a journeyman), $60K–$75K is typical. Master plumbers often reach $90K+ by year 7–10.
Q3: Can women succeed and earn well in plumbing? A: Absolutely. While only ~2% of plumbers are women, those in the field report equal pay and high demand—many clients specifically request female plumbers for home service.
Q4: Is plumbing recession-proof? A: Largely, yes. People always need running water and working toilets. During economic downturns, maintenance and repair work stays steady—even if new construction slows.
Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing niche? A: Medical gas installation, industrial pipefitting, and high-end residential remodels often command the highest hourly rates—sometimes $120+/hour.
Q6: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber? A: No. Most plumbers start with a high school diploma (or GED) and enter a paid apprenticeship through a union or trade school. Licensing requires passing exams, not degrees.
Conclusion
So, how much can I make as a plumber? The answer ranges from $40,000 as a beginner to $150,000+ as a savvy, licensed business owner—with most professionals landing comfortably in the $60K–$100K zone. With strong job security, low entry barriers, and real paths to financial independence, plumbing is more than a job—it’s a career that pays well and builds long-term value.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career—they’ll thank you later! 💧🔧
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