How Much Can You Earn As a Plumber? (2025 Salary Guide)

Thinking about becoming a plumber—or already turning wrenches and wondering if you’re earning your worth? You’re not alone. Many people choose plumbing for its job stability, hands-on work, and surprisingly strong income potential. If you’ve ever asked, “How much can you earn as a plumber?”—you’re in the right place. In this guide, we break down real earnings, regional differences, and how experience (and smart choices) can boost your paycheck.

What Is the Average Plumber Salary in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090 as of May 2023. But that’s just the starting point.

Here’s a clearer breakdown:

Note: These figures vary significantly by location, certifications, and employment type (employee vs. self-employed).

For context, plumbers often earn more than the national median household income, which was $74,580 in 2023. And unlike many office jobs, plumbing rarely requires a 4-year degree—just technical training and apprenticeship.

Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?

Location dramatically impacts earnings. The top-paying states for plumbers in 2025 are:

1. Alaska – $85,500 average
2. Illinois – $82,000
3. New Jersey – $80,800
4. Massachusetts – $79,500
5. Hawaii – $78,900

Why the difference? High cost of living, union presence, and demand for specialized work (like snow-melt pipe systems in Alaska or historic plumbing retrofits in the Northeast) all drive wages up.

Conversely, states like Mississippi and Arkansas report average plumber salaries below $45,000—though cost of living is also lower there.

💡 Pro Tip: Consider working in urban areas or regions with aging infrastructure—cities like Chicago, Boston, and Seattle frequently need skilled plumbers for emergency repairs and upgrades.

How Does Certification Affect Your Earnings?

Not all plumbers earn the same—even in the same city. Certification and licensing make a huge difference.

Types of Plumbing Credentials:

• Apprentice: Working under supervision, typically earns 40–60% of a journeyman’s wage.
• Journeyman Plumber: Licensed to work independently. Requires 2–5 years of apprenticeship + exam.
• Master Plumber: Highest credential. Allows you to pull permits, run a business, and mentor apprentices.

Impact on Income:

• Journeyman plumbers earn 15–25% more than non-certified peers.
• Master plumbers in high-demand markets can charge $100–$150/hour for complex jobs.

According to Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), certified plumbers are also 3x more likely to get hired full-time and receive benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.

Employee vs. Self-Employed: Which Pays Better?

This is a key decision that shapes your income ceiling.

Working for a Company:

✅ Steady paycheck
✅ Benefits (health, PTO, tools)
✅ Less administrative work
❌ Capped earnings (rarely exceeds $80k unless management)

Owning Your Own Business:

✅ Unlimited earning potential
✅ Set your rates and schedule
✅ Build equity in a brand
❌ Higher startup costs (van, insurance, licenses)
❌ Inconsistent cash flow early on

Real-World Example:
Mark, a master plumber in Denver, earned $68,000/year at a plumbing firm. After launching his own business, he hit $125,000 in Year 2 by focusing on emergency calls and commercial contracts.

📌 Note: Self-employed plumbers must also handle taxes, marketing, and customer service—but tools like job-tracking apps and referral programs can streamline operations.

What Additional Income Streams Can Plumbers Tap Into?

Smart plumbers diversify. Here’s how:

1. Overtime & Emergency Calls: Many charge 1.5x–2x normal rates after hours or on weekends.
2. Specialized Services:
   • Gas line installation (+$20–$40/hour premium)
   • Backflow prevention testing (certification required, but high demand)
   • Water filtration system installs (markup on equipment = 30–50%)
3. Teaching or Consulting: Experienced plumbers can train apprentices or consult for construction firms.
4. YouTube or Social Media: DIY plumbing content creators earn through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate sales (e.g., recommending trusted tools).

Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income

Follow this practical roadmap:

Step 1: Complete a state-approved apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years, paid while you learn).
Step 2: Get your journeyman license—study code books and take practice exams.
Step 3: Work for 2–3 years to build reputation and savings.
Step 4: Obtain master plumber certification (required in most states to run a business).
Step 5: Start small—offer weekend emergency services while employed.
Step 6: Invest in branded vehicle, website, and Google Business Profile for local SEO.
Step 7: Upsell maintenance plans—e.g., $150/year for water heater flushes and drain inspections.

💡 Bonus: Join a union (like UA – United Association). Union plumbers often earn 20% more and get pension plans. Learn more about trade unions on Wikipedia .

FAQ: How Much Can You Earn As a Plumber?

Q1: Do plumbers really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially master plumbers in high-cost states or business owners. Top 10% of earners made over $103,000 in 2023 (BLS).

Q2: How long does it take to start earning a good salary?
A: Most apprentices earn $20–$25/hour within 2 years. By year 4–5, you can hit $60k+ as a licensed journeyman.

Q3: Is plumbing a dying trade?
A: Quite the opposite. The BLS projects 5% job growth through 2032—faster than average—due to infrastructure upgrades and retiring workers.

Q4: Can women succeed as plumbers?
A: Absolutely. While only ~2% of plumbers are women, those in the field report high job satisfaction and strong demand. Organizations like NAWRB support women in trades.

Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?
A: Commercial or industrial plumbers working on high-rises, hospitals, or factories often earn the most—especially with welding or blueprint-reading skills.

Q6: Do I need a degree to become a plumber?
A: No. A high school diploma plus technical school/apprenticeship is sufficient. Many programs are free or employer-paid.

Conclusion

So, how much can you earn as a plumber? Realistically: $50,000 to $150,000+, depending on your choices, location, and hustle. Plumbing offers one of the best ROI career paths—low debt, high demand, and real-world problem-solving.

If you’re considering this trade, know this: Your skills are valuable, your income can grow steadily, and you’ll never be replaced by AI.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with someone exploring a trade career!
💬 Have questions about plumbing salaries in your state? Drop a comment below—we’d love to help.

Stay leak-free and financially flush! 💧💰