How Much Can You Make As A Plumber in 2025?

Thinking about a career in plumbing—or already turning wrenches and wondering if you’re earning what you’re worth? You’re not alone. Many people ask, “How much can you make as a plumber?”—especially as skilled trades gain recognition for offering stable, well-paying work without the burden of student debt. Whether you’re exploring a new path or looking to level up your current trade, this guide breaks down real plumber earnings, factors that boost your income, and how to get the most out of this hands-on profession.

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—that’s about $28.89 per hour. But that’s just the midpoint. Earnings vary widely based on experience, location, specialization, and business model.

• Entry-level plumbers (0–2 years): $35,000–$45,000/year
• Mid-career plumbers (3–7 years): $50,000–$70,000/year
• Experienced/master plumbers (8+ years): $75,000–$100,000+/year

Some top earners—even without owning a business—pull in over $110,000 annually, especially in high-demand metro areas like San Francisco, New York, or Anchorage.

💡 Pro Tip: Union plumbers often earn more due to standardized pay scales, benefits, and overtime protections. Check local union chapters like UA (United Association) for opportunities.

Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?

Location dramatically impacts your earning potential. Here’s a snapshot of the top 5 highest-paying states for plumbers (BLS, 2023):

Why? Cold climates (like Alaska) demand complex pipe insulation and emergency repairs. Urban hubs (like Chicago or Boston) face aging infrastructure and strict building codes—driving up labor costs.

Conversely, states like Mississippi or Arkansas average closer to $42,000–$48,000, reflecting lower cost of living and less demand.

How Does Experience Affect Plumber Earnings?

Like most skilled trades, plumbing rewards time, training, and expertise. Here’s how your paycheck grows with your career:

• Apprentice (0–4 years): Paid while learning—typically 40–60% of a journeyman’s wage. Expect $15–$22/hour plus benefits in union programs.
• Journeyman (4–8 years): Fully licensed, can work independently. Average: $25–$38/hour.
• Master Plumber (8+ years): Can supervise teams, design systems, and pull permits. Often earns $40–$60+/hour or runs a business.

⚠️ Note: Becoming a master plumber usually requires passing an exam and logging 2,000–4,000 supervised hours beyond journeyman status—requirements vary by state.

Can You Earn More by Starting Your Own Plumbing Business?

Absolutely—and many plumbers do. While employees cap out around $80K–$100K, business owners often clear $120,000–$200,000+ annually after a few years—especially in residential service markets.

Consider this real-world example:

• A solo plumber charging $125/hour for service calls (common in major cities)
• Works 20 billable hours/week (realistic with admin, travel, and downtime)
• Earns $2,500/week → $130,000/year before expenses
• After taxes, insurance, and vehicle costs, net income often lands $80,000–$110,000 in Year 1–2
• By Year 3–5, adding 1–2 employees can push net profits past $150,000

🔗 For more on trade licensing and regulations, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .

The key? Specialize (e.g., tankless water heaters, sewer camera diagnostics) and master marketing (Google Reviews, local SEO, referral programs).

What Factors Increase a Plumber’s Income?

Beyond location and experience, these factors significantly boost earnings:

• Overtime & Emergency Calls: Weekend or after-hours work often pays 1.5x–2x regular rates.
• Commercial vs. Residential: Commercial plumbing (hospitals, factories) typically pays more due to complexity.
• Certifications: Holding credentials in backflow prevention, medical gas, or green plumbing can add $5–$15/hour to your rate.
• Union Membership: Union plumbers earn 10–25% more on average and receive pensions/healthcare.
• Niche Skills: Expertise in hydronic heating, gas line installation, or renovation plumbing commands premium pricing.

Plumbing Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades

How does plumbing compare to similar careers? Here’s a quick comparison (2023 BLS data):

Plumbing holds its own—and often outperforms college-degree careers like graphic design ($58,900) or social work ($58,380), without requiring $50K+ in tuition.

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

Want to climb the earnings ladder? Follow this actionable roadmap:

1. Complete a Licensed Apprenticeship
   → Enroll through a union (UA) or vocational school. Most last 4–5 years and include classroom + on-the-job training.
2. Get Your Journeyman License
   → Pass your state’s exam (study codes like IPC and UPC). Fees: $50–$200.
3. Work for a Reputable Company (2–3 Years)
   → Learn systems, customer service, and estimating. Save capital for future business.
4. Add High-Value Certifications
   → Take a backflow tester course ($200–$400). Get EPA 608 certified if handling refrigerants.
5. Go Independent or Start a Side Hustle
   → Begin with weekends: fix faucets, install disposals, replace water heaters. Use apps like Angi or HomeAdvisor.
6. Scale with Marketing & Team Building
   → Create a simple website with booking. Hire your first apprentice at $20/hour. Reinvest profits into vans and tools.

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Earnings

Q: Do plumbers really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially master plumbers in high-cost states or business owners. Top 10% of earners make over $105,000, per BLS.

Q: How long does it take to start earning a good income as a plumber?
A: Most apprentices earn $30K–$40K in Year 1. By Year 4 (as a journeyman), $55K–$70K is typical. Six figures usually take 8–10 years or entrepreneurship.

Q: Is plumbing a stable career?
A: Extremely. Plumbing is recession-resistant—people always need clean water and working toilets. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, with 12,000+ openings yearly from retirements alone.

Q: Can women succeed and earn well as plumbers?
A: Absolutely. While only ~2% of plumbers are women, those in the field report equal pay and high demand—many clients prefer female technicians for home service.

Q: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?
A: No. A high school diploma or GED + apprenticeship is sufficient. Trade schools (6 months–2 years) can fast-track licensing but aren’t mandatory.

Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing specialty?
A: Commercial/industrial plumbing, medical gas installation, and plumbing inspection (for municipalities) offer the top rates—often $60–$90/hour.

Conclusion

So, how much can you make as a plumber? The honest answer: from $40,000 as a beginner to $150,000+ as a savvy business owner—with job security, low debt, and hands-on satisfaction along the way. Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks; it’s a lucrative, future-proof career that rewards skill, hustle, and reliability.

If you’re considering this path—or ready to grow your current trade—you’ve got serious earning potential ahead.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with someone exploring a trade career on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter! 🛠️💧