Thinking about starting a career in the skilled trades but worried about making ends meet during training? You’re not alone. Many aspiring plumbers ask, “How much do you get paid for a plumbing apprenticeship?”—and for good reason. After all, you’re investing your time and energy to learn a valuable craft. The good news? Plumbing apprentices do get paid, often from day one, and your earnings grow as your skills do. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect—and how to set yourself up for success.
What Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
A plumbing apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. Typically lasting 4 to 5 years, it’s the most common path to becoming a licensed journeyman plumber in the U.S.
Unlike unpaid internships in other fields, plumbing apprenticeships are paid positions. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor classifies them as formal employment, meaning you earn wages while you learn.
💡 Did You Know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , plumbing is one of the highest-paying skilled trades—with strong job growth projected through 2032.
How Much Do Plumbing Apprentices Actually Earn?
The short answer: It depends—but most apprentices start between $15 and $25 per hour, with significant room to grow.
National Average Pay (2025 Data)
Year 1
$15 – $18
$31,200 – $37,440
Year 2
$17 – $21
$35,360 – $43,680
Year 3
$19 – $24
$39,520 – $49,920
Year 4
$21 – $27
$43,680 – $56,160
Year 5
$23 – $30+
$47,840 – $62,400+
Source: Compiled from BLS, union wage reports, and industry surveys (2024–2025)
⚠️ Note: These figures assume 40 hours/week and 52 weeks/year. Overtime, bonuses, and regional cost-of-living adjustments can significantly increase take-home pay.
What Factors Affect Plumbing Apprentice Pay?
Your paycheck isn’t just based on time served—it’s influenced by several key variables:
1. Location (State & City)
Wages vary widely by region. For example:
New York City: First-year apprentices average $22/hour (plus benefits).
Texas (rural areas): May start closer to $14/hour.
California: Union programs often pay $20+/hour from day one.
🌎 Pro Tip: Check your state’s Department of Labor or local plumbers’ union (e.g., UA – United Association) for exact wage scales.
2. Union vs. Non-Union Programs
Union apprenticeships (e.g., through UA Local 1) typically offer higher starting wages, health benefits, and pension plans.
Non-union (open-shop) programs may start lower but offer more flexible scheduling or faster advancement in some cases.
3. Employer Type
Large commercial plumbing firms often pay more than small residential contractors.
Government or municipal apprenticeships may include paid leave and retirement contributions.
4. Certifications & Specializations
Earning additional credentials (e.g., backflow prevention, medical gas piping, or green plumbing) can boost your hourly rate—even during apprenticeship.
How Does Pay Increase Over Time?
Most plumbing apprenticeships use a progressive wage scale. You’ll receive raises after completing set hours (usually 1,000–2,000 hours) and passing skill assessments.
For example, a typical union program might look like this:
0–1,000 hours: 50% of journeyman wage
1,001–2,000 hours: 55%
2,001–3,000 hours: 60%
…
Final year: 90–95% of journeyman rate
If a journeyman plumber earns $35/hour, your first-year pay would be $17.50/hour—and you’d reach $33.25/hour by year five.
While the hourly wage matters, don’t overlook total compensation:
✅ Health insurance (medical, dental, vision) ✅ Retirement plans (401(k) or pension) ✅ Paid vacation & holidays ✅ Tuition reimbursement for trade school ✅ Tool allowances or company-provided gear
Many union programs include all of the above—making them far more valuable than base pay alone suggests.
How to Maximize Your Apprenticeship Earnings
Want to earn more from day one? Follow these steps:
Apply to Union Programs Visit UA.org to find a local chapter. Union wages are standardized and often 20–30% higher.
Target High-Demand Areas States like Arizona, Florida, and Colorado are experiencing plumbing shortages—leading to signing bonuses and faster advancement.
Complete Safety & OSHA Certifications Early Being OSHA 10-certified makes you more valuable to employers and can qualify you for higher-paying job sites.
Track Your Hours Meticulously Your wage increases depend on documented on-the-job hours. Use a digital log or official timesheet.
Ask About Overtime Many plumbing jobs offer time-and-a-half after 40 hours/week—common during emergencies or new construction booms.
Plumbing Apprenticeship vs. Other Trade Apprenticeships: Pay Comparison
Plumbing
$16 – $22
$30 – $45
Electrical
$15 – $20
$28 – $42
HVAC
$14 – $19
$25 – $40
Carpentry
$15 – $21
$27 – $38
Source: National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER), 2025
Plumbing consistently ranks among the top-paying trades, especially in commercial and industrial settings.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumbing Apprenticeship Pay
Q: Do plumbing apprentices get paid weekly or biweekly?
A: Most employers pay weekly or biweekly, just like full-time staff. Payment schedules follow standard payroll practices.
Q: Are taxes taken out of my apprenticeship paycheck?
A: Yes. Apprentices are W-2 employees, so federal/state taxes, Social Security, and Medicare are withheld automatically.
Q: Can I work a second job while in an apprenticeship?
A: Technically yes—but most programs require 30–40 hours/week on the job plus evening classes. Burnout is real; prioritize your training.
Q: Do I have to pay for my own tools or classes?
A: It varies. Union programs often cover tuition and provide starter tool kits. Non-union may require you to buy your own—budget $500–$1,000 upfront.
Q: How soon after starting do I get my first paycheck?
A: Typically within 1–2 weeks, depending on the employer’s payroll cycle. Some offer advance pay for travel or relocation.
Q: Will my pay increase automatically, or do I need to ask?
A: In formal programs (especially union), raises are automatic upon completing required hours and passing exams. Keep your paperwork updated!
Unlike a four-year degree that leaves you with loans and no job guarantee, a plumbing apprenticeship puts cash in your pocket from day one and opens doors to a six-figure career.
If you’re ready to build a stable, respected, and well-paid future, apply to an apprenticeship today. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who’s considering a trade career—your next apprentice buddy might thank you!
🔧 Your hands can build more than pipes—they can build a life.
Leave a Reply