Thinking about becoming a plumber—or already in the trade and curious if you’re earning your worth? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. If you’ve ever asked, “How much do you get paid for plumbing?”, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down real earnings, factors that boost (or limit) your income, and how you can position yourself for top dollar in 2025.
What Is the Average Salary for a Plumber in 2025?
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—the most recent official data. However, early 2025 industry reports from trade associations like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) suggest wages have risen due to high demand and labor shortages.
Here’s a snapshot of current earnings:
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $18 – $24 | $37,500 – $50,000 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 yrs) | $25 – $35 | $52,000 – $73,000 |
| Experienced (8+ yrs) | $36 – $50+ | $75,000 – $104,000+ |
Top earners—especially licensed master plumbers in high-cost states like California, New York, or Alaska—can surpass $120,000 annually, particularly if they run their own businesses.
💡 Pro Tip: Union plumbers often earn 15–25% more than non-union counterparts, thanks to negotiated wages and benefits.
What Factors Influence How Much You Get Paid for Plumbing?
Your paycheck isn’t just about turning wrenches—it’s shaped by several key variables:
1. Geographic Location
Plumbers in metropolitan areas with high living costs (e.g., San Francisco, Boston, Seattle) typically earn more. However, rural areas with fewer contractors may offer premium rates due to limited competition.
- Highest-Paying States (2024 BLS data):
- Alaska: $89,130
- Illinois: $86,270
- Hawaii: $84,010
- New Jersey: $83,920
- Massachusetts: $82,410
2. Licensing Level
- Apprentice: Paid hourly (usually 40–60% of journeyman rate) while training.
- Journeyman: Full pay after passing state exams and completing 4–5 years of apprenticeship.
- Master Plumber: Highest pay grade; often required to own a plumbing business.
Becoming a master plumber can increase your earning potential by 30–50% compared to journeyman status.
3. Specialization
Specialized skills command higher rates:
- Commercial plumbing: +10–20%
- Medical gas piping: +15–25%
- Green plumbing/LEED-certified systems: Growing niche with premium billing
4. Employment Type
- Self-employed: Highest income ceiling but with overhead costs.
- Union vs. Non-union: Union roles offer better wages, benefits, and job security.
- Emergency/After-Hours Work: Many plumbers charge 1.5x to 2x standard rates for nights, weekends, or holidays.
For more on professional standards, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing , which outlines historical and technical context of the trade.
How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income: 5 Actionable Steps
Want to earn more? Follow this roadmap:
- Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship
Most states require 4–5 years of supervised training. Programs like UA (United Association) Plumbers & Pipefitters offer paid apprenticeships with classroom instruction. - Get Licensed in Multiple States (If Mobile)
Some states have reciprocity agreements. Holding licenses in high-demand areas (e.g., Texas + Florida) gives you flexibility during economic shifts. - Add Complementary Certifications
Consider certifications in:- Backflow prevention
- Solar water heating
- OSHA 10/30 safety training
These can justify $5–$15/hour rate increases.
- Start a Side Business
Even part-time, offering drain cleaning or water heater installs on weekends can generate $1,000–$3,000/month extra. - Leverage Online Reviews & SEO
If you’re self-employed, a strong Google Business Profile with 5-star reviews can increase booking rates by up to 70%, according to HomeAdvisor data.
Plumbing Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades
How does plumbing stack up? Here’s a 2025 comparison of median annual wages:
| Plumber | $60,090 – $75,000* |
| Electrician | $60,240 |
| HVAC Technician | $51,390 |
| Carpenter | $52,020 |
| Welder | $47,540 |
* Plumbers often out-earn peers due to higher emergency service demand and licensing barriers.
Advantage of Plumbing:
- Recession-resilient: People always need working toilets and clean water.
- Low student debt: Most training costs under $5,000 vs. $30K+ for college.
- Fast career start: Full certification in 4–5 years vs. 6+ for many professions.
FAQ Section
Q: Do plumbers really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially master plumbers in high-demand areas or those who own businesses. According to PHCC, 22% of self-employed plumbers earn over $100,000 annually, and top 10% exceed $130,000.
Q: How much do apprentice plumbers get paid?
A: Apprentices typically earn $15–$22/hour in their first year, increasing annually. Most programs also include health benefits and pension contributions (especially union-affiliated ones).
Q: Is plumbing a good career in 2025?
A: Absolutely. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, but real-world demand is higher due to retiring workers and infrastructure needs. The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) reports over 50,000 plumbing jobs will open annually through 2028.
Q: Can you make more as a plumber or an electrician?
A: It’s close—but plumbers often edge out due to emergency service premiums (e.g., burst pipes at 2 a.m.). However, electricians may have steadier commercial work.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
A: Most states require 4–5 years of apprenticeship (8,000+ hours of work) plus passing a written exam. Some states, like California, add practical tests.
Q: Do plumbers get paid weekly or hourly?
A: Most are paid hourly, especially when employed by a company. Self-employed plumbers invoice per job or hourly with a minimum charge (e.g., “$95/hr, 1-hour minimum”).
Conclusion
So, how much do you get paid for plumbing in 2025? The answer ranges from $40,000 as a beginner to over $120,000 as a master tradesperson—with strong potential for growth, stability, and independence. Unlike many careers, plumbing rewards hands-on skill, reliability, and continuous learning—not student loans or office politics.
Whether you’re considering this path or looking to level up your current trade, now is an excellent time to invest in your plumbing career. High demand, low unemployment, and rising wages make it one of America’s most dependable blue-collar professions.
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