Thinking about becoming a plumber but wondering, “How much do you get paid for plumbing apprenticeships?” You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople want to know if they can support themselves while learning the ropes. The good news? Plumbing apprenticeships offer real pay from day one—not just classroom theory. In this guide, we’ll break down exact earnings, regional differences, and how your paycheck grows as you gain skills.
What Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship?
A plumbing apprenticeship is a paid, on-the-job training program that combines hands-on work with classroom instruction. Typically lasting 4 to 5 years, it’s the standard path to becoming a licensed journeyman plumber in the U.S.
Unlike unpaid internships, plumbing apprentices earn wages while they learn—a major advantage in today’s economy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), apprenticeships in skilled trades like plumbing are among the most financially accessible career pathways with strong long-term ROI.
💡 Did you know? The U.S. Department of Labor recognizes plumbing as a “high-demand occupation” with over 50,000 new jobs expected by 2032 (BLS, 2024 ).
How Much Do Plumbing Apprentices Make? (2025 Data)
Your pay as a plumbing apprentice depends on location, union vs. non-union status, and experience level. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
National Average (2025)
Starting wage: $15–$20 per hour
Mid-apprenticeship (Year 2–3): $20–$25/hour
Final year (Year 4–5): $25–$32/hour
According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), the average first-year plumbing apprentice earns $31,200 annually (based on 40 hours/week). By year five, that jumps to $55,000–$65,000+.
State-by-State Comparison (Hourly Rates – First Year)
🔗 For more on how apprenticeships work nationally, see the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship page (note: while not Wikipedia, this is a .gov source; per your request, we’ll include one Wikipedia link below).
Union vs. Non-Union Apprenticeships: Which Pays More?
This is a common question—and the answer matters for your wallet.
Union Apprenticeships (e.g., UA – United Association)
Pros: Higher starting wages, structured raises (often 5% every 6 months), full benefits (health, retirement), job security.
Cons: Competitive entry; may require waiting lists or local residency.
Non-Union Apprenticeships
Pros: Easier/faster entry, more flexible schedules, often tied to local contractors.
Cons: Lower starting pay, fewer benefits, less standardized training.
📊 Real Example: A first-year UA apprentice in Chicago earns $21/hour + health insurance. A non-union apprentice in the same city might start at $16/hour with no benefits—a $10,400 annual difference before overtime.
Plumbing apprenticeships use a progressive wage scale. Most programs increase pay every 1,000–2,000 hours worked (roughly every 6–12 months).
Typical Pay Progression (Union Program Example):
Year 1: 50% of journeyman rate → $18/hour
Year 2: 60% → $22/hour
Year 3: 70% → $26/hour
Year 4: 80% → $29/hour
Year 5: 90% → $32/hour
Once licensed, journeyman plumbers average $60,000–$85,000/year, with top earners in metro areas clearing $100,000+.
Benefits Beyond the Hourly Wage
Don’t just look at the paycheck. Many apprenticeships include:
Health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
Pension or 401(k) contributions
Paid time off (after probation)
Tuition reimbursement for related coursework
Overtime opportunities (time-and-a-half after 40 hours/week)
In high-demand markets like Seattle or Boston, overtime can add $5,000–$10,000+ annually to your income—even as an apprentice.
How to Maximize Your Apprenticeship Earnings
Want to earn more from day one? Follow these steps:
Apply to union programs – They almost always pay more.
Target high-wage states – CA, NY, MA, WA, and NJ lead in apprentice pay.
Complete your classroom hours on time – Delays can stall wage increases.
Seek employers who offer bonuses – Some contractors give sign-on or performance bonuses.
Track your hours meticulously – Ensure you hit milestones for raises.
✅ Pro Tip: Use the Apprenticeship.gov portal to find registered programs near you—these are vetted and meet federal quality standards.
FAQ: Plumbing Apprenticeship Pay
Q1: Do plumbing apprentices get paid weekly?
Yes. Most employers pay weekly or biweekly, just like full-time employees. Direct deposit is common.
Q2: Are plumbing apprenticeships free?
The training itself is typically free or low-cost. Employers and unions cover most tuition. You may pay for tools, books, or union dues ($20–$100/month).
Q3: Can you live off a plumbing apprentice salary?
In most areas, yes—especially by Year 2. In high-cost cities (e.g., San Francisco), you may need a roommate early on, but wages rise quickly.
Q4: Do apprentices get overtime pay?
Absolutely. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), apprentices are entitled to 1.5x hourly rate for hours over 40/week.
Q5: How does plumbing pay compare to other trades?
Plumbing pays more than electrical or HVAC apprenticeships in most regions. According to BLS, plumbers have the highest median wage among residential trades.
Q6: What’s the #1 factor that increases apprentice pay?
Union membership. UA apprentices consistently earn 20–30% more than non-union peers with identical experience.
Conclusion
So, how much do you get paid for plumbing apprenticeships? Realistically, $15–$20/hour to start, rising to $30+/hour before you even become a journeyman. With benefits, overtime, and strong job security, it’s one of the best-paid entry paths into a recession-proof career.
If you’re ready to build a future with your hands—and your paycheck—a plumbing apprenticeship is a smart, lucrative choice.
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