How Much Does a 1st Year Plumber Apprentice Make?

Thinking about starting a career in plumbing—but wondering if the paycheck during your first year will cover your bills? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople ask: “How much does a 1st year plumber apprentice make?” The good news? Even as an entry-level apprentice, you can earn while you learn—with room to grow fast. Let’s break down exactly what to expect in your first year on the job.

What Is a Plumber Apprentice?

Before diving into pay figures, it’s important to understand what a plumbing apprentice actually does. A plumber apprentice is someone in formal training to become a licensed journeyman plumber. This typically involves:

• Working under a licensed plumber or contractor
• Attending classroom instruction (often at night or on weekends)
• Learning pipefitting, drainage systems, safety protocols, and local plumbing codes

Apprenticeships usually last 4 to 5 years, with pay increasing each year as your skills improve.

How Much Does a 1st Year Plumber Apprentice Make? (National Average)

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and industry reports from 2024–2025, the average hourly wage for a first-year plumbing apprentice in the United States ranges from $15 to $20 per hour.

That translates to an annual income of approximately $31,200 to $41,600 (assuming 40 hours/week, 52 weeks/year).

💡 Note: These are pre-tax figures and do not include overtime, bonuses, or union benefits—common in this field.

Real-World Examples by State (2025 Data)

Source: U.S. Department of Labor & Wikipedia – Apprenticeship in the United States

Keep in mind: Union apprenticeships (e.g., through UA – United Association) often pay 10–20% more than non-union programs and include health insurance and retirement contributions—even in Year 1.

What Factors Affect Apprentice Pay?

Your exact paycheck depends on several key factors:

1. Geographic Location

Cost of living and local demand heavily influence wages. For example:

• Apprentices in San Francisco or Boston often earn more than those in rural Midwest towns.
• States with strong union presence (like Michigan or Washington) offer better starting rates.

2. Union vs. Non-Union Programs

• Union apprentices typically start at 60–70% of a journeyman’s wage.
• Non-union may start lower (as low as $12–$14/hour in some areas) but offer faster hiring.

3. Employer Type

• Large commercial plumbing firms often pay more than small residential contractors.
• Government or municipal apprenticeships may include benefits but slightly lower base pay.

4. Overtime & Seasonal Work

Plumbing is year-round, but spring/summer often means 10–20 hours of overtime weekly—boosting your take-home pay significantly.

Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Apprentice Earnings

Want to earn more in Year 1? Follow these proven steps:

1. Join a Union Program
   Apply through the United Association (UA) or local trade councils—they offer structured pay scales and benefits.
2. Work in High-Demand Areas
   Research cities with plumbing shortages (e.g., Phoenix, Denver, Atlanta). Higher demand = better pay.
3. Take on Overtime
   Don’t turn down extra hours. At $18/hour, 10 overtime hours/week = +$9,360/year (before taxes).
4. Complete Certifications Early
   Earn OSHA 10, backflow prevention, or green plumbing certs—they make you more valuable.
5. Track Every Hour
   Ensure your employer reports all hours to your apprenticeship board—this affects wage increases.

Pros and Cons of Starting as a Plumbing Apprentice

Despite the challenges, 92% of plumbing apprentices complete their programs and become licensed—according to the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

How Does Apprentice Pay Compare to Other Trades?

Curious how plumbing stacks up? Here’s a quick comparison of first-year apprentice wages (2025 U.S. averages):

Plumbing consistently ranks among the top 3 highest-paying skilled trades for apprentices—especially long-term.

FAQ Section

Q1: Do plumbing apprentices get paid weekly?

Yes! Most apprentices are paid hourly, with paychecks issued weekly or biweekly—just like full-time employees.

Q2: Is plumbing apprentice pay taxed?

Yes. Your wages are subject to federal/state income tax, Social Security, and Medicare—just like any job. You’ll receive a W-2 at year-end.

Q3: Can I support a family as a 1st-year apprentice?

It’s possible—but tight. Many apprentices live with family, have a second job, or rely on partner income during Year 1. By Year 3, most earn enough to support a household.

Q4: Are there paid apprenticeships near me?

Yes! Nearly all plumbing apprenticeships are paid. Search via:

• UA.org (United Association)
• Local community colleges
• State workforce development boards

Q5: How much do apprentices make after taxes?

Take-home pay varies by state, but a 1st-year apprentice earning $18/hour (~$37,440/year) typically nets $28,000–$31,000 after taxes (assuming standard deductions and no dependents).

Q6: Do I need prior experience to start?

No! Most programs accept applicants with a high school diploma or GED, basic math skills, and a willingness to learn. No plumbing experience required.

Conclusion

So, how much does a 1st year plumber apprentice make? On average: $15–$20/hour, with strong potential to grow fast. While it’s not a six-figure salary right away, plumbing offers one of the most reliable, debt-free paths to a stable, well-paying career in the skilled trades.

If you’re ready to build a future with your hands—and your brain—plumbing might be your perfect fit.

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Your journey to $70K+ starts with that first wrench.