Thinking about a career in plumbing—but not sure what to expect financially in the beginning? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople wonder, “How much does a first year plumber make?” Whether you’re fresh out of high school, switching careers, or just exploring skilled trades, knowing your potential earnings can help you plan smarter. In this guide, we break down entry-level plumber salaries with verified data, location insights, and practical tips to maximize your income from day one.
What Is a First Year Plumber?
A first year plumber is typically an apprentice who’s just started formal training—often through a union program, trade school, or on-the-job mentorship. During this stage, you’ll assist licensed plumbers, learn safety protocols, and begin mastering essential skills like pipe installation, drain cleaning, and fixture repair.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most plumbing apprenticeships last 4 to 5 years, with wages increasing incrementally each year as your skills improve.
Average First Year Plumber Salary in the U.S. (2025 Data)
As of 2025, the average hourly wage for a first-year plumbing apprentice ranges from $15 to $22 per hour, depending on location, employer, and union affiliation.
That translates to an annual income between $31,200 and $45,760 (based on 40 hours/week × 52 weeks).
Here’s a breakdown by source:
BLS (May 2024): Median wage for apprentices is ~$18.50/hour
Indeed (2025): Average reported salary: $19.25/hour
ZipRecruiter: Entry-level plumbing roles average $17.80/hour
💡 Pro Tip: Union apprentices (e.g., through UA – United Association) often start higher—around $20–$24/hour—with benefits like health insurance and pension contributions.
How Location Affects First Year Plumber Pay
Where you work dramatically impacts your starting salary. High-cost states tend to offer higher wages to offset living expenses.
California
$22–$26
High demand in cities like Los Angeles & San Diego
New York
$21–$25
Union-heavy markets boost entry pay
Texas
$16–$20
Lower cost of living = modest starting wages
Florida
$15–$19
High job growth but competitive entry-level market
Alaska
$23–$28
Remote work & harsh conditions = premium pay
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Wage Data, 2025
Keep in mind: rural areas may pay less but offer lower living costs and faster advancement due to fewer workers.
Union vs. Non-Union: Which Pays Better for Beginners?
Union apprenticeships (like those from the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry) typically offer:
Higher starting wages
Structured pay increases (e.g., +5% every 1,000 hours)
Paid classroom instruction
Health and retirement benefits
Non-union apprentices may start $2–$5/hour lower, but some private companies offer faster on-the-job learning or bonuses for overtime.
📌 Example: In Chicago, a UA apprentice starts at $23.40/hour plus full benefits. A non-union apprentice at a local contractor might start at $17/hour with no benefits but more flexible scheduling.
Even as a beginner, you can boost your earnings with smart strategies:
Choose a High-Pay Region: Relocate to states with labor shortages (e.g., Nevada, Washington).
Join a Union Program: Apply early—competition is high, but the payoff is worth it.
Work Overtime: Many plumbing companies pay 1.5x for weekend or emergency calls.
Get Certified Early: Certifications like OSHA 10 or Backflow Prevention can make you more valuable.
Track Your Hours Diligently: Apprenticeship programs require exact hour logs for wage increases—don’t miss out!
First Year Plumber: Pros and Cons
Advantages ✅ Hands-on, no student debt ✅ Steady demand (plumbing is recession-resistant) ✅ Clear path to $70K+ within 5 years ✅ Opportunity to start your own business
Challenges ❌ Physically demanding (lifting, crawling, outdoor work) ❌ Irregular hours (leaks don’t wait for business hours!) ❌ Initial pay lower than some office jobs
But remember: plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a career with compounding value. Most journeymen plumbers earn $60,000–$90,000/year, and master plumbers or business owners can exceed $100,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do first year plumbers get paid while training? A: Yes! Unlike many college degrees, plumbing apprenticeships pay you while you learn. You’ll split time between paid on-the-job work and (often paid) classroom instruction.
Q: How many hours do first year plumbers work per week? A: Most work 35–45 hours/week. Overtime is common during emergencies or busy seasons (spring/summer).
Q: Can I make more than $20/hour in my first year? A: Absolutely—if you’re in a union program, a high-wage state, or work for a commercial plumbing company (which often pays more than residential).
Q: Are there bonuses or tips for entry-level plumbers? A: Tips are rare in plumbing (unlike food service), but some companies offer completion bonuses for finishing training modules or perfect attendance.
Q: How soon can I expect a raise as a plumber apprentice? A: Most programs give raises every 6–12 months or after completing 1,000–2,000 work hours. Union contracts define exact timelines.
Q: Is plumbing school required before starting? A: Not always. Many employers accept high school diplomas or GEDs and provide training. However, trade school (6–12 months) can help you land higher-paying apprentice spots faster.
Conclusion
So, how much does a first year plumber make? Realistically, $31,000–$46,000 annually—with significant room to grow based on your choices, location, and work ethic. Plumbing offers one of the best ROI paths in the skilled trades: no college debt, paid training, and high long-term earnings.
If you’re ready to build a stable, respected, and financially rewarding career, plumbing is a smart move. Share this guide with someone considering a trade career—and help them skip the guesswork!
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