Thinking about becoming a plumber but wondering, “How much does a first-year plumbing apprentice earn?” 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 paid on-the-job training, real-world experience, and a clear path to a stable, well-paying career—even from year one.
What Is a Plumbing Apprentice?
Before diving into salary figures, it’s important to understand what a plumbing apprentice actually does. A plumbing apprentice works under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber, learning everything from pipe installation to code compliance. Most apprenticeships last 4 to 5 years and combine hands-on work with classroom instruction.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), plumbing is a growing field with strong job security and opportunities for advancement—making it a smart career move for those who prefer practical work over a traditional college path.
How Much Does a First-Year Plumbing Apprentice Earn?
On average, a first-year plumbing apprentice in the United States earns between $15 and $20 per hour, which translates to roughly $31,000 to $42,000 annually (assuming a standard 40-hour workweek). However, actual pay can vary significantly based on location, employer, and union affiliation.
Key Factors That Influence Apprentice Pay:
- Geographic Location: Apprentices in high-cost states like California, New York, or Massachusetts often earn more than those in rural or low-cost areas.
- Union vs. Non-Union: Union apprentices (e.g., through UA – United Association) typically start at higher wages and receive scheduled raises.
- Employer Type: Large contractors or municipal agencies may offer better starting pay than small local shops.
- Local Demand: Areas with labor shortages may offer signing bonuses or higher starting rates.
💡 Example: In 2024, a first-year apprentice in Chicago (a union-heavy market) earned $18.50/hour, while a non-union apprentice in rural Texas might start closer to $14/hour.
For more context on skilled trades and apprenticeships in the U.S., see the U.S. Department of Labor’s overview .
Plumbing Apprentice Pay by State (2025 Estimates)
| California | $20.50 | $42,640 |
| Texas | $16.00 | $33,280 |
| New York | $19.75 | $41,080 |
| Florida | $15.25 | $31,720 |
| Illinois | $18.90 | $39,312 |
| Ohio | $15.80 | $32,864 |
Source: Compiled from BLS data, union wage scales, and industry reports (2024–2025).
Union vs. Non-Union Apprentice Pay: What’s the Difference?
One of the biggest determinants of your starting wage is whether you join a union apprenticeship program.
Union Apprenticeships (e.g., United Association – UA)
- Start at 50–60% of a journeyman’s wage
- Receive structured raises every 6–12 months (often 5–10% per period)
- Include health insurance, pension plans, and paid training
- Highly competitive to enter but offer long-term stability
Non-Union Apprenticeships
- May start lower (sometimes $12–$15/hour)
- Raises are less predictable and depend on employer discretion
- Fewer benefits, but easier to get into in some regions
- Great for those who prefer flexibility or live in non-union strongholds
📌 Pro Tip: Even if you start non-union, you can often transition into union programs later—especially if you build strong skills and references.
How Does Apprentice Pay Increase Over Time?
Most plumbing apprenticeships follow a progressive wage scale. Here’s a typical example from a UA-affiliated program:
| 1 | 50% | $18.00 |
| 2 | 60% | $21.60 |
| 3 | 70% | $25.20 |
| 4 | 80% | $28.80 |
| 5 | 90% | $32.40 |
*Based on a $36/hour journeyman wage (common in major metro areas).
By your fifth year, you could be earning over $65,000 annually—and that’s before becoming a licensed journeyman, where salaries often exceed $70,000–$90,000+.
Benefits Beyond the Paycheck
While the hourly wage matters, don’t overlook the non-monetary benefits of a plumbing apprenticeship:
- Zero student debt (unlike college degrees)
- Paid training—you earn while you learn
- Job security: Plumbers are always in demand
- Career mobility: You can work anywhere in the U.S.
- Entrepreneurial potential: Many plumbers start their own businesses
In fact, according to a 2023 report by Forbes, skilled trades like plumbing offer some of the best ROI (return on investment) among career paths—especially when you factor in low entry costs and high lifetime earnings.
How to Maximize Your First-Year Earnings
Want to earn more as a first-year apprentice? Try these proven strategies:
- Apply to Union Programs: They often pay more from day one.
- Work Overtime: Many plumbing jobs offer time-and-a-half after 40 hours.
- Choose High-Demand Areas: Cities with construction booms (e.g., Austin, Phoenix, Nashville) pay premium rates.
- Get Certified Early: Earning OSHA 10 or backflow prevention certs can make you more valuable.
- Show Up Early & Stay Late: Reliability often leads to more hours and faster promotions.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumbing Apprentice Pay
Q: Do plumbing apprentices get paid weekly?
A: Yes, most apprentices are paid hourly and receive wages weekly or biweekly, just like full-time employees.
Q: Are taxes taken out of an apprentice’s paycheck?
A: Absolutely. Apprentices are W-2 employees, so federal/state taxes, Social Security, and Medicare are withheld—just like any job.
Q: Can I support a family as a first-year apprentice?
A: It’s possible but challenging. Many apprentices work second jobs or live with family during the first 1–2 years. By year 3, income usually becomes more sustainable.
Q: Do apprentices get benefits like health insurance?
A: Union apprentices almost always do. Non-union benefits vary—some employers offer basic coverage, others don’t. Always ask during the interview.
Q: How many hours do plumbing apprentices work?
A: Typically 40 hours/week on the job, plus 1–2 evenings/month for classroom training. Overtime is common during busy seasons (spring/summer).
Q: Is plumbing apprentice pay taxed differently?
A: No. It’s treated like regular employment income. However, you can deduct work-related expenses (tools, boots, union dues) if you itemize—consult a tax pro.
Final Thoughts: Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship Worth It?
If you’re asking, “How much does a first-year plumbing apprentice earn?”—you’re already thinking like a future pro. While the starting pay may not rival a tech salary, the long-term earning potential, job stability, and debt-free career path make plumbing one of the smartest trades to enter in 2025.
Plus, you’ll gain real skills that can’t be outsourced or automated—and that’s priceless in today’s economy.
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All data reflects U.S. averages as of October 2025. Wages may vary by city, employer, and economic conditions. Always verify local rates through official union halls or state labor departments.
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