Thinking about becoming a journeyman plumber in Texas—or already on the path and wondering what your paycheck might look like? You’re not alone. With Texas’s booming construction industry and constant demand for skilled tradespeople, plumbing remains a stable and rewarding career. But how much does a journeyman plumber make in Texas, really? In this guide, we’ll break down real salary data, regional pay differences, factors that affect earnings, and how you can maximize your income in this in-demand trade.
What Is a Journeyman Plumber?
Before diving into salary figures, it’s important to understand what a journeyman plumber actually is. In Texas, plumbers follow a tiered licensing system:
- Apprentice – Entry-level, working under supervision.
- Journeyman – Licensed to work independently on residential and commercial plumbing systems.
- Master Plumber – Can oversee projects, pull permits, and run a plumbing business.
A journeyman plumber has typically completed 4–5 years of apprenticeship (around 8,000 hours of hands-on work) and passed the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE) exam. This license allows them to install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems without direct supervision.
💡 Fun Fact: Texas does not require state-level licensing for plumbers in all areas—but most major cities (like Houston, Dallas, and Austin) do enforce local licensing, and journeyman status significantly boosts earning potential.
Average Journeyman Plumber Salary in Texas (2025 Data)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and industry reports from 2025, the average annual salary for a journeyman plumber in Texas is:
- $58,000 – $72,000 per year
- Hourly wage: $28 – $35 per hour
However, this range can vary widely based on location, experience, employer type, and overtime.
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $52,000 | $25 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 yrs) | $65,000 | $31 |
| Experienced (8+ yrs) | $78,000+ | $37+ |
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024), adjusted for 2025 inflation and Texas market trends.
How Location Affects Pay in Texas
Texas is huge—and so are the pay differences across its cities. Urban centers with high construction activity and cost of living tend to offer higher wages.
Top-Paying Cities for Journeyman Plumbers in Texas (2025)
| Houston | $71,200 |
| Dallas | $69,800 |
| Austin | $70,500 |
| San Antonio | $63,400 |
| El Paso | $57,900 |
Why the difference?
- Houston and Dallas have dense commercial construction and aging infrastructure needing upgrades.
- Austin’s tech-driven growth fuels new residential developments, increasing demand.
- Smaller cities or rural areas may offer lower pay but also lower living costs.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re willing to travel for service calls or work with commercial contractors, you can often earn 10–20% more than local residential plumbers.
Factors That Influence a Journeyman Plumber’s Earnings
Your paycheck isn’t just about hours logged. Several key factors can boost—or limit—your income:
1. Employer Type
- Union vs. Non-Union: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 68 in Dallas) often earn 15–25% more plus benefits.
- Private Company vs. Self-Employed: Self-employed journeymen can charge premium rates but handle overhead costs.
- Commercial vs. Residential: Commercial plumbing jobs (hospitals, offices, factories) typically pay higher hourly rates due to complexity.
2. Overtime & Emergency Calls
Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half for weekend or after-hours work. Emergency drain cleaning or burst pipe repairs can add $500–$1,000+ per call in extra income monthly.
3. Specialized Skills
Certifications in areas like:
- Backflow prevention
- Medical gas piping
- Green plumbing (water efficiency)
…can increase your marketability and justify higher rates.
4. Licensing & Continuing Education
While Texas doesn’t mandate state licensing statewide, holding a TSBPE journeyman license builds trust and opens doors to higher-paying contracts—especially in regulated municipalities.
🔗 For more on plumbing licensing standards, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing codes , which outlines how regulations vary by region—including Texas.
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Journeyman Plumber
Want to move from “average” to “top 10%” earners? Here’s a step-by-step plan:
- Get Your TSBPE Journeyman License
Even if your city doesn’t require it, having it makes you more competitive. Study using TSBPE-approved materials and take the exam within 6 months of eligibility. - Work for a Reputable Contractor
Companies like John Moore Services (Dallas) or My Plumber (Houston) often pay above-market rates for skilled journeymen. - Track Overtime Opportunities
Volunteer for weekend shifts or emergency rotations—these often come with bonuses. - Upskill Every 12–18 Months
Take a 16-hour course in tankless water heater installation or smart plumbing diagnostics. These niche skills let you charge $50+/hour. - Consider Going Master
After 1–2 years as a journeyman, pursue your Master Plumber license. Masters in Texas average $85,000–$100,000/year.
Journeyman vs. Apprentice vs. Master: Salary Comparison
| Apprentice | $35,000 – $45,000 | Yes | No |
| Journeyman | $58,000 – $72,000 | No | Only under master’s license |
| Master | $85,000 – $110,000 | No | Yes |
This progression shows why many plumbers aim for journeyman status—it’s the sweet spot of independence + strong income without the business risks of going solo too soon.
FAQ: Journeyman Plumber Salary in Texas
Q1: Do journeyman plumbers in Texas get benefits?
A: Yes—if employed by a company or union. Typical benefits include health insurance, retirement plans (401k), paid time off, and tool allowances. Self-employed plumbers must secure their own coverage.
Q2: How long does it take to become a journeyman plumber in Texas?
A: Most apprenticeships last 4 years (8,000 work hours + 576 classroom hours). After that, you can apply for the journeyman exam through TSBPE.
Q3: Can I make six figures as a journeyman plumber in Texas?
A: It’s possible—but not typical without overtime, side gigs, or specialization. Top earners hit $90,000+ by working 50–60 hours/week, taking emergency calls, or working in high-demand commercial sectors.
Q4: Is plumbing a good career in Texas?
A: Absolutely. Texas adds over 1,000 new plumbing jobs yearly (BLS projection). With population growth and infrastructure needs, demand will stay strong through 2030.
Q5: Are there female journeyman plumbers in Texas?
A: Yes—and their numbers are growing! While still underrepresented (~5% of the workforce), organizations like Women in Plumbing (WIP) offer mentorship and support across Texas cities.
Q6: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Texas?
A: Industrial or medical gas plumbers working in refineries, hospitals, or data centers often earn the most—sometimes $45–$60/hour due to specialized certifications and safety requirements.
Conclusion
So, how much does a journeyman plumber make in Texas? On average, between $58,000 and $72,000 per year—with real potential to earn more through smart career moves, location choices, and skill development. Whether you’re starting your apprenticeship or leveling up your license, plumbing in Texas offers job security, upward mobility, and solid pay without a college degree.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career! 👷♂️
→ Tweet this: “Thinking about plumbing in Texas? Journeyman plumbers earn $58K–$72K/year—and demand is soaring! #TexasJobs #SkilledTrades”
And if you’re ready to take the next step, visit the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners to learn about licensing requirements in your area. Your future in pipes, paychecks, and prosperity starts now!
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