How Much Does a Journeyman Plumber Make Per Hour?

Thinking about becoming a plumber—or already on the path and wondering if your paycheck matches the effort? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople want clarity on fair compensation, especially at the journeyman level. In this guide, we’ll answer the key question: how much does a journeyman plumber make per hour—and break down what really affects those numbers across the U.S.

Whether you’re weighing a career change, negotiating a raise, or just curious about trade salaries, you’ll find clear, data-backed insights ahead.

What Is a Journeyman Plumber?

Before diving into pay rates, it’s important to understand what a journeyman plumber actually is. After completing an apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years), plumbers earn journeyman status by passing a licensing exam. At this stage, they can work independently—without direct supervision—but aren’t yet master plumbers (who can run their own businesses and pull permits).

This mid-career role balances hands-on skill with growing responsibility, which directly impacts earning potential.

National Average Hourly Wage for Journeyman Plumbers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2024, the median hourly wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $29.83. However, journeyman plumbers often earn more than the median, especially with experience, certifications, or in high-demand regions.

• 25th percentile: ~$22/hour
• Median: ~$30/hour
• 75th percentile: ~$38/hour
• Top earners: $45+/hour

These figures can vary significantly based on location, employer type (union vs. non-union), and specialization (e.g., commercial vs. residential plumbing).

💡 Pro Tip: Union journeyman plumbers often earn 15–25% more than non-union counterparts due to negotiated wage scales and benefits.

How Location Affects Journeyman Plumber Pay

Where you work dramatically influences your hourly rate. Urban areas with high construction demand or strict licensing requirements tend to pay more.

Here’s a snapshot of average hourly wages by state (2024 data):

Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics

Cities like Chicago, New York City, and San Francisco consistently rank among the highest-paying markets due to cost of living and union presence.

🌐 For more on plumbing licensing by state, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing regulations in the United States .

Factors That Influence Hourly Pay

Not all journeyman plumbers earn the same—even in the same city. Here’s what moves the needle:

1. Experience:
   • 1–2 years post-apprenticeship: $25–$30/hour
   • 5+ years: $35–$45/hour
2. Specialization:
   • Medical gas or fire sprinkler systems often command premium rates.
   • Green plumbing (water-efficient systems) is a growing niche with higher pay potential.
3. Employer Type:
   • Union shops (e.g., UA Local unions): structured pay scales + benefits
   • Private contractors: variable pay, sometimes higher base but fewer benefits
   • Government/municipal jobs: stable hours, pensions, but slower wage growth
4. Overtime & Emergency Calls:
   Many plumbers earn 1.5x base rate for overtime and double-time for weekend or holiday emergency calls—boosting annual income significantly.

Journeyman vs. Apprentice vs. Master Plumber Pay

Understanding the full career ladder helps contextualize journeyman earnings:

Becoming a master plumber typically requires 2+ additional years of experience and passing another exam—but it opens doors to six-figure incomes, especially for business owners.

How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Journeyman Plumber

Want to move toward the top of that pay scale? Here’s how:

1. Get Certified in High-Demand Areas
   • EPA 608 Certification (for handling refrigerants in HVAC-plumbing crossover roles)
   • Backflow prevention certification
   • Medical gas piping (ASSE 6010)
2. Join a Union
   Unions like the United Association (UA) offer transparent wage progression, health benefits, and retirement plans.
3. Work in Commercial or Industrial Settings
   These projects often pay more than residential work due to complexity and safety requirements.
4. Track Overtime Opportunities
   A journeyman working 10 hrs/week of overtime at $40/hour can add $20,800/year to their income.
5. Consider Relocation
   Moving to a high-wage state (like Alaska or Illinois) can increase earnings by 20–40%.

FAQ: Journeyman Plumber Hourly Pay

Q1: Do journeyman plumbers get paid hourly or salary?
Most are paid hourly, especially when employed by contractors or unions. Some may receive a salary if working in facility maintenance or government roles, but hourly is standard.

Q2: Can a journeyman plumber make $100,000 a year?
Yes—especially with overtime, bonuses, or in high-cost states. At $40/hour with 2,080 annual hours (full-time), that’s $83,200. Add 500 overtime hours at $60/hour, and you hit $113,200.

Q3: Are plumbing wages expected to rise in 2025–2026?
Yes. The BLS projects 5% job growth for plumbers through 2032, faster than average. Labor shortages and infrastructure investments (like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) are driving wage increases.

Q4: What’s the difference between union and non-union journeyman pay?
Union journeymen typically earn $5–$10/hour more, plus health insurance, pension contributions, and paid training. Non-union roles may offer flexibility but less job security.

Q5: Do journeyman plumbers get benefits?
Union and full-time employees usually receive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Self-employed or contract plumbers must secure benefits independently.

Q6: How long does it take to become a journeyman plumber?
Most apprenticeships last 4–5 years, requiring 8,000–10,000 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction.

Conclusion

So, how much does a journeyman plumber make per hour? The honest answer: anywhere from $25 to $45+, depending on where you live, your experience, and your choices. But one thing’s clear—plumbing remains one of the most reliable, well-paid skilled trades in America, with strong upward mobility.

If you’re considering this career path, you’re investing in a future with job security, competitive pay, and real-world impact. And if you’re already a journeyman, use this data to negotiate your worth or plan your next career move.

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