Thinking about becoming a licensed plumber—or just wondering if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. Many people are drawn to plumbing for its stability, hands-on work, and strong earning potential. But the real question on everyone’s mind is: how much does a licensed plumber make a year? In this guide, we’ll break down the latest data, regional differences, and factors that can significantly boost (or limit) your income in this skilled trade.
What Is the Average Salary for a Licensed Plumber in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2023, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $60,090. That translates to about $28.89 per hour.
But here’s the key: “median” means half earn more, and half earn less. Top-tier licensed plumbers—especially those in high-demand areas or with specialized skills—can earn well over $90,000 per year, with some even surpassing $100,000.
💡 Pro Tip: Your income isn’t just about showing up with a wrench. Certification level, experience, location, and business model (employee vs. self-employed) all play major roles.
How Does Location Affect a Plumber’s Salary?
Where you work dramatically impacts your paycheck. Plumbing demand—and cost of living—varies widely across states. Here’s a snapshot of the top 5 highest-paying states for licensed plumbers (BLS 2023 data):
| Alaska | $87,390 |
| Illinois | $85,530 |
| Massachusetts | $84,320 |
| New Jersey | $83,110 |
| Hawaii | $82,880 |
In contrast, states like Mississippi and Arkansas report average salaries closer to $45,000–$50,000.
Why the difference?
- Urban areas often have higher labor costs and more complex infrastructure.
- States with strict licensing requirements (like California or New York) tend to pay more due to limited supply of qualified professionals.
- Seasonal demand (e.g., frozen pipes in cold climates) can drive up emergency service rates.
For more on regional trade regulations, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .
What Factors Influence a Licensed Plumber’s Earnings?
Your annual income isn’t set in stone. Several controllable factors can help you climb the pay ladder:
1. Experience Level
- Entry-level (0–2 years): $40,000–$50,000
- Mid-career (3–7 years): $55,000–$70,000
- Experienced (8+ years): $75,000–$100,000+
2. Specialization
Plumbers who specialize often earn more:
- Commercial plumbing: Working on large buildings or industrial sites
- Medical gas piping: Requires additional certification
- Green plumbing: Expertise in water-efficient systems and sustainability
3. Self-Employment vs. W-2 Employment
- W-2 employees enjoy steady pay and benefits but capped earnings.
- Self-employed plumbers can charge premium rates (especially for after-hours or emergency calls) but must cover overhead like insurance, tools, and marketing.
📊 Real-World Example: A solo plumber in Austin, Texas, reported earning $112,000 in 2023 by focusing on same-day residential repairs and offering weekend availability—services many larger companies don’t provide.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed: Does Certification Really Pay Off?
Absolutely. In most U.S. states, you cannot legally perform plumbing work without a license—especially for jobs involving gas lines, sewage, or new construction. But beyond legality, licensing boosts your credibility and income:
- Licensed plumbers earn 20–30% more on average than unlicensed handymen doing similar tasks.
- Homeowners and contractors prefer licensed pros for liability and warranty reasons.
- Licensing often requires passing exams on local codes, safety, and system design—skills that justify higher rates.
⚠️ Warning: Working without a license can result in fines, lawsuits, or being barred from future licensing.
How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income: 5 Actionable Steps
Want to push your earnings toward the top 10%? Follow this roadmap:
- Get Your Journeyman & Master License
Start with a journeyman license (typically after 2–5 years of apprenticeship), then pursue a master plumber license. Each step unlocks higher-paying jobs and supervisory roles. - Add High-Demand Certifications
Consider certifications in:- Backflow prevention
- EPA Section 608 (for HVAC-related plumbing)
- OSHA safety compliance
- Work in High-Pay Niches
Focus on emergency services, luxury home installations, or commercial retrofits—clients here pay premiums for speed and expertise. - Go Mobile & Digital
Use scheduling apps, accept digital payments, and collect online reviews. A strong Google Business Profile can increase job leads by 40%+. - Start Your Own Business (Eventually)
Once you have a client base and reputation, launching your own plumbing company lets you keep 100% of profits—minus expenses, of course.
Licensed Plumber Salary: Full-Time vs. Part-Time vs. Overtime
Many plumbers boost income through flexible scheduling:
- Full-time (40 hrs/week): Standard path; steady income with benefits if employed.
- Part-time: Common during apprenticeship or semi-retirement; averages $25,000–$40,000/year.
- Overtime & Emergency Calls: These can double your hourly rate. Many plumbers charge $100–$150/hour for nights, weekends, or holidays.
💰 Example: A plumber working 10 overtime hours/week at $75/hour adds $39,000/year to their base salary.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Q: Do plumbers really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially in high-cost states or if self-employed. Top 10% earners made $105,530 or more in 2023 (BLS). With smart pricing and consistent demand, $100K+ is achievable.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
A: Typically 4–5 years, including a 2,000–8,000-hour apprenticeship plus passing state exams. Some states offer accelerated paths for military veterans or related tradespeople.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in 2024?
A: Absolutely. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, but demand is actually higher due to aging infrastructure, new construction, and a shortage of skilled tradespeople. Plus, plumbing can’t be outsourced or automated easily.
Q: What’s the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter?
A: Plumbers focus on water, waste, and gas systems in homes/buildings. Pipefitters work with high-pressure systems (like steam or chemicals) in industrial settings—and often earn more due to complexity and risk.
Q: Can I make more money as a plumbing contractor?
A: Yes—if you’re ready to manage teams, handle permits, and market your business. General plumbing contractors average $75,000–$130,000/year, depending on region and scale.
Q: Are plumbing salaries expected to rise?
A: Yes. With labor shortages and rising construction costs, wages are projected to increase 3–5% annually through 2027, according to industry reports from NAHB and PHCC.
Conclusion: A Lucrative, Future-Proof Career
So, how much does a licensed plumber make a year? The answer ranges from $50,000 to over $100,000—and your exact number depends on choices you control: where you work, how you specialize, and whether you build your own brand.
Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks; it’s a skilled, respected profession with real financial upside, job security, and the satisfaction of solving real-world problems every day.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career! Whether on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Reddit’s r/Trades, your share could inspire the next generation of licensed plumbers.
Got questions about licensing in your state or how to start an apprenticeship? Drop a comment below—we’re happy to help!
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