Thinking about a career in plumbing but unsure what to expect financially as a beginner? You’re not alone. Many aspiring tradespeople ask, “How much does a plumber apprentice make a year?”—and for good reason. Knowing your potential earnings during training can help you plan your budget, evaluate trade school options, and set realistic financial goals. In this guide, we’ll break down the facts, figures, and factors that impact apprentice plumber salaries across the U.S.—so you can start your plumbing journey with confidence.
What Is a Plumber Apprentice?
Before diving into salary details, let’s clarify what a plumbing apprentice actually does. A plumber apprentice is someone who learns the trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, typically under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber.
Apprenticeships usually last 4 to 5 years and are often sponsored by trade unions (like the United Association), vocational schools, or private plumbing contractors. As an apprentice, you’ll assist with installations, repairs, and maintenance while gradually taking on more complex tasks as your skills grow.
💡 Did you know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), plumbing is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, with over 48,000 openings expected each year due to retirements and industry demand.
Average Plumber Apprentice Salary in the U.S.
So, how much does a plumber apprentice make a year? The answer varies—but here’s a reliable baseline:
- National Average Hourly Wage: $16–$22 per hour
- Annual Earnings (Full-Time): $33,000 to $46,000
These figures come from aggregated data across sources like the BLS, ZipRecruiter, and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship.gov portal (2024–2025 reports).
Keep in mind: apprentices typically start at 40–50% of a journeyman plumber’s wage, with incremental raises (often every 6–12 months) as they complete training milestones.
How Apprenticeship Pay Progresses Over Time
One of the great perks of plumbing apprenticeships is the structured pay scale. Unlike many entry-level jobs, your salary increases predictably as you gain experience.
Here’s a typical 5-year plumbing apprentice pay progression:
| Year | % of Journeyman Wage | Avg. Hourly Rate | Est. Annual Pay (2,080 hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 40–50% | $14–$17 | $29,000–$35,000 |
| 2 | 50–60% | $17–$20 | $35,000–$42,000 |
| 3 | 60–70% | $20–$24 | $42,000–$50,000 |
| 4 | 70–80% | $24–$28 | $50,000–$58,000 |
| 5 | 80–90% | $28–$32+ | $58,000–$66,000+ |
⚠️ Note: Top-tier metropolitan areas (e.g., San Francisco, New York, Seattle) often pay above these averages due to higher cost of living and union influence.
What Factors Affect a Plumber Apprentice’s Salary?
Your exact earnings depend on several key variables:
- Location: Apprentices in Alaska, Illinois, or Massachusetts often earn 20–30% more than those in rural Southern states.
- Union vs. Non-Union: Union apprentices (e.g., through UA Local unions) usually receive higher starting wages, better benefits, and structured raises.
- Employer Type: Commercial plumbing firms may pay more than small residential contractors.
- Overtime: Many plumbing jobs include time-and-a-half for weekend or emergency calls—boosting annual income significantly.
- Certifications: Earning OSHA-10, backflow prevention, or green plumbing certs can lead to bonus pay or faster advancement.
For perspective, a plumbing apprentice in Chicago might earn $22/hour in Year 2, while someone in Birmingham, AL earns $16/hour for the same role.
Benefits Beyond the Paycheck
While salary matters, don’t overlook the non-monetary value of a plumbing apprenticeship:
- Zero student debt: Most apprenticeships cost nothing—employers often cover training fees.
- Health insurance & retirement: Union programs frequently include medical, dental, and 401(k) contributions.
- Job security: Skilled trades are recession-resilient—plumbers are always in demand.
- Path to entrepreneurship: After licensure, many plumbers start their own businesses, earning $70K–$120K+ annually.
According to the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), 87% of plumbing apprentices complete their programs—a strong indicator of job satisfaction and career viability.
How to Maximize Your Apprentice Earnings
Want to earn toward the higher end of the salary range? Follow these proven steps:
- Join a Registered Apprenticeship Program
Look for programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor at Apprenticeship.gov. These offer wage protections and national recognition. - Seek Union Opportunities
Unions like the United Association (UA) provide industry-leading pay scales and benefits. Find a local chapter via UA.org. - Work Overtime When Possible
Many plumbing emergencies happen after hours—overtime can add $5K–$15K to your annual income. - Complete All Classroom Hours Promptly
Falling behind in theory can delay your pay increases. Stay on schedule! - Track Your Hours Meticulously
You need ~8,000 on-the-job hours to become a journeyman. Use a logbook or app to stay accurate.
🔗 For more on apprenticeship structures, see the Wikipedia page on apprenticeships in the United States, which outlines federal and state frameworks.
Plumbing Apprentice vs. Other Trade Apprentices: Pay Comparison
Wonder how plumbing stacks up against other trades? Here’s a quick comparison of average Year 1 apprentice wages:
| Trade | Avg. Hourly Wage (Year 1) |
|---|---|
| Plumbing | $16–$18 |
| Electrician | $15–$19 |
| HVAC Technician | $15–$17 |
| Carpentry | $14–$16 |
| Welding | $16–$20 |
Plumbing consistently ranks among the highest-paid skilled trades—especially when you factor in long-term earning potential after licensure.
FAQ Section
Q: Do plumber apprentices get paid weekly or biweekly?
A: Most employers pay weekly or biweekly, just like full-time staff. Payment schedules follow standard payroll cycles and are outlined in your apprenticeship agreement.
Q: Can you make six figures as a plumber apprentice?
A: No—not during the apprentice phase. However, once you become a licensed journeyman or master plumber (typically after 4–5 years), $70,000–$100,000+ annually is achievable, especially with overtime, specialization (e.g., medical gas), or business ownership.
Q: Are there signing bonuses for plumbing apprentices?
A: Some high-demand regions or contractors offer $1,000–$3,000 signing bonuses to attract new apprentices—especially in areas with labor shortages (e.g., parts of Texas, Florida, or the Pacific Northwest).
Q: How many hours do plumbing apprentices work per week?
A: Most work 40 hours/week on job sites, plus 1–2 evenings per month in classroom training. Overtime is common during busy seasons (spring/summer) or emergencies.
Q: Is plumbing apprenticeship income taxable?
A: Yes. Apprentice wages are fully taxable as earned income. However, some training-related expenses (e.g., tools, work boots) may be tax-deductible—consult a tax professional.
Q: What’s the highest-paying state for plumbing apprentices?
A: As of 2025, Alaska, Illinois, Hawaii, and Massachusetts report the highest average apprentice wages, often exceeding $22/hour by Year 3 due to union density and cost-of-living adjustments.
Conclusion
So—how much does a plumber apprentice make a year? While entry-level pay starts around $33,000, diligent apprentices can earn nearly $50,000 by their final year, all while gaining a debt-free, in-demand career skill. With structured raises, benefits, and a clear path to six-figure earnings, plumbing remains one of the smartest trades to enter in 2025.
If you’re considering this path, take the next step today: research local apprenticeship programs, connect with union reps, or shadow a plumber for a day. Your future self—with a stable, lucrative, and respected career—will thank you.
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