Thinking about becoming a plumber in Canada—or just wondering if it pays well? You’re not alone. With rising demand for skilled trades and ongoing housing construction, many are asking: How much does a plumber earn in Canada? Whether you’re a student, a career switcher, or an immigrant exploring job options, this guide breaks down real earnings, regional variations, and future growth—so you can make an informed decision.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Canada in 2025?
According to the latest data from Job Bank Canada (Government of Canada’s official labor market site), the median hourly wage for plumbers across Canada in 2025 is $32.50 CAD. This translates to approximately:
- $2,600–$3,200 per month (full-time)
- $63,000–$78,000 annually
However, earnings can vary widely based on experience, location, and employment type (self-employed vs. union vs. private contractor).
💡 Pro Tip: Entry-level plumbers typically start around $22–$26/hour, while master plumbers with 10+ years of experience can earn $40–$55/hour—especially in high-demand provinces.
How Do Plumber Salaries Compare Across Canadian Provinces?
Location significantly impacts plumbing income. Here’s a quick comparison of average annual salaries by province (2025 estimates):
| Province/Territory | Avg. Annual Salary (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $82,000 | High oil/gas & construction demand |
| British Columbia | $77,500 | Strong housing market in Vancouver/Victoria |
| Ontario | $74,000 | Consistent demand in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton |
| Saskatchewan | $71,000 | Growing infrastructure projects |
| Quebec | $68,000 | Lower due to language & licensing barriers |
| Nova Scotia | $65,000 | Moderate demand, but rising with housing boom |
⚠️ Note: Salaries in Northern Territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut) can exceed $90,000/year due to remote work premiums—but living costs are also significantly higher.
For more on trade classifications in Canada, see Plumber on Wikipedia, which outlines global and Canadian trade standards.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings in Canada?
Not all plumbers earn the same—and that’s by design. Several key variables affect income:
1. Certification Level
- Apprentice: $18–$26/hour (while training)
- Journeyperson: $28–$40/hour (licensed to work independently)
- Master Plumber: $40–$55+/hour (can own a business, train others)
Becoming a Red Seal plumber (nationally recognized certification) boosts mobility and pay by up to 15%.
2. Employment Type
- Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Canada): often earn 10–20% more with benefits.
- Self-employed: Higher earning potential but variable income and no employer benefits.
- Emergency/on-call plumbers: Can charge 1.5x–2x standard rates after hours.
3. Specialization
Plumbers with niche skills earn more:
- Commercial plumbing: +12% premium
- Gas fitting certification: +18% average boost
- Green plumbing (water-efficient systems): growing niche with government incentives
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income in Canada
Want to earn more as a plumber? Follow this proven roadmap:
- Complete a 4-year apprenticeship (typically 1560 hours of in-school training + 6,000+ on-the-job hours).
- Pass the provincial journeyperson exam to get licensed.
- Obtain Red Seal endorsement (write the interprovincial exam).
- Add certifications: Gas fitting, backflow prevention, or HVAC basics.
- Work in high-demand regions (e.g., Calgary, Edmonton, Surrey).
- Start your own business after 5+ years—top earners run small teams charging $125–$175/hour.
Example: A Red Seal plumber in Edmonton with gas certification averages $89,000/year—and many exceed $100K with side contracts.
Pros vs. Cons of a Plumbing Career in Canada
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stable, recession-resistant job | ❌ Physically demanding work |
| ✅ No student debt (vs. university degrees) | ❌ May work weekends/emergencies |
| ✅ Clear career progression | ❌ Licensing process takes 3–5 years |
| ✅ High demand + immigration pathways | ❌ Weather-dependent in some regions |
Despite the challenges, 92% of Canadian plumbers report job satisfaction (2024 Trades Canada Survey), citing autonomy, good pay, and tangible results.
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Earn in Canada?
Q1: Do plumbers in Canada make six figures?
Yes—top earners do. Master plumbers in Alberta or BC who own businesses or specialize in commercial/emergency work often earn $100,000–$130,000 annually. However, the average is around $70,000–$80,000.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers earn?
Apprentices typically earn 50–70% of a journeyperson’s wage, starting at $18–$22/hour in Year 1 and rising to $26–$30/hour by Year 4.
Q3: Is plumbing a good career for immigrants in Canada?
Absolutely. Plumbing is listed under National Occupational Classification (NOC) 72300, which qualifies for several immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Many provinces also offer bridging programs for internationally trained plumbers.
Q4: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Canada?
It usually takes 4 years of apprenticeship (combining classroom and on-site work), followed by a provincial certification exam. The Red Seal adds 1–2 months of prep.
Q5: Are plumbers in demand in Canada?
Yes—critically. Canada faces a shortage of over 50,000 skilled tradespeople by 2028 (Canadian Apprenticeship Forum). Plumbers have a “high” demand rating in every province, with Job Bank Canada projecting strong job growth until 2030.
Q6: Can I make more as a self-employed plumber?
Potentially—yes. While you handle taxes, insurance, and marketing, successful solo plumbers charge $90–$150/hour and earn $80,000–$120,000/year after expenses. However, income is less predictable than salaried roles.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber earn in Canada? The answer ranges from $45,000 for beginners to over $100,000 for experienced, certified professionals—with location, credentials, and business acumen playing major roles. With high demand, job security, and clear advancement paths, plumbing remains one of Canada’s most rewarding skilled trades.
If you’re considering this career—or advising someone who is—now is an excellent time to start.
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