Thinking about a career in plumbing—or just wondering if it pays well? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, recession-resistant alternatives to traditional college paths. If you’ve ever asked, “How much does a plumber earn per month?”, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down real earnings, what affects pay, and how location, experience, and specialization can boost income—all based on the latest 2025 data.
What Is the Average Monthly Income for a Plumber in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 data—released in early 2025—the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $60,090.
That translates to:
- $5,007 per month (before taxes)
- $28.88 per hour (based on 40 hours/week)
But averages only tell part of the story. Some plumbers earn significantly more—especially in high-demand states or with specialized certifications.
💡 Pro Tip: Earnings can vary by $2,000–$4,000/month depending on whether you work for a company, run your own business, or specialize in commercial or emergency plumbing.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Monthly Pay?
Several key variables impact how much a plumber earns per month:
1. Geographic Location
Plumbers in urban areas or states with high costs of living often earn more. For example:
| State | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Monthly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $83,510 | $6,959 |
| Illinois | $75,250 | $6,271 |
| New York | $73,820 | $6,152 |
| Texas | $54,180 | $4,515 |
| Florida | $50,720 | $4,227 |
(Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024)
High-demand regions like California and Washington also offer premium rates due to strict building codes and frequent infrastructure needs.
2. Experience Level
- Apprentice (0–4 years): $18–$25/hour → ~$3,120/month
- Journeyman (4–8 years): $25–$35/hour → ~$4,300–$6,000/month
- Master Plumber (8+ years, licensed): $35–$50+/hour → $6,000–$8,700+/month
Master plumbers who own businesses can earn $10,000+ monthly after scaling operations.
3. Employment Type
- Company Employee: Steady paycheck, benefits, but capped overtime.
- Self-Employed: Higher earning potential, but must cover insurance, tools, and marketing.
- Union vs. Non-Union: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association) often earn 15–25% more, plus pensions and healthcare.
4. Specialization
Specialized skills = higher pay:
- Medical gas piping: +20% premium
- Green plumbing (water-saving systems): Growing demand in eco-conscious cities
- Emergency/24/7 services: Weekend or holiday calls can pay 2–3x standard rates
For more on plumbing roles and classifications, see the plumber profession overview on Wikipedia.
How Do Overtime and Seasonality Affect Monthly Earnings?
Plumbing isn’t always a 9-to-5 job. Many plumbers see peak income in winter (frozen/burst pipes) and summer (renovations, new construction).
- Overtime: Federal law requires time-and-a-half after 40 hours/week.
- Example: A journeyman earning $30/hour working 10 OT hours = $450 extra/week → +$1,800/month
- Emergency Calls: Some plumbers charge $150–$300/hour for after-hours service.
⚠️ Reality Check: Income can fluctuate. A slow month in spring might bring $4,000, while December (holiday plumbing disasters) could hit $8,000.
Apprentice vs. Master Plumber: Monthly Pay Comparison
| Career Stage | Avg. Hourly Rate | Avg. Monthly Earnings | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $18–$22 | $3,100–$3,800 | Training + mentorship |
| Journeyman | $25–$35 | $4,300–$6,000 | Full licensure, flexibility |
| Master Plumber | $35–$60+ | $6,000–$10,000+ | Business ownership, teaching opportunities |
Becoming a master plumber typically takes 4–8 years, including apprenticeship and passing state exams. But the ROI is strong—many recoup training costs within 2 years of full licensure.
Can You Make Six Figures as a Plumber?
Yes—absolutely. While the median plumber earns around $60k/year, top earners routinely exceed $100,000 annually ($8,300+/month). Here’s how:
- Own a plumbing business: Charge $100–$200/hour, manage a team, and scale service areas.
- Work in high-cost states: Alaska, New Jersey, and Massachusetts consistently report six-figure plumbing incomes.
- Offer niche services: Sewer line camera inspections, tankless water heater installs, or commercial HVAC-plumbing integration.
- Leverage digital marketing: A strong Google Business Profile and 5-star reviews can fill your schedule for weeks.
📈 Case Study: Marcus T., a master plumber in Chicago, launched his solo business in 2021. By 2024, he employed 3 technicians and averaged $11,500/month net profit after expenses.
FAQ Section
Q: How much does a plumber earn per month with no experience?
A: Entry-level apprentices typically earn $2,800–$3,800/month, depending on location and union affiliation. Most programs last 4–5 years while you learn on the job.
Q: Do plumbers get paid weekly or monthly?
A: Most employed plumbers receive biweekly paychecks. Self-employed plumbers manage their own cash flow—some invoice weekly, others monthly.
Q: Which state pays plumbers the most per month?
A: As of 2025, Alaska leads with an average monthly income of $6,959, followed by Illinois and New York. High demand and remote work conditions drive these premiums.
Q: Can a plumber earn more than a college graduate?
A: Often, yes. The average U.S. bachelor’s degree holder earns ~$59,000/year ($4,900/month). Skilled plumbers with 5+ years’ experience frequently surpass this—with no student debt.
Q: How much do self-employed plumbers make per month?
A: After 2–3 years in business, most earn $6,000–$12,000/month gross, though net profit depends on overhead (insurance, vehicle, marketing). Top 10% exceed $15,000/month.
Q: Are plumbing salaries expected to rise in 2025–2026?
A: Yes. The BLS projects 5% job growth (faster than average) through 2032, driven by aging infrastructure and new construction. Wage growth is expected to outpace inflation.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber earn per month? While the national average hovers around $5,000, your actual income depends on skill level, location, business model, and hustle. From stable $4,000 months as an apprentice to $10,000+ as a master business owner, plumbing offers one of the most accessible paths to a six-figure trade career—without a college degree.
If you’re considering this path (or just curious), know this: plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks—it’s about building financial security, one pipe at a time.
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Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC), United Association (UA) wage surveys.
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