How Much Does a Plumber Get a Year? (2025 Salary Guide)

Thinking about a career in plumbing—or just wondering how much plumbers actually take home each year? You’re not alone. Many people are surprised to learn that plumbing isn’t just a reliable trade—it can also be a lucrative career. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much a plumber gets a year, including regional differences, experience levels, and specialty pay. Whether you’re considering trade school or just curious about skilled labor earnings, you’ll find clear, up-to-date answers here.

What Is the Average Annual Salary for a Plumber in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090 as of May 2023. But that’s just the midpoint—actual earnings can vary widely.

• Bottom 10%: Earn less than $37,000 per year
• Top 10%: Make over $100,000 annually

These numbers reflect full-time work. Many plumbers also earn overtime, especially during emergencies or peak seasons (like winter pipe bursts).

💡 Pro Tip: Self-employed plumbers often earn more—but also handle taxes, insurance, and marketing costs.

What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Yearly Income?

Not all plumbers earn the same. Your location, certifications, and work setting play huge roles.

1. Geographic Location

Plumbers in high-cost or high-demand states earn significantly more:

(Source: U.S. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics)

Urban areas like Chicago, New York, or Seattle often pay more due to higher living costs and denser infrastructure needs.

2. Experience Level

• Apprentice (0–2 years): $30,000–$45,000
• Journeyman (3–7 years): $45,000–$70,000
• Master Plumber (8+ years + license): $70,000–$110,000+

Becoming a master plumber typically requires passing state exams and logging thousands of supervised hours—worth it for the pay bump.

3. Specialization

Specialized plumbers often command premium rates:

• Commercial plumbers: Work on large buildings; average $75,000+
• Pipefitters/Steamfitters: Handle industrial systems; median $65,000+
• Green plumbing experts: Install water-saving tech; growing niche with higher hourly rates

For more on trade distinctions, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .

4. Employment Type

Many experienced plumbers start their own businesses after 5–10 years—and see income jump 20–40%.

How Do Overtime and Emergency Calls Affect Earnings?

Plumbing isn’t a strict 9-to-5 job. Emergency calls (e.g., burst pipes, gas leaks) often pay 1.5x–2x standard rates.

• A plumber charging $75/hour might earn $125/hour for a weekend emergency.
• During winter storms or heatwaves, demand spikes—and so do earnings.

Some plumbers report $1,200–$2,000/week during busy months, especially if they work 50–60 hours.

🛠️ Real Example: Mike D., a master plumber in Denver, earned $92,000 in 2024—$18,000 of that came from after-hours calls.

Is Plumbing a Good Career Financially?

Yes—especially long-term. Here’s why:

✅ Low student debt: Trade school costs $1,000–$15,000, vs. $30K+ for a 4-year degree
✅ High demand: The BLS projects 5% job growth (2022–2032)—faster than average
✅ Recession-resistant: People always need running water and functional toilets
✅ Entrepreneurial path: Many plumbers become business owners by age 35

Compared to many office jobs requiring degrees, plumbing offers faster ROI and hands-on satisfaction.

How Can a Plumber Increase Their Annual Income?

Want to boost your plumbing paycheck? Try these proven strategies:

1. Get licensed as a master plumber – unlocks higher-paying jobs and permits
2. Add certifications – e.g., backflow prevention, gas fitting, or green plumbing
3. Start a side business – offer drain cleaning, water heater installs, or video inspections
4. Work in commercial or industrial sectors – they pay 15–30% more on average
5. Optimize scheduling – reduce drive time between jobs to fit in more calls/day

One plumber in Texas increased his income by 35% in one year just by adding camera inspections (a $300 add-on per job).

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries

Q: Do plumbers really make six figures?

A: Yes—especially in high-cost states or with self-employment. The top 10% earn over $100,000/year, and many business-owning plumbers exceed that after 10+ years.

Q: How much does a beginner plumber make per year?

A: Apprentices typically earn $30,000–$45,000 while learning. Wages rise quickly with skill—many reach $50K+ by year three.

Q: Are plumbing salaries taxed differently?

A: No—but self-employed plumbers pay self-employment tax (15.3%) and must file quarterly. Always consult a tax pro.

Q: Do union plumbers earn more than non-union?

A: Often, yes—union plumbers get higher base pay, health benefits, and pensions. However, non-union self-employed plumbers may earn more net after deducting union dues.

Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?

A: Master plumbers in Alaska or Illinois working on industrial or high-rise projects often top $110,000–$130,000, especially with overtime.

Q: Can you make good money as a part-time plumber?

A: Yes! Many handymen or retirees do weekend plumbing gigs at $80–$120/hour, earning $20K–$40K/year extra with minimal time commitment.

Conclusion

So, how much does a plumber get a year? The answer ranges from $37,000 to over $100,000—depending on skill, location, and hustle. Plumbing offers one of the best combinations of low entry cost, high demand, and income potential in today’s job market.

If you’re considering this career, you’re looking at a stable, respected trade with real earning power. And if you’re just curious—you now know why plumbers often drive nicer trucks than accountants!

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Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (NAPHCC), industry salary surveys. Updated for 2025.