How Much Does a Plumber Make a Week? (2024 Breakdown)

Thinking about becoming a plumber—or just wondering if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. If you’ve ever asked, “How much does a plumber make a week?”, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down real earnings, regional differences, and what actually drives a plumber’s paycheck—so you can make informed decisions about your future or your next home service hire.

What Is the Average Weekly 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.

To answer your core question directly:

The average plumber in the U.S. earns approximately $1,155 per week (based on 52 weeks of work).

But this number can vary significantly based on experience, location, and employment type. Let’s dig deeper.

How Do Location and Cost of Living Affect a Plumber’s Weekly Pay?

Where you work dramatically impacts your take-home pay. For example:

Source: U.S. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023

Plumbers in high-cost states like Alaska or Illinois often earn 30–50% more than the national average—not just because of demand, but due to harsh working conditions, union influence, and local licensing requirements.

💡 Pro Tip: Urban areas (e.g., Chicago, Seattle, Boston) typically offer higher wages than rural towns, but always factor in housing and transportation costs.

Experience Level: How Much More Do Senior Plumbers Earn Weekly?

Experience is a major earnings multiplier in the plumbing trade:

• Apprentice (0–2 years): $15–$20/hour → $600–$800/week
• Journeyman (3–7 years): $25–$35/hour → $1,000–$1,400/week
• Master Plumber (8+ years, licensed): $40–$75+/hour → $1,600–$3,000+/week

Many master plumbers run their own businesses, allowing them to charge premium rates—especially for emergency services (e.g., burst pipes at 2 a.m.).

“After getting my master license, my weekly income doubled within a year,” says Marcus T., a licensed plumber in Denver with 12 years of experience.

Self-Employed vs. Employed Plumbers: Who Earns More Per Week?

This is a common dilemma. Let’s compare:

Self-employed plumbers often earn more per hour, but they also handle taxes, scheduling, and customer service. According to a 2023 survey by HomeAdvisor, 68% of independent plumbers net over $70,000 annually—translating to $1,350+ per week after expenses.

⚠️ Note: Self-employment requires strong business acumen. Many new solo plumbers underestimate administrative demands.

What Factors Can Boost a Plumber’s Weekly Income?

Beyond location and experience, these elements significantly increase weekly earnings:

1. Specialized Skills:
   • Gas line installation
   • Commercial plumbing
   • Green plumbing (water-saving systems)
     These niches command 20–40% higher hourly rates.
2. Overtime & Emergency Calls:
   Weekend or after-hours work often pays 1.5x to 2x standard rates.
3. Union Membership:
   Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association ) typically earn 15–25% more than non-union peers.
4. Certifications:
   EPA certification for handling refrigerants or backflow prevention devices can open higher-paying contracts.

For more on trade certifications, see the plumbing profession overview on Wikipedia .

Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Weekly Plumbing Income

If you’re already in the trade or planning to join, follow these actionable steps:

1. Complete an Apprenticeship (4–5 years): Combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
2. Get Licensed: Requirements vary by state—check your local plumbing board.
3. Pursue Master Plumber Status: Usually requires 2+ years as a journeyman + exam.
4. Add High-Demand Services: Learn drain cleaning with hydro-jetting or tankless water heater installation.
5. Track Every Hour: Use apps like Jobber or Housecall Pro to bill accurately and reduce unpaid time.
6. Ask for Reviews: A 4.8+ rating on Google can justify 10–15% higher rates.

Real-world example: Sarah L. in Austin added video pipe inspections to her services. Her weekly income rose from $1,200 to $1,900 in 6 months.

FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Weekly Earnings

Q1: Do plumbers really make six figures?

A: Yes—especially master plumbers in high-demand areas. The top 10% of earners (per BLS) make over $103,000 annually, or $1,980+ per week. Business owners with multiple crews can exceed $150,000.

Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make weekly?

A: Most apprentices start at $15–$20/hour, working 30–40 hours/week. That’s $450–$800 weekly, with raises every 6–12 months as skills improve.

Q3: Are plumbing jobs recession-proof?

A: Largely, yes. People always need running water and functioning toilets. During economic downturns, residential repair work may dip slightly, but infrastructure and commercial projects often remain stable.

Q4: What’s the highest-paying plumbing specialty?

A: Commercial and industrial plumbing—especially in sectors like oil & gas, hospitals, or data centers—pays the most. These roles often require additional safety training but can exceed $50/hour.

Q5: How many hours do plumbers work per week?

A: Most work 40–50 hours/week. Self-employed plumbers may work 55+ hours during peak seasons (spring/summer). Overtime is common during emergencies.

Q6: Can you make good money as a part-time plumber?

A: Yes, especially for side gigs. Many handymen or retirees do weekend plumbing repairs, earning $30–$50/hour. However, full licensing is usually required for legal compliance.

Conclusion

So, how much does a plumber make a week? The honest answer: Anywhere from $600 to over $3,000, depending on skill, location, and hustle. Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaks—it’s a dynamic, recession-resistant career with serious income potential, especially as the U.S. faces a growing shortage of skilled tradespeople.

Whether you’re considering this path or hiring a pro, understanding real earnings helps you plan smarter.

👉 Found this helpful? Share it with someone exploring a trade career!
💬 Tag a future plumber on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn—and help spread the word about high-opportunity blue-collar jobs.

Data sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), HomeAdvisor Contractor Survey, United Association (UA).