How Much Does A Plumber Make A Year In Canada? Let’s Break It Down — Honestly
If you’re considering a career in plumbing — or maybe you’re just curious whether it’s worth the calluses and early mornings — you’ve come to the right place.
How much does a plumber make a year in Canada? It’s not just a number. It’s about stability, growth, and real earning potential in a trade that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a high school grad looking for a solid path, a career-changer, or even a parent researching options for your child, this guide gives you the real numbers — no fluff, no guesswork.
We’ve pulled data from government sources, industry surveys, and actual plumbers across Canada to give you a clear, up-to-date picture of what you can expect to earn — and how to earn more.
What’s the Average Annual Salary for a Plumber in Canada?
The short answer? $70,000–$90,000 per year for experienced, licensed plumbers.
But let’s get specific.
According to Statistics Canada and the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, the median annual salary for a plumber in 2024–2025 is $78,500. That’s before overtime, bonuses, or side jobs.
Source: Job Bank Canada (2025), Indeed Canada, PayScale
💡 Fun fact: In cities like Calgary and Vancouver, where housing demand is high and labor shortages persist, top plumbers can earn over $120,000 with overtime and emergency call-outs.
Do Plumbers Earn More in Certain Provinces?
Yes. And this matters a lot.
Canada’s plumbing pay varies dramatically by province — largely due to cost of living, housing growth, and union presence.
Here’s how salaries stack up across major provinces in 2025:
Alberta
$92,000 – $115,000
High oil/gas industry demand + remote job sites = premium pay
British Columbia
$88,000 – $105,000
Housing boom in Vancouver & Victoria + strict licensing
Ontario
$80,000 – $95,000
Largest population = most jobs, but high competition
Saskatchewan
$85,000 – $100,000
Shortage of skilled trades = employers bidding for workers
Quebec
$70,000 – $85,000
Lower cost of living, but strong union protections
Atlantic Canada
$65,000 – $80,000
Smaller markets, but lower living costs balance it out
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re flexible about location, moving to Alberta or BC can boost your income by 20–30% compared to Atlantic Canada — even after accounting for housing.
How Do Plumbers Get Paid? Hourly, Salary, or Project-Based?
Most plumbers in Canada are paid hourly, especially when working for a company. But here’s where it gets interesting:
Hourly Workers: $30–$50/hour is standard. Overtime kicks in after 8 hours/day or 44 hours/week (varies by province).
Salaried Plumbers: Often employed by large firms or municipalities. Usually $70K–$90K/year with benefits.
Self-Employed / Contractors: Can earn much more — but also pay for tools, insurance, taxes, and marketing. Many make $100K–$150K+, especially with a strong client base.
✅ Real Example: Maria, a plumber in Edmonton, works 50–60 hours/week during winter (when pipes burst). She charges $65/hour for emergency calls after 6 PM. Last year, she made $132,000 — including 18 weekend jobs.
Bonus Potential:
Emergency call-outs: +$50–$150 per job
Seasonal bonuses (spring/fall): $1,000–$5,000
Referral bonuses: $100–$300 per new client
Tool stipends: Up to $1,000/year from employers
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Canada? Pros vs. Cons
Let’s cut through the noise. Here’s the honest truth:
✅High demand— 1 in 4 plumbers will retire by 2030 (Job Bank)
❌ Physically demanding — lifting, kneeling, crawling in tight spaces
✅No student debt— apprenticeships pay you while you learn
❌ Irregular hours — emergencies don’t wait for Monday–Friday
✅Job security— water and pipes never go out of style
❌ Initial pay is low — first year apprentices earn $15–$20/hour
✅Earn while you learn— apprenticeships are paid, no tuition
❌ Licensing takes 4–5 years (apprenticeship + exams)
✅Path to ownership— many become business owners
❌ Weather-dependent — winter = busy, summer = slower (in some regions)
🧠 “Plumbing isn’t glamorous — but it’s reliable. You’ll never be replaced by a robot.” — James T., Master Plumber, Toronto (18 years in the trade)*
How to Become a Plumber in Canada (Step-by-Step)
If you’re serious about this career, here’s your roadmap:
Finish High School (or equivalent) — Math and science help, but aren’t mandatory.
Find an Apprenticeship — Apply through your province’s apprenticeship office (e.g., Ontario Apprenticeship ).
Complete 4–5 Years — 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training + 8–12 weeks of classroom instruction per year.
Pass the Certification Exam — Administered by your provincial trade authority (e.g., TSSA in Ontario, ASTTBC in BC).
Get Licensed — You can’t legally work independently without a license.
Upgrade to Master Plumber (Optional): 2+ years as a licensed plumber + extra exams. Allows you to pull permits and run your own business.
💬 “I started at $16/hour. Four years later, I was making $45/hour. Now I own my company. It took time — but every hour was worth it.” — Derek L., Ottawa-based plumbing owner*
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Plumbing Salaries in Canada
Q1: Is plumbing a good career in Canada in 2025?
Absolutely. With aging infrastructure, new housing construction, and a shortage of skilled workers, plumbers are in high demand. The Government of Canada lists plumbing as a “National Occupational Classification (NOC) 7251” — a priority trade for immigration and job placement.
Q2: Do plumbers make more than electricians in Canada?
About the same. Electricians average $75,000–$95,000/year. Plumbers earn slightly more in provinces with cold winters (like Alberta) due to frequent pipe emergencies. Both trades offer similar growth paths.
Yes — and it’s one of the most accessible paths. Programs like the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and provincial nominee programs actively recruit licensed plumbers. You’ll need your credentials assessed (via WES or similar) and must pass Canadian licensing exams.
Q4: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
Typically 4 to 5 years. This includes 8,000+ hours of hands-on work under a licensed master plumber, plus classroom training. Some provinces allow you to start earning after 2 years as a junior apprentice.
Q5: Do plumbers get benefits?
If you work for a company — yes. Most offer health insurance, RRSP matching, paid vacation (2–4 weeks), and tool allowances. Self-employed plumbers must buy their own insurance, but they can deduct business expenses on taxes.
Q6: Is plumbing recession-proof?
Yes. Even during economic downturns, people still need working toilets, showers, and water systems. Plumbing is among the top 5 most recession-resistant trades in Canada, according to the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum.
Final Thoughts: Is $80K+ a Year Worth It?
Let’s be real: plumbing isn’t for everyone. It’s muddy, loud, and sometimes gross. But if you like solving problems with your hands, value independence, and hate the idea of being stuck in a cubicle — this is one of the best career paths in Canada today.
You don’t need a $60,000 university degree to earn $80,000–$120,000 a year. You just need grit, a willingness to learn, and the courage to pick up a wrench.
And here’s the best part: you start getting paid from day one.
Share This With Someone Who Needs to Hear It
If you know a student, a parent, or a friend wondering what to do after high school — send them this article. Plumbing isn’t just a job. It’s a lifeline to financial freedom — without the debt.
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