Thinking about becoming a plumber in Minnesota—or just curious if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. Many Minnesotans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much a plumber makes a year in Minnesota, including factors that affect earnings, regional pay differences, and what you can expect at every career stage. Whether you’re fresh out of trade school or eyeing a master license, this data-driven breakdown has you covered.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Minnesota?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024 data, the average annual wage for plumbers in Minnesota is $63,870. That’s slightly above the national average of $61,550. On an hourly basis, plumbers in the state earn about $30.71 per hour.
But averages only tell part of the story. Your actual income depends heavily on experience, location within the state, union membership, and whether you work for a company or run your own business.
💡 Pro Tip: Entry-level plumbers typically start around $45,000–$50,000/year, while experienced or master plumbers can earn $80,000+, especially in high-demand metro areas like Minneapolis or St. Paul.
How Do Salaries Vary by Experience Level?
Plumbing is a tiered profession. Most states—including Minnesota—require apprenticeship, journeyman, and master licensure stages. Each level comes with higher earning potential.
Apprentices usually earn 40–60% of a journeyman’s wage while completing 4–5 years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Once licensed as a journeyman, your income jumps significantly. Master plumbers—who can design systems, pull permits, and run their own businesses—command the highest rates.
📌 Note: Minnesota requires all plumbers to be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Operating without a license is illegal and can result in fines.
Which Minnesota Cities Pay Plumbers the Most?
Location matters. Urban centers with higher costs of living—and greater demand for plumbing services—typically offer higher wages.
Here’s a snapshot of average plumber salaries across key Minnesota regions (2024 BLS data):
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington: $68,200/year
Duluth: $61,500/year
Rochester: $60,900/year
St. Cloud: $58,300/year
Mankato: $56,700/year
The Twin Cities metro consistently leads due to dense residential and commercial construction, aging infrastructure, and seasonal demand (e.g., frozen pipe repairs in winter).
❄️ Seasonal Insight: Winter months often bring emergency calls for burst pipes, giving self-employed plumbers a chance to earn overtime or premium rates.
Union vs. Non-Union Plumber Salaries in Minnesota
Joining a union can significantly boost your earnings and benefits. In Minnesota, many plumbers belong to UA Local 34 (United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters), which negotiates wages, health insurance, and retirement plans.
Union journeymen in the Twin Cities often earn $40–$45/hour plus full benefits.
Non-union plumbers may make less upfront but could earn more through side gigs or entrepreneurship.
However, union roles may have less scheduling flexibility and require dues (typically 2–4% of gross pay).
⚖️ Trade-off: Union = stability + benefits. Non-union = flexibility + potential for higher net income if you manage your business well.
Can You Earn More as a Self-Employed Plumber?
Absolutely—if you’re willing to handle marketing, scheduling, and customer service. According to industry reports, self-employed plumbers in Minnesota charge $75–$150/hour for standard services, with emergency calls going as high as $250/hour.
Let’s do the math:
Working 35 billable hours/week at $100/hour = $182,000/year gross
After expenses (vehicle, insurance, tools, taxes), net income often lands between $70,000–$110,000
But success requires strong business acumen. Many solo plumbers start part-time while employed to build a client base.
🔧 Startup Tip: Begin with a niche—like water heater installation or drain cleaning—to stand out in local search results (great for SEO and word-of-mouth referrals).
What’s the Job Outlook for Plumbers in Minnesota?
Excellent. The BLS projects 11% job growth for plumbers nationwide from 2024–2034, faster than average. In Minnesota, aging infrastructure, new housing developments, and stricter plumbing codes are driving demand.
Additionally, nearly 20% of current plumbers in Minnesota are over 55, signaling a wave of retirements—and opportunities for newcomers.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Minnesota (Step-by-Step)
Want to start earning? Here’s the official path:
Complete a High School Diploma or GED Focus on math, physics, and shop classes.
Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Register with a state-approved program (e.g., through a trade school or union). Programs last 4–5 years and include 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training.
Pass the Journeyman Exam Administered by the Minnesota DLI. Covers code, safety, and practical knowledge.
Work as a Journeyman for 2+ Years Gain experience under a master plumber.
Apply for Master Plumber License Requires passing a more advanced exam and proving project experience.
Total timeline: 5–7 years from start to master status.
🛠️ Cost Note: Apprenticeships are often paid. Trade school programs cost $5,000–$15,000 but may be offset by grants or employer sponsorship.
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Make a Year in Minnesota?
Q1: Do plumbers in rural Minnesota earn less than in cities?
Yes. Rural areas like Bemidji or Worthington typically pay 10–20% less due to lower demand and fewer commercial projects. However, competition is also lower, making it easier to build a loyal client base.
Q2: Are overtime hours common for plumbers in Minnesota?
Very. Emergency calls (especially in winter) and weekend availability can add 10–15 hours/week of overtime. Many employers pay 1.5x regular rates after 40 hours.
Q3: Can women succeed as plumbers in Minnesota?
Absolutely. While only ~3% of U.S. plumbers are women, Minnesota trade schools and unions actively encourage diversity. Female plumbers report high job satisfaction and strong client trust.
Q4: What’s the highest-paying plumbing specialty in Minnesota?
Medical gas installation, commercial plumbing, and green plumbing (e.g., tankless water heaters, greywater systems) often pay 15–30% more due to specialized certifications.
Q5: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?
No. A high school diploma and state-approved apprenticeship are sufficient. Many successful plumbers never attend college.
Q6: How does inflation affect plumber salaries in Minnesota?
Plumbers are somewhat insulated. As material and labor costs rise, service rates increase accordingly. Skilled trades often see wage adjustments faster than salaried office jobs.
Conclusion
So,how much does a plumber make a year in Minnesota? Realistically, anywhere from $45,000 as a beginner to over $95,000 as a master—with entrepreneurial plumbers potentially earning six figures. With strong job growth, low student debt (compared to college grads), and essential-worker status, plumbing remains one of Minnesota’s most reliable and rewarding careers.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career—or tag a future plumber in your life! 💧🔧 Follow us for more state-by-state salary guides and skilled trade insights.
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