Thinking about becoming a plumber in Canada—or just curious how much they really earn per hour? You’re not alone. With skilled trades gaining more attention as stable, well-paying careers, “How much does a plumber make an hour in Canada?” is one of the most searched questions by job seekers, apprentices, and even career changers. In this guide, we’ll break down real earnings, regional differences, and what factors actually influence a plumber’s paycheck—so you get clear, actionable answers.
What Is the Average Hourly Wage for Plumbers in Canada?
According to the latest data from Job Bank Canada (2025) and Statistics Canada, the average hourly wage for a licensed plumber in Canada ranges from $28 to $45 CAD. However, this number can vary significantly based on experience, location, and employment type.
- Entry-level plumbers (0–2 years): $22–$30/hour
- Mid-career (3–7 years): $30–$40/hour
- Experienced or master plumbers (8+ years): $40–$60+/hour
Self-employed plumbers often charge $75–$150/hour to clients, but after expenses (vehicle, insurance, tools, taxes), their net hourly income typically aligns with or slightly exceeds that of employed plumbers.
💡 Fun fact: Plumbing is consistently ranked among Canada’s top 10 highest-paying skilled trades, according to the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum.
How Do Wages Vary by Province?
Plumber salaries differ across provinces due to cost of living, demand for services, and local labor markets. Here’s a snapshot of 2025 average hourly wages by region:
| Province/Territory | Avg. Hourly Wage (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $38 – $52 | High demand in oil/gas regions; strong union presence |
| British Columbia | $35 – $48 | Urban centers like Vancouver pay more |
| Ontario | $32 – $45 | Toronto and Ottawa offer premium rates |
| Quebec | $28 – $40 | Lower overall, but high job stability |
| Saskatchewan | $34 – $47 | Rural shortages boost wages |
| Nova Scotia | $26 – $36 | Lower cost of living = lower rates |
| Yukon/NWT | $45 – $65+ | Remote work premiums apply |
⚠️ Note: Unionized plumbers (e.g., members of UA Canada) often earn 10–20% more than non-union peers, plus benefits like pensions and health coverage.
For more context on skilled trades in Canada, see Wikipedia’s overview of vocational education in Canada.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Pay?
It’s not just about turning wrenches—several key factors shape your earning potential:
1. Certification Level
- Apprentice: Paid 50–70% of journeyperson rate while training (typically 4 years).
- Journeyperson: Fully licensed; earns full market rate.
- Red Seal Endorsement: Allows interprovincial work and often commands 5–15% higher wages.
2. Employment Type
- Residential plumbers: Steady but moderate pay ($28–$42/hr).
- Commercial/industrial plumbers: Higher complexity = $40–$60/hr.
- Emergency/on-call plumbers: Weekend/night premiums can double base rates.
3. Specialization
Plumbers with niche skills earn more:
- Medical gas installation
- Backflow prevention certification
- Green plumbing (water-efficient systems)
4. Location & Demand
Cities with housing booms (e.g., Calgary, Halifax) face plumber shortages, pushing wages up. Rural areas may offer signing bonuses or relocation packages.
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income in Canada
Want to earn at the top of the scale? Follow these proven steps:
- Complete Your Apprenticeship
Register with your provincial trade authority (e.g., Skilled Trades Ontario). Most programs take 4 years (8,000+ hours of work + in-school training). - Get Your Red Seal Certification
Pass the Interprovincial Exam. This nationally recognized credential opens doors across Canada. - Gain Commercial Experience
Work on large-scale projects (hospitals, high-rises) for 2–3 years to build high-value skills. - Start Your Own Business (Optional)
After 5+ years, consider self-employment. Charge $90–$130/hour, but budget 30% for overhead (insurance, fuel, software, marketing). - Upskill Annually
Take courses in:- Smart home plumbing tech
- Drain camera operation
- HVAC cross-training (many plumbers add heating services)
📌 Pro Tip: Join a union like UA Local 488 (Alberta) or Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 133 (Ontario) for better wages, job security, and pension plans.
Pros vs. Cons of a Plumbing Career in Canada
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ High demand (Canada needs 10,000+ new plumbers by 2030) | ❌ Physically demanding work (kneeling, lifting, tight spaces) |
| ✅ No student debt (apprentices earn while learning) | ❌ On-call emergencies (nights/weekends) |
| ✅ Job security (people always need plumbing!) | ❌ Weather-dependent delays in outdoor work |
| ✅ Clear path to $80K–$120K/year | ❌ Licensing exams require serious study |
Despite the challenges, 87% of Canadian plumbers report high job satisfaction (Canadian Trades Survey, 2024).
FAQ Section
Q1: Do plumbers in Canada make more than electricians?
A: Generally, no. Both trades earn similarly—electricians average $30–$48/hour, while plumbers average $28–$45/hour. However, specialized roles (e.g., industrial electricians vs. medical gas plumbers) can tip the scale either way.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make per hour?
A: Apprentices typically earn 50–70% of a journeyperson’s wage. In Ontario, for example, first-year apprentices average $18–$24/hour, rising to $28–$34/hour by year four.
Q3: Can foreigners become plumbers in Canada?
A: Yes! Canada actively recruits skilled tradespeople through programs like the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). You’ll need:
- A valid job offer or qualification assessment
- Language test (CLB 5 minimum)
- Proof of 2+ years of experience
Q4: Are plumbing wages taxed differently in Canada?
A: No—but self-employed plumbers must handle GST/HST, CPP, and income tax themselves. Employed plumbers have taxes deducted automatically.
Q5: Which city pays plumbers the most in Canada?
A: As of 2026, Fort McMurray (AB) and Yellowknife (NT) offer the highest hourly rates due to remote work premiums and resource industry demand—often $55–$70/hour for experienced pros.
Q6: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Canada?
A: Typically 4 years: 3–4 work terms (6,000–8,000 hours) + 3–4 short in-school sessions (totaling ~800 hours). After passing the provincial exam, you receive your Certificate of Qualification.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make an hour in Canada? The honest answer: anywhere from $22 to over $60, depending on your skills, location, and career choices. With aging infrastructure, housing growth, and a retiring workforce, plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a future-proof career with real earning power.
If you’re considering this path, now’s the perfect time to start. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with someone exploring skilled trades—they’ll thank you later!
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Data sources: Job Bank Canada, Statistics Canada, Canadian Apprenticeship Forum, UA Canada (2025–2026 reports).
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