If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or simply curious about trade professions in the Sunshine State—you’ve probably asked yourself: “How much does a plumber make an hour in Florida?” With rising demand for skilled tradespeople and Florida’s booming construction industry, plumbing offers both stability and solid earning potential. In this guide, we’ll break down real hourly wages, what affects them, and how you can maximize your income as a plumber in Florida.
What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in Florida?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2024, the average hourly wage for a plumber in Florida is approximately $27.50. This translates to an annual salary of around $57,200 for full-time work (based on 2,080 hours per year).
However, this figure can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Experience level
- Geographic location within Florida
- Type of employer (residential vs. commercial)
- Union membership
- Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, medical gas)
For example, entry-level plumbers may start at $18–$22/hour, while master plumbers with 10+ years of experience can earn $35–$50/hour or more—especially in high-demand metro areas like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando.
💡 Pro Tip: Plumbers working overtime or on emergency calls (common in Florida due to frequent storms and aging infrastructure) can earn 1.5x to 2x their standard hourly rate.
How Does Florida Compare to Other States?
Florida’s plumbing wages are slightly below the national average, which hovers around $29.60/hour ($61,570 annually). However, Florida’s lower cost of living—especially outside major cities—can make these wages go further.
Here’s a quick comparison (2024 BLS data):
| Florida | $27.50 | $57,200 |
| Texas | $28.10 | $58,450 |
| California | $36.20 | $75,300 |
| New York | $35.80 | $74,500 |
| National Avg | $29.60 | $61,570 |
While Florida doesn’t top the list, its rapid population growth and construction boom create consistent job opportunities—making it a strong market for plumbers despite slightly lower pay.
For more context on plumbing as a profession, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Pay in Florida?
Not all plumbers earn the same—and that’s by design. Your income depends on several controllable and market-driven variables:
1. Experience Level
- Apprentice: $15–$20/hour (while training)
- Journeyman: $22–$32/hour (licensed, 2–5 years experience)
- Master Plumber: $35–$50+/hour (10+ years, full license)
2. Location Within Florida
- Miami/Fort Lauderdale: Higher demand = higher pay ($30–$45/hour)
- Jacksonville: Moderate rates ($25–$35/hour)
- Rural areas (e.g., Okeechobee): Lower demand = $20–$28/hour
3. Employment Type
- Self-employed: Can charge $75–$150/hour but manage overhead
- Contractor employee: Steady $25–$35/hour + benefits
- Government/utility work: Often unionized, with strong benefits and $30–$40/hour
4. Specializations
Plumbers with certifications in:
- Medical gas piping
- Backflow prevention
- Green plumbing (water efficiency) …can command 10–25% higher rates.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Florida (And Boost Your Earnings)
Florida requires licensing to work as a plumber. Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Complete a Plumbing Apprenticeship
- Typically 4–5 years
- Combines on-the-job training (2,000+ hours/year) with classroom instruction
- Pass the Florida Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
- Covers codes, safety, and system design
- Gain Experience & Upgrade to Master License
- Requires 2+ years as a journeyman
- Allows you to pull permits and run your own business
- Consider Additional Certifications
- EPA 608 Certification (for handling refrigerants in HVAC-plumbing hybrids)
- OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training
📌 Note: Florida does not require a state-wide plumbing license for minor residential work under $1,000—but to maximize income and legality, full licensure is strongly advised.
Real-Life Example: A Day in the Life of a Florida Plumber
Meet Carlos R., a journeyman plumber in Tampa:
- Hourly rate: $32/hour
- Typical day: 7 AM–4 PM, 4–5 service calls (leaky faucets, water heater installs, drain cleaning)
- Overtime: 2–3 emergency calls/week at $48/hour
- Monthly take-home: ~$5,200 after taxes
- Benefits: Company vehicle, health insurance, retirement match
Carlos plans to open his own shop within 2 years—projected earnings: $80,000–$100,000/year.
Pros and Cons of Being a Plumber in Florida
| High job demand (Florida adds ~1,000 new residentsdaily) | Physically demanding work |
| No student debt (vs. 4-year degrees) | Irregular hours (emergencies, weekends) |
| Clear career progression (apprentice → master) | Licensing and continuing education required |
| Entrepreneurial opportunities | Exposure to hazardous materials (mold, sewage) |
Despite the challenges, 87% of Florida plumbers report job satisfaction (per 2023 National Trade Careers Survey).
FAQ Section
Q: Do plumbers in Florida make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. While entry-level pay starts modestly, journeyman and master plumbers routinely earn $60,000–$90,000/year, with top earners exceeding $100,000 through self-employment or specialization.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in Florida?
A: Absolutely. Florida’s aging infrastructure, hurricane-related repairs, and constant new construction create steady, recession-resistant demand. The state projects a 12% growth in plumbing jobs by 2030—faster than the national average.
Q: How much do apprentice plumbers make in Florida?
A: Apprentices typically earn $15–$20/hour while training. Many programs also offer tuition reimbursement and incremental pay raises every 6–12 months.
Q: Can I work as a plumber in Florida without a license?
A: Only for very limited tasks (e.g., minor residential repairs under $1,000). For full scope work—including commercial jobs or pulling permits—you must be licensed by the DBPR.
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Florida?
A: Master plumbers in commercial or industrial settings (e.g., hospitals, high-rises, wastewater plants) earn the most. Those with medical gas certification can make $50–$70/hour on specialized projects.
Q: How do union vs. non-union plumber wages compare in Florida?
A: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 475 in Miami) often earn 10–20% more with better benefits, but union entry can be competitive. Non-union plumbers may have more flexibility but less job security.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make an hour in Florida? The answer ranges from $18 for beginners to over $50 for seasoned experts—with plenty of room to grow through skill, certification, and entrepreneurship. In a state where plumbing emergencies never sleep (thanks to humidity, storms, and rapid development), your services will always be in demand.
If you’re exploring this career path, now is an excellent time to start an apprenticeship or pursue licensure. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career—they’ll thank you later!
🔧 Your future in Florida plumbing starts with one pipe at a time.
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