If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or just wondering whether it’s worth calling one for that leaky faucet—you’ve probably asked: “How much does a plumber make an hour in NH?” In New Hampshire, plumbing isn’t just about fixing pipes; it’s a skilled trade with solid earning potential. Whether you’re a job seeker, apprentice, or homeowner budgeting for repairs, understanding current wage trends helps you make smarter decisions. Let’s break down the real numbers behind plumbing wages in the Granite State—backed by data, expert insights, and local market realities.
What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in New Hampshire?
As of early 2026, the average hourly wage for a licensed plumber in New Hampshire ranges from $28 to $42 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and state labor reports. This translates to an annual income between $58,000 and $87,000, assuming full-time work (40 hours/week).
However, this is just the baseline. Several factors—including experience, certification level, geographic location within NH, and employer type—can significantly shift these numbers.
💡 Did You Know? Master plumbers in urban areas like Manchester or Nashua often earn 15–25% more than journeymen in rural counties due to higher demand and cost of living.
How Do NH Plumbing Wages Compare to National Averages?
New Hampshire’s plumbing wages are slightly above the national average. The BLS reports the U.S. median hourly wage for plumbers at $27.50/hour ($57,200 annually). In contrast, NH plumbers benefit from:
- Strong demand in aging housing stock (many homes built pre-1980 need upgrades)
- Limited supply of licensed tradespeople
- Higher regional cost of living, especially near the Seacoast and Boston metro commuter zones
| Location | Avg. Hourly Wage | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire (Statewide) | $32–$38 | $66,500–$79,000 |
| National Average (U.S.) | $27.50 | $57,200 |
| Massachusetts (Neighbor State) | $35–$45 | $72,800–$93,600 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), Jan 2026
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Rate in NH?
Not all plumbers earn the same—and that’s by design. Your paycheck depends on several key variables:
1. Licensing Level
- Apprentice: $16–$22/hour (typically 4–5 year training program)
- Journeyman: $25–$35/hour (licensed after passing state exam)
- Master Plumber: $35–$50+/hour (can own a business, supervise others)
According to the New Hampshire Board of Plumbers, only master plumbers can pull permits or operate independently.
2. Location Within New Hampshire
- High-Demand Areas: Portsmouth, Concord, and Salem command premium rates.
- Rural Counties (e.g., Coös or Carroll): Lower volume but less competition—some self-employed plumbers thrive with loyal local clients.
3. Employment Type
- Union vs. Non-Union: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 131) often earn 10–20% more with benefits.
- Self-Employed: Can charge $75–$125/hour for emergency services—but must cover insurance, tools, and taxes.
4. Specialization
Plumbers with niche skills earn more:
- Gas line installation: +15% premium
- Commercial plumbing: +10–20% over residential
- Green plumbing (water-efficient systems): Growing demand in eco-conscious towns like Hanover
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Plumber in NH
Want to climb the pay ladder? Follow this roadmap:
- Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship
Enroll in a program like the one offered by the New Hampshire Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association (NH PHCA). Most last 4–5 years and combine classroom learning with 6,000+ hours of hands-on work. - Pass the Journeyman Exam
Administered by the NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). Study code books, blueprint reading, and local regulations. - Gain 2+ Years of Experience
Work under a master plumber to build your reputation and technical range. - Obtain Master Plumber License
Requires 4,000+ hours of journeyman experience and passing a rigorous exam. - Consider Special Certifications
Add credentials like Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) or OSHA 30-Hour Safety Training—these open doors to municipal and industrial contracts. - Start Your Own Business (Optional)
With a master license, you can launch a solo operation. Use platforms like Angi or HomeAdvisor to attract clients—but remember: pricing transparency builds trust.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career in New Hampshire
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ High demand (NH faces a skilled trades shortage) | ❌ Physically demanding work (kneeling, lifting, tight spaces) |
| ✅ No student debt (vs. 4-year degrees) | ❌ On-call emergencies (nights/weekends) |
| ✅ Clear career progression (apprentice → master) | ❌ Licensing requires ongoing education (8 hrs/year in NH) |
| ✅ Entrepreneurial freedom (own your schedule) | ❌ Seasonal slowdowns in winter (unless doing indoor/commercial work) |
Real-Life Example: A Day in the Life of a NH Plumber
Meet Jake R., 34, a master plumber in Dover, NH:
“I started as an apprentice at 19. Now I run my own two-van shop. My standard rate is $95/hour, but I cap diagnostic fees at $75 so customers don’t feel nickel-and-dimed. Last year, I cleared $92,000 after expenses. It’s tough work—but I’ve never been unemployed, even during the pandemic.”
Jake’s success highlights a key truth: reputation and reliability drive long-term earnings more than hourly rates alone.
For more on the history and standards of the trade, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do plumbers in New Hampshire get overtime pay?
Yes—if employed by a company, plumbers are entitled to 1.5x their regular rate for hours worked beyond 40/week under NH state law. Self-employed plumbers set their own rates.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make in NH?
Apprentices typically earn 40–60% of a journeyman’s wage, starting around $16/hour and increasing yearly. Many programs also include health benefits and tuition reimbursement.
Q3: Are plumbing wages in NH expected to rise in 2026–2027?
Yes. The NH Department of Employment Security projects a 9% growth in plumbing jobs through 2028, driven by infrastructure upgrades and retirements. Wage growth is expected to keep pace with inflation (~3–4% annually).
Q4: Can I become a plumber in NH without formal schooling?
You don’t need a college degree, but you must complete a state-registered apprenticeship or equivalent experience (8,000 hours) to sit for the journeyman exam. Trade schools like NHTI – Concord’s Community College offer accelerated prep courses.
Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in New Hampshire?
Master plumbers working on commercial or industrial projects—especially in healthcare, labs, or high-rise construction—earn the most. Some top earners exceed $60/hour on union-scale contracts.
Q6: How do emergency plumbing rates work in NH?
Most companies charge 1.5x to 2x their standard hourly rate for nights, weekends, or holidays. Always ask for a price estimate before work begins—NH law requires transparent billing for home services.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make an hour in NH? The answer isn’t just a number—it’s a reflection of skill, experience, and market savvy. From apprentices earning $18/hour to master contractors pulling in six figures, plumbing in New Hampshire offers a clear, rewarding path for those willing to learn the trade.
Whether you’re exploring careers or hiring help, now you’ve got the real data to make informed choices. If you found this guide helpful, share it on Facebook or LinkedIn to help others in the Granite State navigate the world of plumbing wages!
Got questions we didn’t cover? Drop them in the comments below—we read every one.
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