Thinking about becoming a plumber in Arizona—or just curious how your paycheck stacks up? You’re not alone. With rising demand for skilled trades and Arizona’s growing population, plumbing offers stable, well-paying work. But how much does a plumber make in Arizona exactly? In this guide, we break down the latest salary data, regional differences, career paths, and tips to maximize your earnings—all backed by official sources and real-world insights.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Arizona?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data updated for 2024, the average annual salary for a plumber in Arizona is $55,840, with an average hourly wage of $26.85.
But that’s just the baseline. Actual earnings vary significantly based on experience, location, certifications, and whether you work for yourself or a company.
For context:
- Entry-level plumbers (0–2 years) earn around $42,000–$48,000/year
- Mid-career plumbers (3–7 years) average $52,000–$63,000/year
- Experienced or master plumbers (8+ years) can earn $70,000–$90,000+, especially in metro areas
💡 Pro Tip: Overtime is common in plumbing—especially during summer HVAC emergencies or winter pipe bursts. Many plumbers add 10–20% to their income through after-hours calls.
How Do Arizona Plumbing Salaries Compare to National Averages?
Nationally, plumbers earn a median of $60,090/year (BLS, 2024). That means Arizona plumbers earn about 7% less than the U.S. average.
But cost of living matters! Arizona’s housing and daily expenses are lower than in states like California or New York, so your dollar stretches further—especially outside major cities.
| Arizona (statewide) | $55,840 | 96.4 |
| California | $68,430 | 151.7 |
| Texas | $56,120 | 87.9 |
| U.S. National Avg. | $60,090 | 100.0 |
* Cost of Living Index: U.S. average = 100 (source: Missouri Economic Research and Information Center )
So while Arizona pays slightly below national average, your real purchasing power may be higher than in pricier states.
Which Arizona Cities Pay Plumbers the Most?
Location dramatically impacts your paycheck. Here’s how top metro areas compare:
| Phoenix | $58,200 | $28.00 |
| Tucson | $53,900 | $25.90 |
| Mesa | $57,600 | $27.70 |
| Scottsdale | $61,500 | $29.60 |
| Flagstaff | $59,300 | $28.50 |
Scottsdale tops the list, thanks to high-end residential service calls and commercial projects. Flagstaff also pays well due to tourism infrastructure and seasonal demand.
🛠️ Case Study: Carlos R., a licensed plumber in Scottsdale, reported earning $78,000 in 2024—$18,000 above the state average—by specializing in luxury home installations and offering weekend emergency services.
How Can Plumbers in Arizona Increase Their Earnings?
Want to boost your income? Here are 5 proven strategies:
- Get Your Master Plumber License
- In Arizona, you need 4+ years of experience and to pass the state exam.
- Master plumbers can run their own businesses and take on larger commercial jobs.
- Specialize in High-Demand Niches
- Green plumbing (water-saving systems)
- Solar water heating installation
- Medical or industrial plumbing (higher compliance requirements = higher pay)
- Work for Yourself
- Independent contractors often charge $80–$150/hour for service calls.
- After expenses, many solo plumbers net $70,000–$100,000/year.
- Offer Emergency & Weekend Services
- Charge 1.5x–2x standard rates for after-hours calls—common during monsoon season or winter freezes.
- Join a Union (Optional but Beneficial)
- UA Local 468 (Phoenix) offers wage protection, training, and benefits. Union plumbers often earn 10–15% more than non-union peers.
For licensing details, visit the Arizona Registrar of Contractors .
Education & Certification Requirements in Arizona
Becoming a plumber in Arizona typically follows this path:
- High school diploma or GED (required)
- Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
- Combine 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training with classroom instruction
- Programs available through trade schools (e.g., Arizona Training & Education Center) or unions
- Pass the Arizona Journeyman Plumber Exam
- Covers code, safety, and practical knowledge
- Work 2+ years as a journeyman before applying for Master Plumber status
⚠️ Note: Arizona does not require state licensing for residential plumbers under certain conditions—but most employers and clients prefer (or require) licensed professionals for liability reasons.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumbing Salaries in Arizona
Q: Do plumbers in Arizona make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. While entry-level roles start around $42K, skilled plumbers in cities like Scottsdale or Phoenix regularly earn $65,000–$90,000/year. Add overtime or your own business, and six figures are possible.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in Arizona?
A: Absolutely. Arizona’s construction boom, aging infrastructure, and water conservation needs create steady demand. The BLS projects 11% job growth for plumbers in Arizona through 2030—faster than average.
Q: How much do apprentice plumbers make in Arizona?
A: Apprentices typically earn $18–$22/hour (about $37,000–$45,000/year), with raises every 1,000 hours. Many programs also include health benefits and tuition reimbursement.
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Arizona?
A: Master plumbers who own businesses or work in commercial/industrial sectors (e.g., hospitals, data centers) earn the most. Some report $100,000+ with specialized certifications.
Q: Are plumbers in demand in Arizona?
A: Yes. Rapid population growth in Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding areas has increased demand for new plumbing installations, repairs, and water-efficient retrofits. Shortages of skilled workers mean job security is high.
Q: How does Arizona plumbing pay compare to electricians or HVAC techs?
A: Similar—but plumbers often have less seasonal fluctuation. Electricians average $57,200 in AZ; HVAC techs earn $53,900 (BLS, 2024). All three trades offer strong long-term potential.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in Arizona? The answer ranges from $42,000 for beginners to over $90,000 for experts—with plenty of room to grow through certifications, specialization, and entrepreneurship.
With Arizona’s booming housing market, water conservation initiatives, and aging infrastructure, plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a future-proof career with real earning power.
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Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), Arizona Registrar of Contractors, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Census Bureau, industry interviews.
For general background on plumbing as a profession, see Plumber – Wikipedia .
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