Thinking about becoming a plumber in Arkansas—or already on the job and curious if you’re earning competitively? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople in The Natural State want clarity on income potential, job growth, and how their earnings stack up against national averages. In this guide, we’ll answer the burning question: “How much does a plumber make in Arkansas?”—with real data, expert insights, and practical takeaways to help you make informed career decisions.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Arkansas?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024 data, the average annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Arkansas is $52,890—which breaks down to roughly $25.43 per hour. This is slightly below the national average of $60,090, but it aligns well with Arkansas’s lower cost of living.
| Average Annual Salary | $52,890 | $60,090 |
| Hourly Wage | $25.43 | $28.89 |
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $38,000–$44,000 | $42,000–$50,000 |
| Experienced (5+ yrs) | $58,000–$70,000+ | $65,000–$80,000+ |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024
Keep in mind: These figures include all plumbing roles—residential, commercial, and industrial. Specializing in areas like gas fitting or medical gas installation can lead to higher compensation.
How Do Arkansas Plumbing Salaries Compare by City?
Location matters—even within Arkansas. Urban centers typically offer higher wages due to demand, cost of living, and project complexity.
| Little Rock | $55,200 | Highest demand; state capital with steady construction |
| Fort Smith | $51,800 | Moderate growth in commercial plumbing |
| Fayetteville | $53,900 | University-driven housing & infrastructure needs |
| Jonesboro | $50,400 | Slightly lower but with low living costs |
| Hot Springs | $49,600 | Tourism-related maintenance work; seasonal fluctuations |
If you’re flexible on location, targeting metropolitan areas like Little Rock or Bentonville (home to Walmart HQ and ongoing development) can boost your income by 5–10%.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings in Arkansas?
Several variables affect how much you can earn beyond the base hourly rate:
- Experience: Journeyman plumbers earn 20–30% more than apprentices.
- Licensing Level: Arkansas requires a journeyman or master plumber license for independent work. Master plumbers often command $30–$38/hour.
- Employment Type:
- Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 311) may earn higher wages with benefits.
- Self-employed plumbers can earn $60,000–$90,000+ after building a client base—but must cover overhead.
- Overtime & Emergency Calls: Weekend or holiday emergency calls often pay 1.5x–2x standard rates.
💡 Pro Tip: Completing certifications in backflow prevention, green plumbing, or solar water heating can increase your marketability and rates—especially with Arkansas’s growing focus on sustainable infrastructure.
Plumbing Job Outlook in Arkansas: Is It a Good Career?
Yes—very good. The BLS projects 8% job growth for plumbers nationwide from 2022 to 2032, faster than average. In Arkansas, this trend is amplified by:
- Aging infrastructure needing upgrades
- Population growth in Northwest AR (Benton and Washington counties)
- New residential and commercial construction
The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services lists plumbing as a “High-Demand Occupation” with strong apprenticeship pipelines through technical colleges like NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) and Pulaski Technical College.
And unlike many careers, you can start earning while training—apprentices in Arkansas typically make $16–$20/hour in their first year.
For more context on skilled trades in the U.S., see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing .
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income in Arkansas
- Get Licensed
Arkansas does not license plumbing at the state level—but most cities do (e.g., Little Rock, Fayetteville). You’ll need:- 4+ years of documented experience
- Pass a local code exam
- Renew every 1–2 years
- Join an Apprenticeship Program
Programs like the Arkansas Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (ARPHCC) offer paid training with mentorship. Average completion time: 4–5 years. - Specialize Early
Choose a niche (e.g., commercial pipefitting or drain cleaning) to reduce competition and raise rates. - Track Every Job
Use apps like Jobber or Housecall Pro to invoice, schedule, and analyze profitable services. - Upsell Preventive Maintenance
Offer annual inspection plans ($100–$150/year per client)—a steady income stream with high retention.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries in Arkansas
Q: Do plumbers in Arkansas make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. While entry-level wages start around $38,000, licensed journeymen and business owners regularly earn $60,000–$85,000. In high-demand areas like Bentonville, top earners exceed $90,000.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Arkansas?
A: Most cities require 4 years (8,000 hours) of hands-on work under a licensed plumber, plus passing a local licensing exam. Apprenticeships usually span 4–5 years while earning a wage.
Q: Are plumbing jobs in Arkansas in demand?
A: Absolutely. With new housing developments, aging pipes in older homes, and commercial expansion—especially in Northwest Arkansas—demand remains strong. The state lists plumbing as a critical trade shortage area.
Q: Can I make six figures as a plumber in Arkansas?
A: Yes—if you own your business or specialize in high-end commercial/industrial work. Self-employed plumbers with 10+ years’ experience and strong local reviews often hit $100,000+ after covering expenses.
Q: What’s the difference between a journeyman and master plumber salary?
A: In Arkansas cities that recognize these tiers:
- Journeyman: $24–$32/hour ($50k–$66k/year)
- Master: $32–$45/hour ($66k–$93k/year), with ability to pull permits and run crews
Q: Does Arkansas require state plumbing licensing?
A: No—but most major cities do. Always check local ordinances in your target work area (e.g., Little Rock, Springdale, Fort Smith). Working without a local license can result in fines or work stoppages.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in Arkansas? The honest answer: $38,000 to $90,000+, depending on your skill, location, and ambition. With strong job growth, low barriers to entry (compared to 4-year degrees), and real earning potential, plumbing remains one of Arkansas’s most reliable and rewarding skilled trades.
Whether you’re a high school grad exploring career paths or a current tradesperson considering a move to The Natural State, the numbers show a clear opportunity.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend considering a trade career—or post it on LinkedIn to spark a conversation about skilled labor in Arkansas! 💧🔧
Article last updated: November 2025 | Data sources: U.S. BLS, Arkansas DWS, ARPHCC, local municipal codes.
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