Thinking about becoming a plumber in British Columbia—or already on the job and curious if you’re earning fairly? You’re not alone. Many tradespeople and career switchers wonder, “How much does a plumber make in BC?” With rising housing demands and infrastructure projects across the province, plumbing remains a stable—and potentially lucrative—career path. In this guide, we’ll break down real earnings, influencing factors, and how you can maximize your income in BC’s plumbing industry.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in British Columbia?
According to the most recent data from WorkBC (the provincial government’s labour market portal), the median hourly wage for plumbers in British Columbia is $36.50/hour as of 2025. That translates to an annual income of approximately $75,920 for full-time work (based on 40 hours/week, 52 weeks/year).
💡 Note: Unionized plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 283) often earn 10–15% more than non-union counterparts, plus better benefits.
What Factors Affect a Plumber’s Earnings in BC?
Not all plumbers earn the same—even in the same city. Your income depends on several key variables:
1. Location Within BC
Vancouver & Lower Mainland: Higher demand = higher rates ($40–$65/hour for experienced pros).
Interior & Northern BC (e.g., Kelowna, Prince George): Fewer competitors can mean premium emergency service fees, though base wages may be slightly lower.
Vancouver Island: Steady demand in Victoria and Nanaimo, but seasonal fluctuations affect summer vs. winter income.
2. Specialization
General plumbers earn solid wages, but specialists command more:
Gasfitters (certified to work on gas lines): +$5–$10/hour
Commercial/Industrial Plumbers: Often earn $50+/hour due to complex systems
Pipefitters or HVAC-Integrated Plumbers: Cross-skilling boosts income potential
3. Employment Type
Self-employed plumbers can earn $80,000–$150,000/year—but must cover overhead (insurance, van, tools, marketing).
Company employees enjoy steady pay and benefits but cap out around $90,000 unless in management.
Emergency/On-call plumbers often charge time-and-a-half after hours.
4. Certifications & Red Seal Endorsement
Holding a Red Seal endorsement (the national standard for trades) allows you to work anywhere in Canada and typically increases earning power by 8–12%. Employers value this credential for its rigor and consistency.
British Columbia offers above-average pay for plumbers compared to other provinces:
British Columbia
$36.50
Alberta
$38.20
Ontario
$34.10
Quebec
$30.80
Nova Scotia
$29.50
While Alberta slightly edges out BC due to oil/gas infrastructure, BC’s cost of living (especially in Metro Vancouver) means net disposable income may feel lower. However, BC’s strong construction sector and aging infrastructure ensure consistent job security.
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income in BC
Want to climb from apprentice to six-figure plumber? Follow this roadmap:
Complete Your Apprenticeship
Register with SkilledTradesBC
Complete 4 levels of technical training + 5,600 work hours
Pass the Interprovincial (Red Seal) exam
Get Additional Certifications
Enroll in gasfitting, backflow prevention, or drain cleaning courses
Each adds service lines—and billable hours
Join a Union (Optional but Beneficial)
UA Local 283 in Vancouver offers wage protection, pension plans, and health benefits
Go Mobile & Build a Brand
By year 5, consider launching your own business
Use platforms like HomeStars or Google Business to attract local clients
Charge $95–$150/hour for emergency calls (common in urban BC)
Track Expenses & Taxes
As a self-employed plumber, deduct tools, fuel, and home office costs
Set aside 25–30% of income for taxes (consult an accountant familiar with trades)
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career in BC
✅ High demand (low unemployment)
❌ Physically demanding work
✅ No student debt (earn while you learn)
❌ On-call nights/weekends
✅ Clear path to six figures
❌ Startup costs if self-employed (~$15K for van & tools)
✅ Job security (people always need plumbing!)
❌ Licensing and certification take 4+ years
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Make in BC?
Q1: Do plumbers in BC make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. Journeyman plumbers average $75K–$90K, while business owners or specialists often exceed $100K/year.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers earn in BC?
A: First-year apprentices typically earn $18–$24/hour, increasing each year. By the 4th year, wages approach $30–$35/hour.
Q3: Is plumbing a good career in British Columbia?
A: Absolutely. BC faces a skilled trades shortage, and plumbing is recession-resistant. Plus, you can start earning while training—no university debt required.
Q4: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in BC?
A: About 4–5 years: 4 levels of in-school training (8 weeks each) + 5,600 work hours under a certified journeyperson.
Q5: Can I make six figures as a plumber in BC?
A: Yes—if you specialize, work overtime, or run your own business. Many BC plumbers hit $100K–$140K by their mid-30s.
Q6: Are plumbers in demand in BC?
A: Very. WorkBC projects over 2,300 job openings for plumbers in BC between 2023–2033 due to retirements and construction growth.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in BC? Realistically, anywhere from $40,000 as a beginner to $135,000+ as a seasoned pro or business owner. With BC’s booming construction sector, aging infrastructure, and skilled worker shortages, plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a long-term career with serious earning potential.
If you’re considering this path, now is the time to act. Training is accessible, demand is high, and your income grows with every certification and skill you add.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend exploring trades careers! 💬 Tag someone who’s thinking about becoming a plumber in BC—or drop your questions in the comments below.
Leave a Reply