Thinking about becoming a plumber in Minnesota—or maybe you’re already one and wondering if you’re being paid fairly? You’re not alone. With rising demand for skilled trades and housing growth across the Twin Cities and beyond, many Minnesotans are asking: “How much does a plumber make in Minnesota?” Whether you’re exploring career options, negotiating your next raise, or just curious about local wages, this guide breaks down real earnings, factors that affect your paycheck, and what the future holds for plumbing professionals in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Minnesota? (2025 Data)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and updated 2025 state workforce reports, the average annual salary for a plumber in Minnesota is $61,920. This translates to roughly $29.77 per hour for full-time work.
But here’s the key: this is just the median. Actual earnings can vary widely based on experience, location, specialization, and whether you work for a company or are self-employed.
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $45,300 | $21.78 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 yrs) | $61,900 | $29.76 |
| Experienced (8+ yrs) | $78,500+ | $37.74+ |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), 2025
How Does Minnesota Compare to Neighboring States?
Plumbing wages aren’t uniform across the Midwest. Minnesota sits comfortably in the middle—but with strong growth potential.
- Wisconsin: Avg. $60,100
- Iowa: Avg. $58,400
- North Dakota: Avg. $63,200
- South Dakota: Avg. $56,900
While North Dakota edges out slightly due to energy-sector demand, Minnesota offers better job stability and urban opportunities, especially in Minneapolis-St. Paul, where commercial and residential plumbing needs are consistently high.
For more context on skilled trades across the U.S., see the U.S. plumbing industry overview on Wikipedia .
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings in Minnesota?
Not all plumbers earn the same—even in the same city. Here’s what moves the needle:
- Location Within Minnesota
- Minneapolis-St. Paul: Highest wages due to cost of living and demand. Average: $67,500/year.
- Duluth & Rochester: Slightly lower but stable: $59,000–$62,000.
- Rural areas: Fewer jobs, but lower overhead if self-employed.
- Certification & Licensing
Minnesota requires plumbers to be licensed through the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). Journeyman plumbers earn 15–20% more than unlicensed assistants. Master plumbers can command 25–30% higher rates, especially for complex commercial projects. - Specialization
- Residential plumbers: Steady work, predictable hours.
- Commercial/industrial plumbers: Higher pay, often union-backed.
- Pipefitters or HVAC-plumbing hybrids: Can earn $75,000+ with dual certifications.
- Union vs. Non-Union
Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 34 in the Twin Cities) often receive better wages, health benefits, and pension plans—but may have less scheduling flexibility.
Can You Earn More as a Self-Employed Plumber?
Absolutely—but with trade-offs.
Pros of Going Solo:
✅ Set your own rates (many charge $85–$150/hour for emergency calls)
✅ Keep 100% of profits
✅ Build a local brand and loyal client base
Cons:
❌ No guaranteed income during slow months (e.g., summer)
❌ You cover insurance, vehicle costs, tools, and licensing
❌ Administrative work (scheduling, invoicing, taxes)
Many successful solo plumbers in Minnesota start by working for a company for 3–5 years to build skills and a customer network before branching out.
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income in MN
Want to boost your earnings? Follow this roadmap:
- Get Licensed
Complete a 4-year apprenticeship (2,000+ on-the-job hours + classroom training), then pass the Minnesota Journeyman exam. - Specialize
Add certifications in backflow prevention, medical gas piping, or green plumbing (e.g., tankless water heaters, greywater systems). - Join a Union
Apply to UA Local 34 (Twin Cities) or UA Local 562 (Rochester) for better pay scales and job security. - Work Overtime & Emergencies
Winter pipe bursts and summer AC-linked plumbing issues can mean 1.5x–2x normal rates for after-hours calls. - Upskill with Business Training
If self-employed, take a small business course (offered free via MN DEED or SCORE) to improve pricing and client retention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do plumbers in Minnesota make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. The top 10% of plumbers in MN earn over $89,000/year, and many enjoy job security, benefits (if unionized), and low student debt compared to college grads.
Q: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Minnesota?
A: Typically 4 years through a registered apprenticeship. You must complete 8,000 hours of supervised work and 576 hours of classroom instruction before taking the Journeyman exam.
Q: Are plumbing jobs in demand in Minnesota?
A: Very. The state projects 9% growth in plumbing jobs through 2030—faster than the national average—due to infrastructure upgrades, new construction, and retiring workers.
Q: Can I start plumbing without going to trade school?
A: You can begin as an unlicensed plumbing apprentice, but you must work under a licensed plumber. Formal training (at schools like Dunwoody College or Hennepin Technical College) speeds up licensing and improves job prospects.
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Minnesota?
A: Master plumbers who own businesses or work on large-scale commercial projects (hospitals, data centers) often earn $90,000–$120,000/year, especially in the metro area.
Q: Is plumbing a good career for women in Minnesota?
A: Absolutely. While still male-dominated, Minnesota actively supports diversity in trades. Programs like Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) offer mentorship, scholarships, and job placement.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in Minnesota? The answer ranges from $45,000 for beginners to over $90,000 for seasoned pros—with plenty of room to grow through licensing, specialization, and smart career moves. With strong demand, job stability, and a clear path to financial independence, plumbing remains one of Minnesota’s most reliable and rewarding skilled trades.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone considering a trade career—or tag a future plumber in your life! 💧🔧
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