Thinking about becoming a plumber in North Carolina—or just curious how much professionals in this trade earn? You’re not alone. With skilled labor in high demand and housing construction booming across cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, plumbing remains a stable and well-paying career path. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much does a plumber make in NC, including entry-level wages, experienced earnings, and what can boost your paycheck.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in North Carolina?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in North Carolina was $56,320 as of May 2024. That translates to roughly $27.08 per hour.
But this number is just the midpoint—your actual earnings can vary significantly based on experience, location, certifications, and employer type.
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $42,000 – $48,000 | $20.19 – $23.08 |
| Mid-Career (3–7 yrs) | $52,000 – $63,000 | $25.00 – $30.29 |
| Experienced (8+ yrs) | $65,000 – $80,000+ | $31.25 – $38.46+ |
💡 Pro Tip: Plumbers in urban areas like Charlotte or Raleigh-Durham typically earn 10–15% more than those in rural counties due to higher cost of living and service demand.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Salary in NC?
Several key variables determine your earning potential in the plumbing trade:
- Location Within North Carolina
Metro areas offer higher pay. For example:- Charlotte: Avg. $61,200/year
- Raleigh: Avg. $59,800/year
- Greensboro: Avg. $54,100/year
- Western NC (Asheville): Avg. $57,500/year (boosted by tourism & vacation homes)
- Certifications & Licensing
While North Carolina doesn’t require a state plumbing license for residential work under certain conditions, holding a NC Class I or II Plumbing Contractor License can increase your hourly rate by $5–$10. Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, green plumbing) also add value. - Employment Setting
- Self-employed plumbers often earn more but handle overhead costs. Top earners report $85,000–$110,000/year after 10+ years.
- Union plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 633 in Charlotte) may start higher and receive benefits, averaging $62,000+ with overtime.
- Commercial or industrial plumbers typically out-earn residential ones due to complex systems and emergency call-outs.
- Overtime & Emergency Work
Many plumbers charge 1.5x–2x their standard rate for nights, weekends, or holidays. A plumber making $30/hour can earn $60–$75/hour on emergency calls.
For more on licensing standards, see the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors (official state resource).
How Does NC Compare to National Plumbing Salaries?
Nationally, plumbers earned a median of $60,090/year in 2024 (BLS). North Carolina’s average ($56,320) sits slightly below the national median—but keep in mind:
- NC has a lower cost of living than states like California ($75,000 avg) or New York ($71,000 avg).
- When adjusted for purchasing power, a plumber in NC often enjoys greater financial flexibility than peers in high-cost states.
🌐 Did You Know? Plumbing is consistently ranked among the top 10 most in-demand skilled trades in the U.S., with employment projected to grow 5% from 2022–2032 (faster than average). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Steps to Maximize Your Earnings as a Plumber in NC
If you’re serious about boosting your income, follow this roadmap:
- Complete a State-Approved Apprenticeship
Most plumbers start with a 4–5 year apprenticeship (e.g., through Charlotte Plumbing Apprenticeship Program or NC Community Colleges). You’ll earn while you learn—typically $15–$20/hour as an apprentice. - Get Licensed
After 2,000+ hours of supervised work, apply for your NC Plumbing Contractor License. This opens doors to higher-paying commercial jobs and the ability to run your own business. - Specialize
Master niche areas like:- Solar water heating
- Medical gas piping
- Smart home plumbing systems
Specialization can increase rates by 20–30%.
- Go Independent
Start your own plumbing business after gaining experience. Use platforms like HomeAdvisor or Angi to build early clientele. Set clear pricing (e.g., $85–$150/hour for diagnostics + labor). - Invest in Marketing
A professional website with SEO (like this article!) and Google Business Profile can generate 5–10 qualified leads/week in urban NC markets.
Plumbing Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades in NC
How does plumbing stack up against similar careers in North Carolina?
| Plumber | $56,320 |
| Electrician | $55,890 |
| HVAC Technician | $52,400 |
| Carpenter | $49,200 |
| Welder | $46,700 |
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
Plumbing consistently ranks #1 or #2 in earning potential among building trades in NC—especially when you factor in overtime and self-employment upside.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries in NC
Q1: Do plumbers in North Carolina make good money?
A: Yes—especially with experience. Mid-career plumbers regularly earn $60,000–$75,000/year, and top earners (self-employed or specialized) surpass $90,000. With low student debt (compared to 4-year degrees), plumbing offers strong ROI.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make in NC?
A: Apprentices typically start at $14–$18/hour ($29,000–$37,000/year). Wages increase annually as you gain skills—many reach $25/hour by Year 4.
Q3: Is plumbing a stable career in North Carolina?
A: Absolutely. North Carolina’s population is growing rapidly (especially in the Triangle and Charlotte metro), driving constant demand for new construction and repairs. The BLS projects steady job growth through 2032.
Q4: Can I become a plumber in NC without a license?
A: For residential work under $20,000, you can work under a licensed contractor without your own license. But to run your own business or do commercial work, you must be licensed by the NC State Board.
Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in NC?
A: Master plumbers with commercial/industrial expertise—especially in hospitals, data centers, or manufacturing—earn the most. Some report $100,000+ with overtime and bonuses.
Q6: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in NC?
A: Typically 4–5 years: 2,000+ hours of field experience + passing the state exam. Many complete this through formal apprenticeships.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in NC? The answer depends on your path—but with the right training, license, and hustle, $60,000–$90,000/year is very achievable in North Carolina’s thriving market. Whether you’re starting an apprenticeship or launching your own plumbing business, this trade offers stability, growth, and real earning power without a college degree.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend considering a skilled trade—or tag someone who’s tired of desk jobs and ready to build a hands-on career! 💧🔧
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