Thinking about becoming a plumber in New York—or just wondering if it’s a well-paying trade? You’re not alone. With rising housing demands and aging infrastructure, plumbing remains a critical—and lucrative—profession in the Empire State. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much a plumber makes in New York, including entry-level wages, experienced earnings, and what factors can boost your paycheck. Whether you’re exploring a new career or negotiating your next raise, this data-driven breakdown has you covered.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in New York?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and recent 2025 wage reports from New York State Department of Labor, the average annual salary for a plumber in New York is $78,420. That’s significantly higher than the national average of $60,090.
But that number varies widely depending on location, experience, and specialization:
Entry-Level (0–2 yrs)
$24 – $30
$50,000 – $62,000
Mid-Career (3–7 yrs)
$32 – $42
$66,000 – $87,000
Senior/Expert (8+ yrs)
$45 – $65+
$93,000 – $135,000+
Note: These figures reflect base pay and may not include overtime, bonuses, or union benefits—common in New York.
Plumbers in New York City typically earn 15–25% more than those in upstate regions due to higher cost of living and demand for skilled trades in dense urban environments.
How Does Location Within New York Affect Pay?
Not all New York zip codes pay the same. Here’s how plumber salaries compare across key regions:
New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens): $85,000 – $120,000 High demand for emergency repairs, luxury building maintenance, and commercial projects drives up rates.
Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk Counties): $75,000 – $95,000 Strong residential market with frequent renovation projects.
Albany/Schenectady: $65,000 – $80,000 Steady municipal and industrial plumbing work.
Buffalo/Rochester: $60,000 – $75,000 Lower cost of living translates to slightly lower wages—but still above national average.
💡 Pro Tip: Union-affiliated plumbers in NYC (e.g., through UA Local 1) often earn $50–$70/hour plus health benefits, pension contributions, and paid training—making union membership a major income booster.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings in New York?
Several key variables determine your paycheck:
1. Licensing Level
New York requires plumbers to be licensed at the state or local level. Journeyman plumbers earn more than apprentices, and Master Plumbers can command top-tier rates—especially if they run their own businesses.
2. Specialization
Specialized skills = higher pay. Examples:
Commercial plumbing: +15–20% over residential
Pipefitting or gas line installation: +10–25%
Green plumbing (water-efficient systems): Growing niche with premium rates
3. Employment Type
Self-employed: Potential for $100K+ but with overhead costs
Union employee: Stable wages + benefits
Non-union contractor: Variable income, often project-based
4. Overtime & Emergency Calls
Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half after 40 hours/week. Emergency weekend or holiday calls can pay $100–$150/hour in NYC.
How to Become a Licensed Plumber in New York (Step-by-Step)
Want to enter this high-demand field? Follow these steps:
Complete High School or GED Focus on math, physics, and shop classes.
Enroll in a Plumbing Apprenticeship Most programs last 4–5 years and combine classroom learning with 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training. → Apply through unions (e.g., UA Local 1 ) or trade schools like New York City College of Technology.
Pass the Journeyman Exam Administered by NYC Department of Buildings or your county. Covers codes, safety, and system design.
Gain Experience (2–4 Years) Work under a licensed master plumber.
Take the Master Plumber Exam Required to pull permits and run your own business in NYC.
Plumber Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades in New York
How does plumbing stack up against similar careers?
Electrician
$76,200
HVAC Technician
$72,500
Carpenter
$68,900
Plumber
$78,420
Construction Manager
$102,000
Plumbing consistently ranks among the top 3 highest-paid skilled trades in New York—especially when you factor in job stability and low automation risk.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career in New York
✅ Pros:
High earning potential with experience
Job security: Plumbing can’t be outsourced or easily automated
Flexible paths: Work for a company, join a union, or start your own business
Fast entry: Apprenticeships pay while you learn
❌ Cons:
Physically demanding: Crawling in tight spaces, lifting heavy pipes
Irregular hours: Emergency calls at night or weekends
Licensing complexity: Varies by borough (e.g., NYC vs. Buffalo)
Still, 89% of New York plumbers report high job satisfaction (per 2024 National Trade Careers Survey), citing autonomy and financial independence as top reasons.
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Make in New York?
Q1: Do plumbers in NYC really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially master plumbers, union members, or business owners. Top earners in Manhattan regularly clear $110,000–$140,000/year with overtime and commercial contracts.
Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make in New York?
A: Apprentices start at $18–$22/hour (about $37,000–$45,000/year) and receive raises every 1,000 work hours. Most programs also include health benefits.
Q3: Is plumbing a good career in New York for women?
A: Absolutely. While historically male-dominated, organizations like Women in Trades NYC are actively supporting female plumbers. Pay is equal, and demand for diverse crews is rising.
Q4: Can I make more as a self-employed plumber?
A: Potentially—yes. Self-employed plumbers in NYC charge $85–$150/hour. However, you’ll cover insurance, tools, marketing, and taxes. Net income often matches (or slightly exceeds) top union wages after expenses.
Q5: Are plumbing jobs in New York expected to grow?
A: Yes. The BLS projects 11% job growth for plumbers in New York through 2030—faster than average—due to infrastructure upgrades, new construction, and retirements.
Q6: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in New York?
A:Master Plumber for high-rise commercial buildings or emergency service owner in Manhattan. These roles often include contract bonuses, referral fees, and recurring maintenance agreements.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a plumber make in New York? The answer ranges from $50,000 for beginners to over $130,000 for seasoned experts—with strong growth potential, job stability, and multiple career paths. Whether you’re drawn to hands-on problem-solving, entrepreneurial freedom, or a reliable paycheck without a college degree, plumbing in New York offers a smart, future-proof career.
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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