Thinking about becoming a plumber in Ohio—or already in the trade and wondering if you’re earning what you’re worth? You’re not alone. With skilled trades in high demand across the Midwest, many job seekers and career changers are asking: “How much does a plumber make in Ohio?” In this guide, we’ll break down real salary data, regional differences, and what you can do to maximize your earnings—backed by trusted sources and updated for 2025.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Ohio?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Ohio-specific labor data from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, the average annual salary for a plumber in Ohio is approximately $58,900 as of 2025. That translates to about $28.32 per hour for full-time work (40 hours/week).
But averages only tell part of the story. Your actual earnings depend heavily on:
- Experience level (apprentice vs. master plumber)
- Geographic location within Ohio
- Type of employer (residential, commercial, industrial)
- Union membership status
- Overtime and emergency call-out opportunities
For example, entry-level plumbers may start around $42,000/year, while seasoned master plumbers in high-demand areas like Columbus or Cincinnati can earn over $80,000 annually—especially if they run their own business.
💡 Pro Tip: The plumbing field is one of Ohio’s fastest-growing skilled trades, with a projected 8% job growth through 2030—faster than the national average.
How Do Ohio Plumbing Salaries Compare to Nearby States?
To understand your earning potential, it helps to compare Ohio to neighboring states. Here’s a snapshot of average plumber salaries in the Midwest (2025 data):
| Ohio | $58,900 | $28.32 |
| Indiana | $56,200 | $27.02 |
| Michigan | $61,400 | $29.52 |
| Pennsylvania | $60,100 | $28.89 |
| Kentucky | $54,800 | $26.35 |
Ohio sits comfortably in the middle—offering competitive pay without the higher cost of living seen in states like Michigan. This makes it an attractive option for tradespeople seeking work-life balance and financial stability.
You can learn more about the plumbing profession nationally on Wikipedia’s plumbing page .
Which Ohio Cities Pay Plumbers the Most?
Not all Ohio cities offer the same pay. Urban centers with robust construction, aging infrastructure, and high demand for skilled labor tend to offer the best wages.
Here are the top 5 highest-paying metro areas for plumbers in Ohio (2025 estimates):
- Columbus: Avg. $63,200/year
Why? Rapid population growth and new commercial developments. - Cincinnati: Avg. $61,800/year
Why? High volume of historic homes requiring pipe updates. - Cleveland: Avg. $60,500/year
Why? Industrial plumbing needs and infrastructure projects. - Dayton: Avg. $57,400/year
- Toledo: Avg. $55,900/year
Rural areas and smaller towns typically pay less—sometimes 10–15% below the state average—but often come with lower living costs and less competition.
How Does Experience Level Affect Earnings?
Plumbing is a career where experience directly equals income. Here’s how pay typically progresses:
| Apprentice(0–4 years) | $38,000–$48,000 | Paid training; works under supervision |
| Journeyman(4–8 years) | $52,000–$65,000 | Licensed; can work independently |
| Master Plumber(8+ years) | $70,000–$90,000+ | Can run a business, pull permits, mentor apprentices |
Many plumbers in Ohio choose to start their own companies after reaching master status. Business owners often earn 20–40% more than employees—especially if they offer 24/7 emergency services or specialize in areas like tankless water heaters or backflow prevention.
What Benefits and Perks Do Ohio Plumbers Receive?
Beyond base pay, many plumbing jobs in Ohio come with valuable perks:
- Health insurance (common in union and large commercial firms)
- Retirement plans (401(k) with employer match)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Vehicle reimbursement or company trucks
- Ongoing training and certification support
Union plumbers (e.g., those affiliated with UA Local 50 in Cleveland or Local 162 in Columbus) often enjoy higher wages and stronger job protections than non-union counterparts.
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Plumber in Ohio
Want to boost your income? Consider these proven strategies:
- Get licensed as a master plumber – Required for independent contracting; opens higher-paying doors.
- Specialize in high-demand niches – Think medical gas installation, green plumbing, or smart home systems.
- Work overtime or on-call shifts – Emergency weekend calls can pay 1.5x–2x regular rates.
- Start a side business – Even part-time freelance work (e.g., bathroom remodels) adds significant income.
- Join a union – While not for everyone, union plumbers in Ohio average $7,000–$12,000 more annually.
🛠️ Real Example: In 2024, a journeyman plumber in Akron added $14,000/year by offering Saturday drain-cleaning services through a simple Facebook page and word-of-mouth referrals.
FAQ: How Much Does a Plumber Make in Ohio?
Q1: Do plumbers in Ohio make good money?
Yes. With an average salary near $59,000 and top earners clearing $80K–$90K, plumbing is a financially stable trade—especially compared to many college-degree careers that come with student debt.
Q2: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber in Ohio?
It typically takes 4–5 years: 2 years of classroom instruction + 4,000–6,000 hours of apprenticeship. After that, you can take the journeyman exam.
Q3: Is plumbing a good career in Ohio?
Absolutely. Ohio faces a skilled labor shortage, and plumbers are in constant demand due to aging infrastructure, new housing, and commercial development.
Q4: Do I need a license to work as a plumber in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio requires licensing at the journeyman and master levels. Apprentices work under licensed plumbers. Licensing is managed at the local/city level (e.g., Columbus, Cleveland), not statewide.
Q5: Can plumbers in Ohio work remotely?
No—plumbing is hands-on. However, some entrepreneurs manage teams or handle scheduling/marketing remotely while field techs do the physical work.
Q6: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Ohio?
Industrial or commercial plumbing (e.g., in manufacturing plants or hospitals) often pays the most, especially with overtime and hazard pay. Master plumbers who own businesses also top the earnings chart.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make in Ohio? The answer ranges from $42,000 for beginners to over $90,000 for experienced professionals—with solid growth potential, job security, and low student debt risk. Whether you’re starting an apprenticeship or considering a career change, plumbing offers a clear path to financial independence in the Buckeye State.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone exploring trade careers—on Facebook, LinkedIn, or your local community board. Skilled trades like plumbing keep our homes safe, our water flowing, and our economy running. They deserve more attention.
Stay informed. Stay skilled. And don’t let a great career go down the drain. 💧🔧
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