How Much Does a Plumber Make in Ontario? (2025 Salary Guide)

Thinking about becoming a plumber in Ontario—or just wondering if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. With skilled trades in high demand across Canada, many are asking: “How much does a plumber make in Ontario?” Whether you’re a student, career switcher, or just curious, this guide breaks down real earnings, factors that affect pay, and what you can expect at every career stage—all based on the latest official data.

What Is the Average Plumber Salary in Ontario?

According to Statistics Canada (2024) and Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, the median hourly wage for plumbers in Ontario is $32.50 CAD. That translates to an average annual salary of approximately $67,600 for full-time workers (based on 40 hours/week, 52 weeks/year).

But here’s the thing: plumbing salaries in Ontario vary widely—from entry-level apprentices earning around $20/hour to master plumbers or business owners pulling in $90,000+ annually.

Key Insight: Location matters. Plumbers in Toronto, Ottawa, or Mississauga often earn 10–15% more than those in rural areas due to higher living costs and project complexity.

How Do Plumber Salaries Compare Across Experience Levels?

Your earnings in plumbing grow significantly as you gain certifications and experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

💡 Note: Self-employed plumbers may earn more—but also cover insurance, tools, marketing, and vehicle costs. Profit margins vary based on clientele and workload.

What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings in Ontario?

Several key variables determine your paycheck:

• Certification Level: Ontario requires a Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) to work independently. Without it, you’re limited to supervised work at lower pay.
• Union vs. Non-Union: Unionized plumbers (e.g., through UA Local 46) often enjoy higher wages, benefits, and pension plans.
• Specialization: Expertise in commercial plumbing, gas fitting, or green tech (like tankless water heaters) can boost hourly rates by 15–25%.
• Overtime & Emergency Calls: Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half after 44 hours/week or charge premium rates for after-hours service (e.g., $120–$180/hour for weekend emergencies).
• Seasonality: Winter often brings more burst pipes and heating-related jobs—leading to higher income in colder months.

For deeper context, plumbing is part of Ontario’s Skilled Trades Strategy, which aims to fill 100,000+ trade vacancies by 2028—meaning strong job security and upward wage pressure. Learn more about skilled trades in Canada on Wikipedia .

How to Become a Licensed Plumber in Ontario (Step-by-Step)

If you’re serious about entering the field, here’s how to get started:

1. Complete High School (Grade 12 with Math and English recommended).
2. Find an Employer willing to hire you as an apprentice (use Ontario’s Skilled Trades Ontario portal ).
3. Register as an Apprentice with Skilled Trades Ontario (STO).
4. Work & Train: Complete 8,280 hours of on-the-job training + 720 hours of in-school training over 4–5 years.
5. Pass the C of Q Exam: Once eligible, write the provincial certification exam.
6. Maintain Certification: Renew every 2 years and consider additional endorsements (e.g., Gas Technician 3).

🛠️ Pro Tip: Many apprentices start earning while they learn—often with tuition support from employers or government grants like the Ontario Apprentice Incentive Grant.

Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career in Ontario

✅ Pros:

• High demand: Low unemployment in skilled trades (<3% in 2024).
• No student debt: Earn while you train—unlike many university paths.
• Career flexibility: Work for companies, go solo, or even start a franchise.
• Respect & stability: Essential service = recession-resistant income.

❌ Cons:

• Physical demands: Heavy lifting, tight spaces, and irregular hours.
• Licensing required: Can’t work independently without a C of Q.
• Startup costs: Self-employed plumbers need $10K–$25K for tools, van, and insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do plumbers in Ontario make six figures?

Yes—experienced master plumbers or business owners often earn $100,000+, especially in urban centers or with niche skills (e.g., commercial high-rises or medical gas systems).

Q2: How much do apprentice plumbers make in Ontario?

Apprentices typically start at $18–$22/hour in Year 1, rising to $26–$30/hour by Year 4 as skills and responsibilities increase.

Q3: Is plumbing a good career in Ontario?

Absolutely. With projected 10% job growth by 2030 (Ontario Ministry of Labour), strong wages, and multiple advancement paths, plumbing offers long-term stability and earning potential.

Q4: Are plumbers unionized in Ontario?

Many are. Unions like UA Local 46 (Toronto) or UA Local 274 (Ottawa) offer better pay, health benefits, and training—but membership is optional.

Q5: How much can I earn as a self-employed plumber?

Self-employed plumbers average $70,000–$120,000/year, with top earners clearing $150,000+ after expenses. Success depends on marketing, customer service, and workload management.

Q6: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Ontario?

Commercial or industrial plumbers working on large-scale projects (hospitals, factories, data centers) often earn the most—especially with dual certifications (e.g., plumbing + gas fitting).

Conclusion

So, how much does a plumber make in Ontario? The answer depends on your skills, location, and ambition—but $60,000–$100,000/year is very achievable with certification and experience. With Ontario facing a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople, now is an excellent time to consider plumbing as a stable, rewarding, and well-paid career.

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Data Sources: Statistics Canada (2024), Ontario Ministry of Labour, Skilled Trades Ontario, Canadian Apprenticeship Forum.