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

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

If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or maybe you’re just curious about what skilled tradespeople earn in Ontario—you’re not alone. With rising demand for reliable home services and an aging workforce, plumbers are more in demand than ever. But here’s the real question: How much does a plumber make in Ontario a year? Is it enough to support a family? Can you actually build wealth in this trade?

The answer isn’t just a number—it’s a story of skill, experience, location, and opportunity. And we’re going to break it all down for you, clearly and honestly, so you can make an informed decision.

What’s the Average Annual Salary for Plumbers in Ontario?

According to data from Jobbank.gc.ca (Canada’s official government labor site) and industry surveys from 2024–2025, the average annual salary for a licensed plumber in Ontario is between $65,000 and $85,000.

But here’s the twist: that’s just the average. Your actual earnings can vary dramatically based on:

• Years of experience
• Urban vs. rural work locations
• Whether you work for a company or run your own business
• Overtime, emergency calls, and seasonal demand

Let’s break it down further.

💡 Pro Tip: Many plumbers in Ontario work 45–55 hours per week during peak seasons (winter for heating repairs, spring for plumbing inspections). That overtime can add $10,000–$20,000+ to your annual income.

How Do Hourly Rates Compare Across Ontario Cities?

Location matters—big time. A plumber in Toronto doesn’t earn the same as one in Sudbury or Windsor. Here’s how hourly rates stack up across major Ontario cities (2025 data):

Source: Ontario College of Trades Wage Surveys, 2024

📌 Real Story: Maria, a journeyman plumber in Toronto, told us: “I started at $22/hour as an apprentice. Five years later, I’m making $58/hour—and I just took on my first commercial contract. Last winter, I did 17 emergency calls on weekends. That added $14,000 to my year.”

Do Plumbers Earn Bonuses or Extra Income?

Absolutely. Plumbing isn’t just about fixing leaky faucets. Here’s how plumbers boost their income beyond base pay:

• Emergency Call-Outs: Most companies pay 1.5x–2x hourly rate for after-hours, weekend, or holiday service.
• Seasonal Bonuses: Many employers offer $1,000–$5,000 bonuses in winter for handling heating system emergencies.
• Referral Bonuses: If you refer new customers to your employer, expect $50–$200 per lead.
• Side Hustles: Many plumbers run part-time businesses on weekends—installing water filters, fixing sump pumps, or offering home inspections.
• Union Perks: If you’re with the United Association (UA) Local 270 (Toronto) or Local 19 (Ottawa), you get pensions, health benefits, and paid training.

🧠 Expert Insight: “Plumbing is one of the few skilled trades where you can go from apprentice to owner in under a decade—with zero student debt,” says David Chen, CEO of Ontario Plumbing Pros. “You invest your time, not tuition. And the return? It’s real.”

How Does Plumbing Compare to Other Skilled Trades in Ontario?

Let’s put plumbing into perspective. Here’s how plumber salaries stack up against other in-demand trades:

✅ Bottom Line: Plumbing sits firmly in the top tier of skilled trades in Ontario—not just for pay, but for long-term stability.

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

If you’re thinking, “I want to earn this—but how do I start?” Here’s your roadmap:

1. Complete High School (or equivalent) – Focus on math, science, and shop classes.
2. Apply for an Apprenticeship – Register with the Ontario College of Trades. Find employers through Ontario Apprenticeship or unions like UA Local 270.
3. Work 4 Years (8,000 Hours) – You’ll split time between on-the-job training (80%) and classroom instruction (20%).
4. Pass the Certificate of Qualification Exam – Administered by the Ontario College of Trades. Pass rate: ~85%.
5. Get Your License & Insurance – Required to legally work independently.
6. Consider Master Plumber Certification – Add 2+ years of experience + pass another exam. Lets you pull permits and run your own business.

📚 Did You Know? The Government of Canada estimates over 20,000 new plumbing jobs will open in Ontario by 2030 due to retirements and new construction. Learn more on Wikipedia .

Is Plumbing a Good Career in 2025? 5 Reasons Why It Is

1. No Student Debt – Unlike university, apprenticeships pay you while you learn.
2. Job Security – Pipes don’t stop leaking because of recessions.
3. Work You Can Be Proud Of – You solve real problems: clean water, safe homes, no floods.
4. Flexible Hours – Many plumbers set their own schedules, especially as business owners.
5. Upside Potential – With a few years of experience, you can earn more than many college grads.

❌ The Flip Side?

• Physical strain (lifting, kneeling, crawling under homes)
• Early mornings and weekend emergencies
• Need for constant learning (new codes, eco-tech, smart systems)

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Plumber Salaries in Ontario Answered

Q1: How much does a first-year apprentice plumber make in Ontario?

First-year apprentices typically earn $18–$22/hour, which is about 40–50% of a journeyman’s rate. As you progress (every 1,000 hours), your wage increases by 5–10%. By year 4, you’re likely making $30+/hour.

Q2: Do plumbers make more than electricians in Ontario?

On average, electricians earn slightly more—especially in commercial settings. But plumbers often have more consistent residential work year-round. In rural areas, plumbers can out-earn electricians due to septic and well system demands.

Q3: Can a plumber make $100,000+ in Ontario?

Yes—easily. A journeyman working 50+ hours/week with overtime, emergency calls, and seasonal bonuses can hit $100K+ without owning a business. Master plumbers or business owners often earn $120K–$180K, especially in GTA suburbs.

Q4: Is plumbing a good career for someone over 30?

Absolutely. Many people switch to plumbing in their 30s and 40s. The apprenticeship program is designed for adults. Your life experience helps with customer service, problem-solving, and reliability—qualities clients value more than age.

Q5: Do I need a college degree to become a plumber?

No. You don’t need a college degree. You need a 4-year apprenticeship, passing the certification exam, and a license. Many plumbers never set foot in a university—and they’re thriving.

Q6: Are there opportunities for women in plumbing in Ontario?

Yes—and growing fast. Organizations like Women in Trades Ontario and Skilled Trades Ontario actively support women entering the field. Female plumbers are in high demand for jobs in homes, schools, and healthcare facilities where clients prefer female technicians.

Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing Worth It in Ontario?

So, back to our original question: How much does a plumber make in Ontario a year?

The answer? Between $65,000 and $140,000+—depending on your drive, location, and willingness to work hard.

This isn’t just a job. It’s a career path with real financial upside, zero student loans, and the satisfaction of building something tangible every single day.

Whether you’re a teenager exploring trades, a parent looking for a stable second career, or someone tired of the 9-to-5 grind—plumbing offers a rare blend of financial freedom, personal dignity, and job security.

If this resonates with you, take the first step today:
👉 Visit Ontario Apprenticeship to find local employers.
👉 Talk to a union rep or local plumbing company.
👉 Ask: “Do you take apprentices?”

And if you found this guide helpful? Share it with someone you know who’s looking for a real career—not just a job.

💬 Tag a friend who’s wondering what to do with their future. Plumbing might be their perfect fit.