Thinking about becoming a plumber—or just wondering if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. If you’ve ever asked, “How much does a plumber make per year?”, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down real salary data, regional differences, and the key factors that can significantly increase a plumber’s income—all backed by the latest labor statistics and industry insights.
What Is the Average Plumber Salary in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090 as of May 2023. This means half of all plumbers earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
But averages only tell part of the story. Earnings can vary widely based on experience, location, specialization, and whether you work for a company or run your own business.
Location plays a huge role in plumbing income. High cost-of-living states often offer higher wages to compensate—but not always. Here are the top 5 highest-paying states for plumbers in 2024:
Illinois – $89,150
Alaska – $87,940
Massachusetts – $85,720
New Jersey – $84,330
Hawaii – $83,210
Conversely, states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and South Dakota report average plumber salaries below $50,000 annually.
💡 Pro Tip: Urban areas within high-paying states—like Chicago, Boston, or Newark—often offer even higher rates due to demand and commercial project volume.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Earnings?
Several key variables determine how much a plumber makes per year:
Certification & Licensing: Journeyman and master plumbers earn significantly more than apprentices. In many states, becoming a master plumber requires 4–5 years of experience plus passing a rigorous exam.
Specialization: Plumbers who specialize in areas like medical gas installation, commercial plumbing, or green plumbing systems can command premium rates.
Self-Employment: Independent plumbers who own their businesses often earn more—but also handle overhead costs like insurance, marketing, and equipment.
Overtime & Emergency Calls: Many plumbers earn extra through after-hours emergency services (e.g., burst pipes at 2 a.m.), which can pay 1.5x to 2x standard rates.
For example, a licensed plumber in Los Angeles running their own shop might charge $125–$200/hour for emergency drain cleaning—compared to $75–$100/hour during regular business hours.
Apprentice vs. Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: Salary Breakdown
Understanding the career ladder is crucial to estimating long-term earning potential.
1. Apprentice Plumber
Typically paid 40–60% of a journeyman’s wage.
Earns while learning: $15–$22/hour ($31,000–$46,000/year).
Completes 4–5 years of on-the-job training + classroom instruction.
2. Journeyman Plumber
Fully licensed to work independently.
Average salary: $55,000–$75,000/year.
Can supervise apprentices but cannot pull permits in some states.
3. Master Plumber
Highest certification level.
Must pass an advanced exam and often have 2+ years as a journeyman.
Average salary: $80,000–$110,000+, especially in commercial or union roles.
Can own a plumbing business and pull permits.
📌 Note: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association) often earn 10–25% more than non-union counterparts, plus benefits like health insurance and pensions.
How to Increase Your Plumbing Income: 5 Proven Strategies
Want to boost your earnings beyond the national average? Here’s how top-earning plumbers do it:
Get Certified in High-Demand Niches Certifications in backflow prevention, solar water heating, or trenchless sewer repair can add $10,000–$20,000 to your annual income.
Start Your Own Business After gaining experience, launching a solo plumbing service lets you keep 100% of profits. Many successful one-person shops net $80,000–$120,000/year after expenses.
Offer 24/7 Emergency Services Charge premium rates for nights, weekends, and holidays. One emergency call can earn $300–$600 in a single job.
Upsell Preventative Maintenance Plans Offer annual plumbing inspections or water heater flushes for recurring revenue—$150–$300 per customer per year.
Work in Commercial or Industrial Settings Commercial plumbers often earn 20–30% more than residential ones due to complex systems and higher liability.
Plumbing Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades
How does plumbing stack up against similar careers? Here’s a quick comparison (2023 BLS data):
Plumber
$60,090
Electrician
$60,240
HVAC Technician
$51,390
Carpenter
$55,590
Welder
$47,540
Plumbing consistently ranks among the highest-paying skilled trades, especially when factoring in overtime and self-employment opportunities.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Q: Do plumbers really make six figures? A: Yes—especially master plumbers, business owners, or those in high-demand areas. Top 10% of earners made over $100,000 in 2023, with some exceeding $150,000 through commercial contracts or emergency services.
Q: How long does it take to become a high-earning plumber? A: Most plumbers reach $70,000+ within 5–7 years of starting their apprenticeship. Faster growth is possible with entrepreneurship or specialization.
Q: Is plumbing a stable career? A: Extremely. Plumbing is recession-resistant—people always need working toilets, showers, and pipes. The BLS projects 5% job growth from 2022–2032, faster than average.
Q: Can I make good money as a part-time plumber? A: Yes, especially for side gigs like weekend drain cleaning or fixture installations. Many handymen add plumbing services to increase hourly rates by $20–$40/hour.
Q: Are plumbing salaries taxed differently? A: No—but self-employed plumbers must pay self-employment tax (15.3%) and manage quarterly estimated taxes. Always consult a CPA.
Q: Do female plumbers earn the same as male plumbers? A: In union and licensed roles, pay is typically equal. However, women remain underrepresented (<5% of the workforce), which can sometimes lead to higher demand—and rates—in certain markets.
Conclusion
So, how much does a plumber make per year? The answer ranges from $40,000 for beginners to over $150,000 for seasoned professionals—with the median sitting around $60,000. With strong job security, low student debt (compared to college degrees), and multiple paths to six-figure income, plumbing is a smart, future-proof career choice.
If you’re considering this trade—or just curious about its earning potential—we hope this guide gave you clear, actionable insights.
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