Thinking about going solo as a plumber—or already running your own business and wondering if you’re earning what you’re worth? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople ask: “How much does a self-employed plumber make?” The answer isn’t just a number—it depends on location, experience, client base, and how you run your business. In this guide, we’ll break down real-world income data, share expert insights, and help you understand what truly drives earnings in the plumbing trade.
What Is the Average Income for a Self-Employed Plumber in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers (including both employed and self-employed) was $60,090 in 2023. However, self-employed plumbers often earn significantly more—typically $65,000 to $120,000 per year, with top performers clearing $150,000+.
Why the gap? Self-employed plumbers:
- Set their own rates
- Keep 100% of profits (minus expenses)
- Can scale services (e.g., emergency calls, drain cleaning, installation)
💡 “I started solo at $75,000 a year and hit $140,000 by year three—just by improving scheduling and adding water heater installations,” says Maria Lopez, a licensed plumber in Austin, TX.
Keep in mind: These figures are gross income. You’ll need to subtract business costs (insurance, tools, vehicle, taxes, etc.).
Key Factors That Influence a Self-Employed Plumber’s Earnings
1. Geographic Location
Plumbers in high-cost, high-demand areas earn more:
| California | $95,000 – $140,000 |
| New York | $90,000 – $135,000 |
| Texas | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Ohio | $60,000 – $95,000 |
Urban centers like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle pay premium rates due to housing density and emergency service demand.
2. Experience & Specialization
General plumbers earn less than those with niche skills:
- Gas line installation: +20–30% premium
- Commercial plumbing: Higher project fees
- Green plumbing (tankless, water-saving): Growing market with premium pricing
Entry-level solo plumbers may start at $50K, while veterans with certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, medical gas) can charge $125+/hour.
3. Business Model & Pricing Strategy
Self-employed plumbers use different pricing:
- Hourly rate: $75–$150/hour (common for repairs)
- Flat-rate pricing: $150–$500 per job (e.g., faucet replacement)
- Service contracts: $800–$2,000/year per client (recurring revenue)
Pro tip: Top earners combine all three—using hourly for diagnostics, flat rates for common fixes, and contracts for maintenance.
Realistic Net Profit After Expenses
Being your own boss means managing costs. Typical annual expenses include:
- Vehicle & fuel: $8,000–$15,000
- Tools & equipment: $3,000–$7,000
- Liability insurance: $1,200–$3,000
- Licensing & continuing education: $300–$800
- Marketing (website, ads): $1,500–$5,000
- Self-employment taxes (15.3%): Varies
Net income example:
- Gross revenue: $100,000
- Total expenses: $30,000
- Net profit: ~$70,000
For more on business structures and tax implications, see this overview of sole proprietorships on Wikipedia .
Pros vs. Cons of Being a Self-Employed Plumber
| Full control over schedule | Irregular income (slow months) |
| Higher earning potential | No paid vacation or sick days |
| Build your own brand | Must handle admin (invoices, taxes) |
| Choose your clients & projects | Liability risks if uninsured |
Despite the challenges, 85% of self-employed plumbers say they’d choose independence again (2024 National Trade Survey).
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Self-Employed Plumber
Follow these 5 proven steps:
- Get certified in high-demand specialties
→ Example: Take a drain camera inspection course ($500–$1,200). Charge $200+ per diagnostic. - Optimize your service area
→ Focus on neighborhoods with older homes (more repairs) or new developments (installation jobs). - Raise your rates annually
→ Increase by 5–10% each year. Most clients expect it. - Offer maintenance packages
→ Create a “Plumbing Wellness Plan” at $120/year (includes 2 inspections + 10% off repairs). - Leverage online reviews & local SEO
→ 92% of homeowners hire plumbers with 4.7+ stars on Google. Ask every satisfied client to leave a review.
FAQ: How Much Does a Self-Employed Plumber Make?
Q1: Do self-employed plumbers make more than employed plumbers?
Yes—typically 20–40% more after a few years. Employed plumbers average $55K–$75K with benefits, but self-employed plumbers keep all profits and scale income faster.
Q2: How many jobs per week do most solo plumbers handle?
Most handle 15–25 jobs/week, including small fixes (30–60 mins) and larger installs (3–6 hours). Efficiency is key—top earners use routing apps to minimize drive time.
Q3: What’s the biggest expense for self-employed plumbers?
Taxes and vehicle costs top the list. Many forget to set aside 25–30% of income for quarterly taxes.
Q4: Can you make six figures as a solo plumber?
Absolutely. With 4–5 high-value jobs per week ($200–$500 each), you can easily hit $100K+ gross. Add emergency callouts ($150–$300 after hours), and it’s sustainable.
Q5: How long does it take to become profitable?
Most break even in 6–12 months. Success hinges on marketing, pricing, and client retention—not just technical skill.
Q6: Is plumbing a good career for financial independence?
Yes. With low startup costs ($5K–$15K), high demand (U.S. plumber shortage projected through 2030), and recession-resistant services, plumbing offers strong long-term income potential.
Conclusion
So, how much does a self-employed plumber make? Realistically, between $65,000 and $150,000+ per year—depending on your hustle, location, and business savvy. While it’s not a “get rich quick” path, it’s one of the most reliable skilled trades for building sustainable, independent income.
If you’re considering going solo, start by tracking your local rates, getting key certifications, and building a simple online presence. Every top-earning plumber started with one call, one tool belt, and the courage to charge what they’re worth.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow tradesperson on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram! 💧🔧
Your success in the trades isn’t just about pipes—it’s about building a legacy, one honest job at a time.
Leave a Reply