How Much Does a Tradesman Plumber Make in Texas?

Thinking about becoming a plumber in Texas—or already working in the trade and wondering if you’re earning what you’re worth? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople ask, “How much does a tradesman plumber make in Texas?”—especially as housing demand surges and infrastructure needs grow across the Lone Star State. In this guide, we’ll break down real earnings, regional pay differences, licensing impacts, and how you can maximize your income as a licensed plumber in Texas.

What Is a Tradesman Plumber in Texas?

In Texas, plumbing licenses are tiered by experience and responsibility. A “Tradesman Plumber” (officially called a Tradesman Plumber-Limited) is an entry-level licensed plumber authorized to work under the supervision of a Master Plumber.

According to the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners , a Tradesman Plumber-Limited can:

• Install or repair plumbing in one- and two-family dwellings
• Work only under direct supervision
• Not design systems or pull permits independently

This role is often the first licensed step after completing an apprenticeship—making salary expectations realistic but promising for career growth.

Average Salary: How Much Does a Tradesman Plumber Make in Texas?

As of 2025, the average annual salary for a Tradesman Plumber in Texas ranges between $42,000 and $58,000, depending on location, employer, and experience.

Here’s a breakdown from reliable labor data sources:

💡 Note: These figures reflect licensed Tradesman Plumbers. Unlicensed helpers or apprentices typically earn 20–30% less.

How Location Affects Plumbing Salaries in Texas

Texas is huge—both geographically and economically. Your paycheck can vary significantly based on where you work:

Highest-Paying Metro Areas for Tradesman Plumbers (2025):

1. Austin-Round Rock: $56,200/year
2. Dallas-Fort Worth: $54,800/year
3. Houston-The Woodlands: $53,100/year
4. San Antonio: $49,700/year
5. El Paso: $44,300/year

Urban centers with high construction activity and cost of living tend to offer higher wages—but also come with steeper expenses. Smaller towns may pay less but offer lower housing costs and less competition.

How Licensing Impacts Your Earnings

Becoming a licensed Tradesman Plumber isn’t just about legality—it directly boosts your income.

Step-by-step path to higher pay in Texas plumbing:

1. Complete 4,000 hours of supervised plumbing work (typically 2–3 years as an apprentice).
2. Pass the Tradesman Plumber-Limited exam ($60 application + $78 exam fee).
3. Work under a Master Plumber for 1–2 years.
4. Upgrade to Journeyman Plumber (requires 8,000 hours total)—average salary jumps to $62,000–$75,000.
5. Become a Master Plumber—top earners make $85,000+, with many running their own businesses.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor , licensed tradespeople earn 15–25% more than unlicensed counterparts—even at the same experience level.

Factors That Influence a Tradesman Plumber’s Income

Beyond location and license level, several variables affect your paycheck:

• Employer Type:
  • Residential contractors: $45K–$55K
  • Commercial firms: $50K–$62K
  • Union-affiliated jobs: Often include benefits + overtime (can push total comp to $65K+)
• Overtime & Emergency Calls:
  Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half after 40 hours. Emergency weekend/holiday calls can pay $75–$125/hour.
• Specialized Skills:
  Knowledge of tankless water heaters, gas line installation, or backflow prevention can add $3–$8/hour to your rate.
• Seasonality:
  Summer = AC-related plumbing (condensate lines). Winter = frozen pipe emergencies. Smart plumbers plan for year-round income streams.

Tradesman vs. Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: Salary Comparison

💡 Pro Tip: Many successful plumbing entrepreneurs started as Tradesman Plumbers. Licensing is your career ladder—not a ceiling.

For more on plumbing roles globally, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing .

How to Increase Your Earnings as a Tradesman Plumber

Want to move from $50K to $70K+? Try these proven strategies:

1. Get Cross-Certified: Add certifications in green plumbing, medical gas, or solar water heating.
2. Track Overtime: Log every extra hour—many employers underreport.
3. Join a Union: Local 627 (UA) in Dallas or Local 146 in Houston offer wage protection and training.
4. Build a Side Gig: Offer weekend drain cleaning or fixture installs via apps like Thumbtack or Angi.
5. Document Your Work: Use photos and client testimonials to justify raises or freelance rates.

FAQ: How Much Does a Tradesman Plumber Make in Texas?

Q1: Do I need a license to work as a plumber in Texas?

Yes. As of 2024, Texas reinstated statewide plumbing licensing after a brief pause. Working without a license can result in fines up to $5,000 per violation.

Q2: How long does it take to become a Tradesman Plumber in Texas?

Typically 2–3 years of apprenticeship (4,000 supervised hours) plus passing the state exam. Some trade schools accelerate this with classroom credit.

Q3: Can a Tradesman Plumber work independently?

No. By law, Tradesman Plumbers must work under the direct supervision of a Master Plumber. You cannot pull permits or run your own plumbing business at this level.

Q4: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job in Texas?

Master Plumbers who own businesses—especially those specializing in commercial, industrial, or emergency services—often earn $90,000–$130,000/year.

Q5: Are plumbing jobs in demand in Texas?

Absolutely. The BLS projects 16% growth for plumbers in Texas through 2030—faster than the national average—driven by population growth and aging infrastructure.

Q6: Do plumbers in Texas get benefits?

It depends on your employer. Union and large contractors often offer health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Self-employed plumbers must secure their own.

Conclusion

So, how much does a tradesman plumber make in Texas? Realistically, between $42,000 and $58,000—with a clear path to $75,000+ as you advance your license and skills. Texas offers strong demand, diverse opportunities, and a booming construction market that values skilled tradespeople.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, your plumbing career in Texas has serious earning potential.

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