If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or you’re already in the trade and wondering if joining a union is worth it—you’re not alone. One of the most common questions aspiring and current tradespeople ask is: “How much does a union plumber make in Chicago?” The answer isn’t just about a number—it’s about stability, benefits, overtime, and long-term earning potential. In this guide, we’ll break down the real earnings, compare union vs. non-union pay, and show you exactly what to expect in one of America’s busiest plumbing markets.
What Is the Average Salary for a Union Plumber in Chicago?
As of 2025, union plumbers in Chicago earn an average base hourly wage of $48 to $55, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local union contracts. When you factor in overtime, benefits, and pension contributions, total annual compensation often exceeds $100,000—especially for journeymen with 5+ years of experience.
For context:
- Apprentice plumbers (Year 1–2): $22–$30/hour
- Mid-level journeymen (Year 3–5): $40–$50/hour
- Senior union plumbers (5+ years): $50–$60+/hour
Many union contracts in Chicago, particularly through UA Local 130 (United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters), include automatic annual wage increases, healthcare coverage, and retirement plans—making the total compensation package significantly more valuable than base pay alone.
💡 Pro Tip: Union plumbers in Chicago often work on commercial, industrial, and high-rise residential projects—sectors that typically pay 20–30% more than standard residential jobs.
Union vs. Non-Union Plumber Pay in Chicago: What’s the Difference?
One of the biggest decisions for plumbers in Chicago is whether to join a union. Here’s how the pay and benefits stack up:
| Hourly Wage | $48–$60+ | $30–$45 |
| Overtime Pay | Guaranteed 1.5x after 8 hrs/day | Varies; often not guaranteed |
| Health Insurance | Fully covered (medical, dental, vision) | Rarely offered or employee-paid |
| Pension Plan | Yes (defined benefit) | Rarely offered |
| Job Security | High (collective bargaining) | Variable |
| Training & Advancement | Paid apprenticeships, certifications | Self-funded or employer-dependent |
Union plumbers also benefit from standardized work rules and dispatch systems that ensure consistent work—especially during economic downturns. Non-union plumbers may earn more on paper in rare cases (e.g., owning a successful small business), but they lack the safety net and long-term financial security unions provide.
What Factors Influence a Union Plumber’s Earnings in Chicago?
Not all union plumbers earn the same. Several key variables affect your paycheck:
1. Experience Level
Apprentices start at ~50% of journeyman wages and receive raises every 6–12 months. After 5 years, you’re typically at top scale.
2. Type of Work
- Residential: Lower pay, fewer benefits
- Commercial/Industrial: Higher hourly rates, more overtime
- Public Works (e.g., city infrastructure): Often includes prevailing wage laws that boost pay
3. Overtime & Seasonality
Chicago’s construction boom in spring/summer means 60–70 hour weeks are common—pushing annual earnings well above $120,000 for dedicated workers.
4. Union Local & Contract Terms
UA Local 130 negotiates strong contracts. Other locals may offer slightly different terms, but Chicago’s union plumbing wages are among the highest in the Midwest.
How to Become a Union Plumber in Chicago: Step-by-Step
Want to earn union wages? Here’s how to get started:
- Meet Basic Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a basic math and reading test
- Apply to UA Local 130 Apprenticeship Program
Visit www.ua130.org to apply during open enrollment (typically once per year). - Complete 5 Years of Paid Training
- 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training
- 576+ hours of classroom instruction
- Earn while you learn: wages increase each year
- Pass Journeyman Exam
After completing the program, take the state licensing exam to become a licensed journeyman plumber in Illinois. - Start Earning Top Scale
Once certified, you’ll be dispatched to union jobs paying full wage + benefits.
📌 Note: Competition is high—only ~100–150 apprentices are accepted annually out of 1,000+ applicants. Strong math skills and mechanical aptitude improve your chances.
Real-Life Example: A Day in the Life of a Chicago Union Plumber
Meet Carlos R., a 32-year-old journeyman with UA Local 130:
- Hourly Rate: $53
- Weekly Hours: 50 (10 hrs overtime at 1.5x = $795 extra/week)
- Monthly Take-Home: ~$8,200 before taxes
- Benefits: Full family health coverage, $1,200/month pension contribution, paid vacations
“I used to work non-union and barely scraped by in winter,” Carlos says. “Now I have stability, respect, and a future. My kids’ college fund is already growing.”
FAQ: Common Questions About Union Plumber Salaries in Chicago
Q: Do union plumbers in Chicago make six figures?
A: Yes—many do. With overtime, a journeyman plumber working 50–60 hours/week can easily earn $100,000–$130,000 annually. Senior plumbers on large-scale projects (e.g., hospitals, skyscrapers) may earn even more.
Q: Are union plumber jobs hard to get in Chicago?
A: Getting into the apprenticeship is competitive, but once you’re in, job placement is nearly guaranteed. UA Local 130 has a 95%+ placement rate for graduates.
Q: What’s the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter in Chicago unions?
A: Both fall under UA Local 130, but pipefitters specialize in high-pressure systems (HVAC, gas, industrial piping) and often earn 5–10% more due to technical complexity.
Q: Do union plumbers pay dues? How much?
A: Yes. Dues are typically 2–3% of gross wages (e.g., $60/week on a $2,000 paycheck). This covers representation, training, and benefits administration.
Q: Can women become union plumbers in Chicago?
A: Absolutely. UA Local 130 actively recruits women and offers mentorship programs. Female apprentices now make up ~12% of new classes—up from 3% a decade ago.
Q: Is plumbing a good career in Chicago long-term?
A: Extremely. With aging infrastructure, new construction, and green building initiatives, demand for skilled plumbers is projected to grow 14% by 2030 (faster than average). Source: U.S. BLS
Conclusion: Is a Union Plumbing Career Worth It in Chicago?
If you’re looking for a stable, high-paying trade with benefits, job security, and upward mobility, becoming a union plumber in Chicago is one of the smartest career moves you can make. With average earnings well into six figures, full healthcare, and a pension, it’s a path that offers both financial freedom and dignity.
Whether you’re a high school grad, a veteran, or someone looking to switch careers, the union plumbing route provides a clear ladder to success—no college debt required.
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Note: Wage data reflects 2025 collective bargaining agreements and BLS regional reports. Individual earnings may vary based on employer, project type, and hours worked.
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