Thinking about becoming a plumber in Illinois—or already in the trade and curious if joining a union is worth it? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople want to know how much a union plumber makes in Illinois, especially when weighing job stability, benefits, and long-term income. In this guide, we’ll break down the real numbers, compare union vs. non-union earnings, and show you what it takes to maximize your paycheck in the Land of Lincoln.
What Is the Average Salary for a Union Plumber in Illinois?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local union wage reports, union plumbers in Illinois earn significantly more than their non-union counterparts—thanks to standardized pay scales, benefits, and overtime protections.
As of 2025:
- Average hourly wage: $42–$55/hour
- Average annual salary: $87,000–$115,000
- Top earners (with overtime and experience): Up to $130,000/year
These figures include base pay and typically exclude overtime, which union plumbers often receive at 1.5x their regular rate after 40 hours per week.
💡 Fun fact: Chicago—which accounts for nearly half of Illinois’ union plumbing jobs—has one of the highest union wage scales in the Midwest due to strong collective bargaining agreements.
How Does Union Pay Compare to Non-Union Plumbing Wages?
Let’s look at the numbers side by side:
| Category | Union Plumber (IL) | Non-Union Plumber (IL) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Hourly Wage | $42–$55 | $25–$38 |
| Annual Salary (40 hrs/wk) | $87,000–$115,000 | $52,000–$79,000 |
| Health Insurance | Fully or partially covered | Rarely included |
| Pension/Retirement Plan | Yes (through union) | Self-funded or none |
| Paid Time Off | Standardized (8–10 days + holidays) | Varies by employer |
| Overtime Pay | Guaranteed (1.5x after 40 hrs) | Not always honored |
Union plumbers also benefit from job security, consistent work assignments, and access to high-profile commercial projects (e.g., hospitals, schools, and high-rises), which often pay premium rates.
For more on labor unions in skilled trades, see Wikipedia’s overview of trade unions in the U.S..
What Factors Affect a Union Plumber’s Pay in Illinois?
Not all union plumbers earn the same. Your income depends on several key factors:
- Experience Level:
- Apprentices earn 40–60% of journeyman wages (often $18–$28/hour).
- Journeymen earn the full scale after 4–5 years of training.
- Foremen or master plumbers can earn $60+/hour.
- Location:
- Chicago & Cook County: Highest wages due to cost of living and union density.
- Springfield, Peoria, Rockford: Slightly lower but still above national averages.
- Type of Work:
- Residential: Steady but lower pay.
- Commercial/Industrial: Higher pay, more overtime, and complex systems (e.g., HVAC integration, gas lines).
- Union Local:
Illinois has multiple UA (United Association) locals, such as UA Local 130 (Chicago) and UA Local 189 (Quincy). Each negotiates its own wage scale. Local 130, for example, offers some of the highest wages in the state.
How to Become a Union Plumber in Illinois: Step-by-Step
If you’re inspired by those salary figures, here’s how to join the ranks:
- 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 a Union Apprenticeship:
- Contact your nearest UA Local Union (e.g., UA Local 130)
- Submit an application during open enrollment (usually once or twice a year)
- Complete a 5-Year Apprenticeship:
- 8,000–10,000 hours of on-the-job training
- 576+ hours of classroom instruction
- Paid while you learn (starting at ~50% of journeyman wage)
- Pass the Journeyman Exam:
- Administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health or local union
- Covers plumbing codes, safety, and system design
- Start Earning Union Wages:
Once certified, you’ll be placed on union job sites with full benefits and wage scale protections.
⏱️ Timeline: From application to full journeyman status typically takes 4–5 years, but you’re earning a paycheck from day one.
Union Plumber Benefits Beyond Salary
While the paycheck is impressive, the total compensation package is what truly sets union plumbers apart:
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision for you and your family
- Pension Plan: Defined-benefit retirement (e.g., $2,500+/month after 30 years)
- Annuity & 401(k): Additional retirement savings options
- Legal & Job Protection: Union representation in disputes
- Continuing Education: Free or low-cost training on green plumbing, backflow prevention, and more
In fact, a 2023 study by the Economic Policy Institute found that union workers earn 11.2% more on average than non-union peers—and that gap widens when benefits are included.
FAQs: How Much Does a Union Plumber Make in Illinois?
Q1: Do union plumbers in Illinois make more than $100,000 a year?
Yes—many do. With regular overtime (common in construction), experienced union plumbers in Chicago and surrounding areas routinely earn $100,000–$130,000 annually.
Q2: Are union plumber wages the same across Illinois?
No. Wages vary by local union chapter and region. Chicago (UA Local 130) pays the highest, while smaller towns may have slightly lower scales—but still above non-union averages.
Q3: How much do apprentice plumbers make in Illinois?
Apprentices start at 40–50% of journeyman wages ($18–$28/hour) and receive raises every 1,000 hours of work. Most earn over $40,000 in their final apprenticeship year.
Q4: Is it hard to get into a union plumbing program in Illinois?
It’s competitive but not impossible. UA Local 130 receives hundreds of applications each cycle but accepts 50–100 new apprentices annually. Strong math skills and a clean background improve your chances.
Q5: Do union plumbers get paid during training?
Yes! Unlike many trade schools, union apprenticeships are paid positions from day one—so you earn while you learn.
Q6: Can women become union plumbers in Illinois?
Absolutely. Unions actively encourage diversity. Programs like UA’s “Go Build” initiative support women and underrepresented groups entering the trades.
Conclusion
So, how much does a union plumber make in Illinois? The answer: $87,000–$130,000 per year, with top-tier benefits, job security, and a clear path to financial stability. Whether you’re starting your career or considering a switch into the trades, joining a plumbing union in Illinois could be one of the smartest financial decisions you’ll ever make.
If this guide helped you understand your earning potential, share it with someone considering a career in the trades! 💧🔧
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