Thinking about a career in plumbing—or already in the trade and wondering if you’re earning what you’re worth? You’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople ask, “How much does an experienced plumber make a year?” The answer isn’t just a number—it depends on location, specialization, certifications, and years on the job. In this guide, we’ll break down the real earnings of experienced plumbers across the U.S., backed by the latest data and expert insights.
What Is the Average Salary for an Experienced Plumber?
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. However, that figure represents all plumbers—not just experienced ones.
For experienced plumbers (typically those with 5+ years in the field), earnings climb significantly:
- 25th percentile: ~$48,000
- Median (50th percentile): ~$68,000
- 75th percentile: ~$85,000
- Top 10%: Over $100,000 annually
These numbers reflect plumbers who’ve moved beyond entry-level roles, often handling complex residential or commercial projects, supervising teams, or running their own businesses.
💡 Pro Tip: Union plumbers or those with specialized certifications (e.g., in medical gas or backflow prevention) often earn 15–30% more than non-certified peers.
Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?
Location dramatically impacts earnings. Here’s a snapshot of the top 5 highest-paying states for experienced plumbers (BLS, 2023):
| 1 | Illinois | $92,260 |
| 2 | Alaska | $89,430 |
| 3 | Massachusetts | $87,760 |
| 4 | New Jersey | $86,520 |
| 5 | Hawaii | $84,910 |
Urban centers like Chicago, Boston, and Anchorage offer higher wages due to cost of living, union presence, and demand for skilled labor in aging infrastructure.
Conversely, states like Mississippi and Arkansas report average plumber salaries below $45,000—highlighting why geographic strategy matters for maximizing income.
How Does Experience Level Affect Plumber Salaries?
Experience isn’t just about time—it’s about skill depth, problem-solving ability, and client trust. Here’s how pay typically scales:
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $38,000–$48,000 | Assisting journeymen, basic installations |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $50,000–$65,000 | Independent service calls, code compliance |
| Experienced (5+ yrs) | $68,000–$100,000+ | Complex diagnostics, system design, mentoring |
| Master Plumber | $85,000–$120,000+ | Business ownership, permits, inspections |
Becoming a master plumber—which requires passing a state exam and often 2–4 additional years of experience—can unlock six-figure potential, especially in high-demand markets.
Do Self-Employed Plumbers Earn More?
Many experienced plumbers eventually go independent. While riskier, self-employment can significantly boost earnings:
- Hourly rates: $75–$150/hour (vs. $30–$50 for employed plumbers)
- Annual revenue: Top solo plumbers report $120,000–$200,000+ in gross income
- Profit margin: After expenses (vehicle, tools, insurance), net profit often ranges from $70,000 to $130,000
However, success requires business acumen—marketing, customer service, and scheduling matter as much as technical skill.
📌 Case Study: Mike R., a master plumber in Austin, TX, launched his one-person shop in 2020. By 2024, he employed two apprentices and averaged $142,000/year in personal take-home pay—thanks to emergency service premiums and recurring maintenance contracts.
What Certifications Boost a Plumber’s Income?
Specialized credentials can increase earnings by 10–30%. Top certifications include:
- Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT)
- Medical Gas Piping Certification (required for hospital work)
- Green Plumbing Certification (e.g., from the PHCC)
- OSHA 30-Hour Safety Certification
For example, plumbers certified in medical gas systems often work on high-budget healthcare projects, commanding $60–$90/hour versus the standard $40–$60.
You can learn more about plumbing specializations and licensing through authoritative sources like Wikipedia’s Plumbing page .
How to Maximize Your Earnings as an Experienced Plumber
Want to climb toward the top 10% of earners? Follow these actionable steps:
- Get Licensed as a Master Plumber
→ Opens doors to commercial contracts and supervision roles. - Specialize in High-Demand Niches
→ Focus on areas like tankless water heaters, sewer line repair, or smart plumbing systems. - Build a Strong Online Presence
→ 87% of homeowners search online before hiring a plumber (HomeAdvisor, 2024). A Google Business Profile with 5-star reviews can double your call volume. - Offer Emergency & Weekend Services
→ Charge 1.5x–2x standard rates for after-hours work. - Upskill with Continuing Education
→ Stay current on code changes (e.g., UPC vs. IPC) and new technologies like PEX-A expansion tools.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Q1: How much does an experienced plumber make a year in California?
A: In California, experienced plumbers average $78,500/year, with top earners in Los Angeles and San Francisco surpassing $105,000 due to high demand and cost of living.
Q2: Do plumbers really make six figures?
A: Yes—especially master plumbers in urban areas, union members, or business owners. The top 10% nationally earn over $103,730, and many self-employed plumbers exceed that after 5–7 years.
Q3: Is plumbing a stable career financially?
A: Extremely. Plumbing is recession-resistant—people always need running water and functioning drains. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, with even higher demand in aging infrastructure regions.
Q4: How long does it take to become an experienced plumber?
A: Most plumbers gain “experienced” status after 5+ years, which usually includes a 4–5 year apprenticeship plus journeyman licensing.
Q5: Are plumbing salaries higher than electrician salaries?
A: They’re comparable. In 2023, electricians averaged $60,240, while plumbers averaged $60,090. However, top-tier plumbers in specialized fields often out-earn general electricians.
Q6: Can I make more money working for a company or myself?
A: Short-term, companies offer stability. Long-term, self-employment has higher earning potential—but requires entrepreneurial effort. Many plumbers start employed, then launch side gigs before going full-time solo.
Conclusion
So, how much does an experienced plumber make a year? Realistically, between $68,000 and $100,000+, with top performers clearing six figures—especially in high-cost states or as business owners. With strong demand, low automation risk, and clear paths to advancement, plumbing remains one of the most financially rewarding skilled trades in America.
If you’re considering this career—or looking to level up your current one—now is an excellent time to invest in certifications, specialize, and build your reputation.
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