How Much Does the Average Plumber Make an Hour?

If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or simply wondering what plumbers earn—you’re not alone. Many people ask, “How much does the average plumber make an hour?” Whether you’re exploring trade careers, budgeting for home repairs, or comparing job markets, understanding plumber wages helps you make informed decisions. Let’s break down the numbers, explore what influences pay, and uncover real-world insights you won’t find in a quick Google search.

What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2024, the median hourly wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $29.83 per hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $62,040 for full-time work.

But “average” can be misleading. Entry-level plumbers may start around $18–$22/hour, while experienced, licensed master plumbers in high-demand areas can earn $50+/hour—especially if they run their own businesses or specialize in commercial or emergency services.

💡 Pro Tip: Location, certification level, and industry (residential vs. industrial) dramatically impact hourly rates.

What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Pay?

Several key variables determine how much a plumber earns per hour:

1. Geographic Location
   Plumbers in urban centers or states with high costs of living (e.g., California, New York, Massachusetts) typically earn more. For example:
   • California: Avg. $35.20/hour
   • Texas: Avg. $27.60/hour
   • Ohio: Avg. $25.10/hour
2. Experience & Certification Level
   • Apprentice: $15–$22/hour (while training)
   • Journeyman: $25–$35/hour (licensed, 2–5 years experience)
   • Master Plumber: $35–$60+/hour (advanced license, often runs a business)
3. Employment Type
   • Self-employed plumbers often charge $75–$150/hour but must cover overhead (insurance, tools, marketing).
   • Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association) may earn higher wages with benefits.
   • Government or industrial plumbers sometimes receive premium pay for hazardous or complex work.
4. Specialization
   Plumbers who specialize in areas like medical gas piping, green plumbing, or high-rise commercial systems command higher rates due to niche expertise.

For more on occupational classifications, see the U.S. BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook (linked via authoritative Wikipedia reference on Plumber (occupation) ).

How Do Plumber Wages Compare to Other Skilled Trades?

Let’s put plumbing pay in context with similar blue-collar professions (2024 BLS data):

Plumbers rank among the highest-paid skilled trades, often outearning college graduates in certain fields—without the student debt.

📊 Fun Fact: The top 10% of plumbers earn over $100,000 annually, proving this trade offers serious earning potential.

Apprentice vs. Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: Pay Breakdown

Understanding career progression helps set realistic income expectations:

1. Apprentice Plumber

• Duration: 4–5 years of paid on-the-job training + classroom instruction
• Hourly Pay: $15–$22
• Key Detail: Apprentices earn while they learn—no college tuition required.

2. Journeyman Plumber

• Requirements: Pass state licensing exam after apprenticeship
• Hourly Pay: $25–$35
• Responsibilities: Can work independently, diagnose issues, install full systems.

3. Master Plumber

• Requirements: 2+ years as journeyman + advanced exam
• Hourly Pay: $35–$60+ (or $100–$200/hr for emergency calls)
• Perks: Can start a business, pull permits, design plumbing systems.

✅ Step-by-Step Path to Higher Pay:

1. Enroll in a state-approved plumbing apprenticeship (find via UA.org )
2. Complete 8,000+ hours of fieldwork
3. Pass journeyman exam
4. Gain 2+ years experience
5. Pass master plumber exam
6. Consider business licensing if going solo

Do Self-Employed Plumbers Earn More?

Yes—but with caveats.

A solo plumber might charge $85/hour, but after expenses (vehicle maintenance, insurance, software, taxes, marketing), net income often lands between $50–$70/hour.

Advantages of Self-Employment:

• Set your own rates
• Choose clients and projects
• Build equity in a business

Challenges:

• Inconsistent income (slow seasons)
• No paid time off or health benefits (unless self-provided)
• Must handle customer service, scheduling, and accounting

🛠️ Real-World Example:
Mike, a master plumber in Denver, runs a one-person shop. He charges $95/hour for standard calls and $150/hour for weekends/emergencies. After expenses, he nets ~$85,000/year—more than he earned working for a company, but with longer hours and higher stress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much do plumbers make starting out?
A: Entry-level apprentices typically earn $15–$22 per hour, with wages increasing each year of training. Most programs last 4–5 years.

Q2: Can plumbers make six figures?
A: Yes. Top earners—especially master plumbers in high-cost states or business owners—routinely make $100,000+ annually. Emergency services, commercial contracts, and team-based operations boost income further.

Q3: Do plumbers get paid overtime?
A: Salaried or union plumbers often receive 1.5x pay for hours over 40/week. Self-employed plumbers set their own overtime rates (commonly 1.5–2x standard rate).

Q4: Which states pay plumbers the most?
A: As of 2024, the highest-paying states are:

1. Illinois ($38.10/hr)
2. Alaska ($37.90/hr)
3. Hawaii ($36.80/hr)
4. New Jersey ($36.20/hr)
5. Massachusetts ($35.70/hr)
   (Source: U.S. BLS)

Q5: Is plumbing a stable career?
A: Extremely. Plumbing is recession-resistant—people always need working toilets and clean water. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, with over 48,000 openings yearly from retirements and new construction.

Q6: How can a plumber increase their hourly rate?
A: Get certified in specialties (e.g., backflow prevention, gas fitting), obtain a master license, move to a high-demand area, or start a business offering 24/7 emergency services.

Conclusion

So, how much does the average plumber make an hour? While the national median sits around $29.83, your actual earnings depend on skill level, location, and ambition. Plumbing isn’t just a job—it’s a lucrative, stable, and respected career with clear paths to financial independence.

Whether you’re a student weighing career options, a homeowner curious about labor costs, or a tradesperson planning your next move, understanding plumber wages empowers smarter decisions.

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