How Much Money Does a Plumber Make a Year? (2024 Salary Guide)

Thinking about becoming a plumber—or just wondering if it’s a financially smart career move? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. So, how much money does a plumber make a year, really? The answer isn’t just a single number—it depends on experience, location, certifications, and even your willingness to work overtime or start your own business. In this guide, we’ll break down the latest data so you can make an informed decision.

What Is the Average Plumber Salary in the U.S.?

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. That translates to about $28.89 per hour.

But “median” means half earn more, and half earn less. Here’s a clearer picture:

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

This wide range shows that plumbing isn’t just a “middle-income” job—it can be a six-figure career with the right strategy.

Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?

Location dramatically impacts earnings. Plumbers in high-cost or high-demand states often earn significantly more. Here are the top 5 highest-paying states for plumbers in 2023 (BLS data):

1. Illinois: $89,290
2. Alaska: $87,770
3. Massachusetts: $84,220
4. New Jersey: $83,480
5. Hawaii: $82,730

Conversely, states like Mississippi ($43,120) and South Dakota ($46,550) pay notably less.

💡 Pro Tip: Urban areas with aging infrastructure (like Chicago or Boston) often need more plumbers—and pay more for emergency or specialized services.

How Do Experience and Certifications Affect Earnings?

Your paycheck grows as you gain skills and credentials. Here’s how:

• Apprentice (0–4 years): Earn 50–70% of a journeyman’s wage while learning. Many programs pay $18–$25/hour from day one.
• Journeyman (4–8 years): Fully licensed, can work independently. Average: $55,000–$75,000/year.
• Master Plumber (8+ years + exam): Can run a business, pull permits, and train others. Top earners: $80,000–$110,000+.

Specialized certifications—like medical gas piping, backflow prevention, or green plumbing—can add 10–20% to your income. Some states even require them for certain jobs.

For more on licensing tiers, see the Wikipedia page on plumbing .

Can Plumbers Make Six Figures?

Yes—absolutely. While the national median is around $60K, many plumbers routinely earn over $100,000 annually. How?

• Overtime & Emergency Calls: Weekend or after-hours service often pays 1.5x to 2x normal rates.
• Self-Employment: Business owners keep 100% of profits (minus expenses). A solo plumber charging $125/hour for 30 billable hours/week = $195,000/year gross.
• Commercial or Industrial Work: These projects pay more than residential jobs due to complexity and scale.

📌 Real Example: Mike, a master plumber in Austin, Texas, runs a two-person shop. In 2023, his net income was $112,000 after expenses—thanks to recurring commercial contracts and weekend emergency calls.

Plumber Salary vs. Other Skilled Trades

How does plumbing stack up against similar careers? Here’s a quick comparison (2023 BLS data):

Plumbing holds its own—especially when you factor in lower student debt (most plumbers train via paid apprenticeships) and high job security (people always need running water!).

Steps to Maximize Your Plumbing Income

Want to climb the earnings ladder? Follow this roadmap:

1. Complete a Registered Apprenticeship (4–5 years): Combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Find programs via www.apprenticeship.gov .
2. Get Licensed in Your State: Requirements vary, but most require 2–5 years of experience + exam.
3. Earn Specialized Certifications: Focus on high-demand niches (e.g., tankless water heaters, sewer line video inspection).
4. Track Every Billable Minute: Use time-tracking apps to ensure you’re not leaving money on the table.
5. Start Your Own Business: Once licensed as a master plumber, consider going solo. Even a part-time side gig can boost income by $15K–$30K/year.

FAQ: How Much Money Does a Plumber Make a Year?

Q: Do plumbers really make good money?
A: Yes. The median is over $60K, but experienced or self-employed plumbers often earn $80K–$120K. With low education costs and high demand, plumbing offers strong ROI.

Q: How much do beginner plumbers make?
A: Apprentices typically earn $18–$25/hour ($37,000–$52,000/year). Pay increases each year as skills grow.

Q: Can you become a plumber without college?
A: Absolutely. Most plumbers train through paid apprenticeships, not college. A high school diploma or GED is usually the only formal requirement.

Q: Why do some plumbers charge so much?
A: Rates reflect expertise, insurance, tools, vehicle costs, and availability (e.g., 2 a.m. burst pipe calls). Top plumbers invest in diagnostics (like sewer cameras) that justify premium pricing.

Q: Is plumbing a dying trade?
A: No—it’s growing. The BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, with ~48,000 openings yearly from retirements and new construction. Aging infrastructure ensures steady demand.

Q: How much can a self-employed plumber earn?
A: After expenses, solo plumbers often net $70,000–$120,000/year. Those with teams or commercial contracts can exceed $150,000.

Conclusion

So, how much money does a plumber make a year? It ranges from $38,000 for beginners to over $100,000 for seasoned pros—with location, certifications, and business savvy making all the difference. Plumbing offers financial stability, job security, and a clear path to six figures without student loan debt.

If you’re considering this career—or just curious—you now have the real numbers to decide.

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