If you’re considering a career in plumbing—or just wondering whether plumbers really earn as much as people say—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 an hour? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but we’ll break down the latest data, regional differences, experience levels, and more—so you get a clear, realistic picture.
What Is the Average Hourly Wage for a Plumber in 2025?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and updated industry reports for 2025, the median hourly wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $29.87. That translates to roughly $62,130 per year for full-time work (based on 40 hours/week).
But here’s the twist: earnings can vary dramatically based on location, certification, employer type, and overtime.
| Apprentice | $17 – $22 | $35,360 – $45,760 |
| Journeyman | $25 – $35 | $52,000 – $72,800 |
| Master Plumber | $35 – $50+ | $72,800 – $104,000+ |
| Self-Employed (Owner) | $40 – $75+ | $83,200 – $156,000+ |
Note: Self-employed plumbers often charge higher hourly rates but must cover business expenses like insurance, tools, and marketing.
What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Hourly Pay?
Several key variables determine how much money a plumber makes an hour:
1. Geographic Location
Plumbers in high-cost or high-demand states earn significantly more. For example:
- Alaska: $38.20/hour (highest in the U.S.)
- Illinois: $36.10/hour
- New York: $35.75/hour
Meanwhile, states like Mississippi and Arkansas hover around $22–$24/hour.
💡 Why? Urban areas with older infrastructure, strict licensing, or labor shortages drive up wages.
2. Certification & Licensing Level
- Apprentices earn 40–60% of a journeyman’s rate while training (typically 4–5 years).
- Journeymen are fully licensed and can work independently.
- Master plumbers pass advanced exams and can run their own businesses or supervise teams—often commanding 20–40% higher rates.
3. Work Setting
- Residential plumbers: $25–$40/hour
- Commercial/industrial: $30–$50/hour (due to complex systems and safety requirements)
- Emergency or after-hours calls: Often 1.5x to 2x standard rates (e.g., $75–$125/hour for weekend burst-pipe repairs).
4. Union vs. Non-Union
Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association) typically earn 10–25% more and receive better benefits, though union entry can be competitive.
How Do Plumbers’ Earnings Compare to Other Skilled Trades?
Let’s put plumbing in context. Here’s how hourly wages stack up against similar trades (2025 BLS data):
| Electrician | $30.10 |
| HVAC Technician | $27.50 |
| Carpenter | $25.80 |
| Plumber | $29.87 |
| Welder | $23.40 |
Plumbing consistently ranks among the top 3 highest-paying skilled trades, especially when overtime and emergency calls are factored in.
For more on skilled trades, see the Wikipedia page on vocational education in the United States , which outlines growing demand and wage trends.
Can Plumbers Earn Six Figures?
Yes—absolutely. While the median plumber earns around $62K, top earners regularly surpass $100,000 annually. Here’s how:
- Overtime: Working 10–15 extra hours/week at time-and-a-half adds $15K–$25K/year.
- Specialization: Medical gas, green plumbing, or backflow prevention certification can boost rates by 15–30%.
- Business Ownership: A solo plumber charging $85/hour and working 30 billable hours/week nets ~$132,600 before expenses.
- Seasonal Demand: Winter (frozen pipes) and summer (AC drain lines, renovations) create peak earning windows.
🛠️ Real Example: Marcus T., a master plumber in Chicago, reported earning $118,000 in 2024—$65/hour base + $28K in emergency call premiums.
Step-by-Step: How to Maximize Your Plumbing Income
If you’re entering or advancing in the trade, follow these steps to increase your hourly earnings:
- Complete a Registered Apprenticeship (4–5 years) through a union or trade school.
- Get Licensed in Your State—requirements vary, but most require 2–4 years of experience + exam.
- Earn Specialized Certifications (e.g., EPA 608 for refrigerant handling, medical gas piping).
- Track Billable Hours Accurately—use apps like Jobber or ServiceTitan to avoid undercharging.
- Raise Rates Annually—increase by 3–5% to match inflation and skill growth.
- Consider Going Independent after 5+ years—owning your business unlocks the highest earning potential.
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Q: Do plumbers really make more than college graduates?
A: In many cases, yes. The median plumber ($62K) out-earns the average bachelor’s degree holder in fields like social work ($50K), early education ($44K), or graphic design ($58K)—and without student debt.
Q: How much do apprentice plumbers make per hour?
A: Typically $17–$22/hour, with raises every 6–12 months as skills improve. Many programs also include paid classroom instruction.
Q: Are plumbing wages expected to rise in the next 5 years?
A: Yes. The BLS projects 5% job growth (2024–2034), faster than average, due to aging infrastructure and new construction. Wage growth is expected to keep pace with inflation and demand.
Q: What’s the highest-paying plumbing job?
A: Industrial or offshore plumbers (e.g., oil rigs, power plants) can earn $60–$90/hour, but require advanced safety training and often involve travel or remote work.
Q: Do female plumbers earn the same as male plumbers?
A: In union and licensed settings, pay is typically equal by law. However, women represent only ~2% of the trade, so mentorship and networking (e.g., through organizations like Women in Trades) can help close opportunity gaps.
Q: How much do plumbers charge customers vs. what they earn?
A: A customer might pay $100–$150/hour, but the plumber (especially if employed) may only receive $30–$40 of that. The rest covers overhead, insurance, vehicle, and profit margin.
Conclusion
So, how much money does a plumber make an hour in 2025? While the national average sits near $30/hour, your actual earnings depend on skill, location, and ambition. With the right path—licensing, specialization, and smart business decisions—plumbing offers a rare blend of job security, flexibility, and six-figure potential without a college degree.
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