Thinking about a career in plumbing—or just curious how much plumbers really earn? You’re not alone. Many Americans are exploring skilled trades as stable, well-paying alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. If you’ve ever wondered, “How much money does a plumber make per year?”—you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down real salary data, factors that affect earnings, and how you can maximize your income in this in-demand profession.
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. This means half of all plumbers earned more than this amount, and half earned less.
But that’s just the starting point. Earnings can vary significantly based on experience, location, specialization, and employment type (self-employed vs. working for a company).
Entry-Level (0–2 years)
$38,000 – $48,000
Mid-Career (3–7 years)
$48,000 – $65,000
Experienced (8+ years)
$65,000 – $90,000+
Master Plumber / Business Owner
$80,000 – $150,000+
💡 Pro Tip: Becoming a master plumber—which typically requires 2–5 years of experience after your journeyman license—can dramatically boost your earning potential.
Which States Pay Plumbers the Most?
Location plays a huge role in plumbing income. High-cost-of-living states often offer higher wages to compensate, but demand and union presence also influence pay.
Top 5 Highest-Paying States for Plumbers (2023 BLS Data):
Illinois: $92,610
Alaska: $89,320
Massachusetts: $87,420
New Jersey: $85,330
Hawaii: $84,290
In contrast, states like Mississippi and Arkansas report average plumber salaries below $45,000 annually.
🌎 Note: Urban areas like Chicago, Boston, and Newark consistently offer higher wages due to greater demand and complex infrastructure needs.
If you’re already in the trade or planning to enter it, here’s how to increase your income:
1. Get Licensed and Certified
Most states require a plumbing license to work legally. Advancing from apprentice → journeyman → master plumber opens doors to higher-paying jobs and supervisory roles. Certifications in green plumbing, medical gas installation, or backflow prevention can also command premium rates.
Water treatment systems …often pay 20–40% more per hour.
3. Start Your Own Business
Self-employed plumbers keep 100% of their profits (minus expenses). While it requires upfront investment and business savvy, many solo plumbers earn $100,000+ annually within 3–5 years. According to Wikipedia’s overview of skilled trades , entrepreneurship is a key path to wealth in vocational fields.
4. Work Overtime or On-Call Shifts
Emergency plumbing calls (burst pipes, sewer backups) often pay time-and-a-half or double-time rates, especially during nights, weekends, or holidays. Many plumbers add $10,000–$20,000 annually through on-call work.
5. Upskill with Technology
Modern plumbers use video pipe inspection cameras, hydro-jetting machines, and smart leak detectors. Learning these tools makes you more efficient—and billable—at $100–$150/hour in some markets.
Apprentice vs. Journeyman vs. Master Plumber: Salary Comparison
Understanding the career ladder is key to maximizing income:
Work independently, handle most residential/commercial jobs
Master Plumber
2+ years post-journeyman + exam
$75,000 – $120,000+
Design systems, pull permits, supervise teams, own businesses
✅ Bonus Insight: Union plumbers (e.g., through UA – United Association) often earn 15–25% more than non-union peers, plus better benefits.
Pros and Cons of a Plumbing Career
Before jumping in, weigh the realities:
✅ Pros:
High job security (plumbing is recession-resistant)
No student debt (most training is paid apprenticeships)
Strong demand: BLS projects 2% job growth through 2032, with ~48,000 openings yearly
Flexible career paths (employee, contractor, inspector, instructor)
❌ Cons:
Physically demanding (kneeling, lifting, working in tight spaces)
Exposure to hazardous materials or unsanitary conditions
Irregular hours (emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule)
Startup costs if going solo (truck, tools, insurance)
FAQ: Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Q1: Do plumbers really make six figures?
Yes—especially master plumbers, business owners, or those in high-demand urban markets. Top earners in states like Illinois or California regularly clear $100,000–$150,000/year.
Q2: How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
Typically 4–5 years: 1 year of classroom training + 4 years as a paid apprentice, followed by a state licensing exam.
Q3: Is plumbing a good career for beginners with no experience?
Absolutely. Most apprentices start with no prior experience. Trade schools and union programs provide hands-on training while you earn.
Q4: Can women succeed as plumbers?
Yes! While historically male-dominated, the industry is becoming more inclusive. Organizations like Women in Trades support female professionals, and many report high job satisfaction and equal pay.
Q5: How does plumbing compare to electrician or HVAC salaries?
Very similar. Electricians average $60,240/year, HVAC techs $51,390 (BLS 2023). Plumbing often edges out due to emergency service premiums.
Q6: Are plumbing jobs at risk from automation?
Unlikely. Plumbing requires complex problem-solving, physical dexterity, and on-site judgment—tasks AI and robots can’t easily replicate.
Conclusion: A Lucrative, Future-Proof Career
So, how much money does a plumber make per year? The answer ranges from $40,000 for beginners to over $150,000 for seasoned entrepreneurs—with strong growth potential, job stability, and minimal educational debt.
Whether you’re seeking a reliable trade career or looking to pivot from a desk job, plumbing offers real earning power without a college degree. With the U.S. facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, now is an excellent time to get trained, licensed, and started.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with someone considering a trade career! 💧🔧 👉 Tag a friend on Facebook, tweet it, or send it to a high school counselor.
Your next career move could be just one pipe away.
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