You’ve probably heard the saying: “You can make more money as a plumber than as an engineer.” At first glance, it sounds like an exaggeration—but what if it’s true for many Americans today? With rising student debt, shifting job markets, and booming demand for skilled labor, this isn’t just a myth. In fact, you really can make more money as a plumber than as an engineer—depending on your location, experience, and career path. If you’re weighing career options or advising someone who is, this article breaks down the real numbers, opportunities, and long-term potential of both professions.
Why Are Plumbers Earning So Much Today?
The plumbing industry is undergoing a quiet revolution. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $60,090 in May 2023, with the top 10% earning over $103,000. But that’s just the national average.
In high-cost states like California, New York, or Alaska, experienced master plumbers often charge $100–$200 per hour—and many run their own businesses, multiplying their income through team scaling and emergency service premiums.
Compare that to entry-level engineers:
- Civil engineers: median $89,940
- Mechanical engineers: median $95,300
- Electrical engineers: median $102,330
Looks like engineers win, right? Not so fast.
Many engineers start with $50,000–$70,000 salaries and carry $30,000–$70,000 in student debt from 4-year degrees. Meanwhile, plumbers often enter the workforce by age 20 after a 4–5 year apprenticeship (paid while learning!) with little to no debt.
“I cleared six figures by 28—no college, no loans,” says Marcus T., a licensed master plumber in Austin, Texas. “My engineer friend is still paying off his degree at 32.”
How Does a Plumber Outearn an Engineer? Let’s Break It Down
1. Lower Entry Barriers, Faster ROI
- Plumber: Apprenticeship (4–5 years) = earn while you learn. Total cost: often under $5,000.
- Engineer: 4-year degree + possible graduate school = $50,000–$150,000+ in tuition.
Result? A plumber may be debt-free and earning $50K+ by age 22. An engineer might start at $65K—but after loan payments, disposable income can be lower.
2. Entrepreneurial Freedom
Most top-earning plumbers own their businesses. Once licensed, they can:
- Hire junior plumbers
- Offer 24/7 emergency services (2–3x normal rates)
- Expand into HVAC, drain cleaning, or water treatment
An engineer can start a firm too—but it typically requires certifications, liability insurance, and niche expertise. Plumbers scale faster with less overhead.
3. Recession Resistance
People always need working toilets, hot water, and leak repairs—even in economic downturns. Plumbing is essential infrastructure, not discretionary spending.
Engineering roles, especially in construction or tech, can face layoffs during recessions. According to Wikipedia, plumbing dates back to ancient civilizations—proving its timeless necessity.
Real Data: Plumber vs. Engineer Income Over Time
| Career Stage | Plumber (Self-Employed) | Engineer (Corporate) |
|---|---|---|
| Age 22 | $45,000 (apprentice) | $62,000 (entry-level) |
| Age 26 | $75,000 (journeyman) | $78,000 |
| Age 30 | $110,000 (business owner) | $92,000 |
| Age 35 | $140,000+ (scaled biz) | $105,000 |
| Student Debt | $0–$5,000 | $30,000–$80,000 |
Note: Assumes plumber starts business at 28; engineer stays in salaried role.
As you can see, by mid-30s, the plumber’s net income often surpasses the engineer’s—especially after accounting for debt repayment and taxes.
What About Job Satisfaction and Lifestyle?
Money isn’t everything. Let’s compare quality-of-life factors:
✅ Plumber Pros
- Hands-on, tangible results
- Flexible schedule (especially self-employed)
- High demand nationwide (shortage of 100,000+ plumbers expected by 2030)
- No cubicle life
❌ Plumber Cons
- Physically demanding
- Exposure to dirty/wet environments
- On-call emergencies
✅ Engineer Pros
- Intellectual challenges
- Office comfort
- Global career mobility
❌ Engineer Cons
- Long hours on screens
- Corporate bureaucracy
- Slower promotion cycles
“I love solving puzzles, but I hated sitting all day,” says Priya R., who left mechanical engineering to become a plumbing contractor. “Now I’m outside, fixing real problems—and making 30% more.”
How to Maximize Earnings as a Plumber (Step-by-Step)
Want to join the six-figure plumber club? Follow this roadmap:
- Get Your High School Diploma or GED
→ Required for most apprenticeships. - Enroll in a Paid Apprenticeship
→ Find one via UA.org or local unions. You’ll earn ~$20/hr while training. - Complete 4–5 Years of On-the-Job Training
→ Includes classroom instruction (safety, codes, blueprint reading). - Pass Journeyman License Exam
→ Varies by state; typically covers local plumbing codes. - Work 2–4 Years as a Journeyman
→ Save money, build reputation, learn business basics. - Obtain Master Plumber License
→ Required to pull permits and run a business in most states. - Launch Your Own Business
→ Start solo, then hire help. Focus on niches: tankless water heaters, sewer camera inspections, or commercial plumbing. - Add Revenue Streams
→ Sell maintenance contracts ($500/year per client), offer drain cleaning, or partner with real estate inspectors.
With this path, $100K–$150K/year is achievable within 10 years—often faster in urban markets.
FAQ Section
Q1: Do plumbers really make more than engineers?
A: Not universally—but many do, especially self-employed master plumbers in high-demand areas. Engineers with advanced degrees or in specialized fields (e.g., petroleum) may earn more, but plumbers often achieve higher net income due to lower debt and business ownership.
Q2: How long does it take to become a high-earning plumber?
A: About 6–8 years: 4–5 years as an apprentice/journeyman, plus 2–3 years building a client base after licensure. Some reach $80K+ within 5 years in busy markets.
Q3: Is plumbing a stable career long-term?
A: Extremely stable. The BLS projects 5% job growth (2022–2032), faster than average. Aging infrastructure and housing shortages ensure ongoing demand.
Q4: Can engineers switch to plumbing?
A: Yes! Many do. Your problem-solving skills transfer well. You’d still need to complete an apprenticeship, but your discipline and technical aptitude give you an edge.
Q5: What’s the highest-paying plumbing specialty?
A: Commercial plumbing, medical gas installation, and industrial pipefitting often pay the most—sometimes $120K+ for union workers on large projects.
Q6: Are there downsides to choosing plumbing over engineering?
A: Yes—physical strain, irregular hours, and social stigma (“blue-collar” bias). But financial freedom, autonomy, and job security offset these for many.
Conclusion
So—can you make more money as a plumber than as an engineer? For thousands of Americans, the answer is a resounding yes. While engineering offers prestige and intellectual rewards, plumbing delivers faster financial independence, lower risk, and entrepreneurial opportunity.
If you value hands-on work, hate student debt, and want control over your time and income, the skilled trades deserve serious consideration. And with a national shortage of qualified plumbers, now is an ideal time to start.
👉 Found this eye-opening? Share it with a student, parent, or career counselor on Facebook, LinkedIn, or X! Let’s challenge outdated assumptions about “good careers”—because real success is measured in freedom, not just diplomas.
Leave a Reply