On Average, How Much Does a Plumber Make? (2025 Salary Breakdown)

On Average, How Much Does A Plumber Make? Let’s Break It Down Realistically

If you’ve ever called a plumber at 10 p.m. because your kitchen sink decided to flood — and then stared at the bill wondering, “Do they really make that much?” — you’re not alone.

Many people assume plumbing is just a “handyman job,” but it’s actually a highly skilled trade that demands years of training, physical stamina, and problem-solving under pressure. So, on average, how much does a plumber make? And is it worth the path to get there?

The short answer: Yes — plumbing is one of the most stable, well-paying skilled trades in the U.S. But the real numbers? They vary a lot. Let’s dive into the data, the trends, and what actually ends up in a plumber’s paycheck.

What’s the National Average Salary for Plumbers in 2025?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $62,160 in May 2023 — and with inflation, union contracts, and rising demand, 2025 projections estimate that number at $65,000–$68,000.

That’s $31–$33 per hour on average — but here’s the catch: this is the median. Half of plumbers earn more. Half earn less.

Let’s look at the full range:

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023 data + 2025 industry projections

So if you’re just starting out, don’t be discouraged. Many plumbers double their earnings within 5 years — especially if they work overtime, take emergency calls, or move into management.

Which States Pay Plumbers the Most? (Top 5 in 2025)

Location matters a lot. A plumber in Alaska doesn’t make the same as one in Mississippi — even with the same experience.

Here are the top 5 highest-paying states for plumbers in 2025, based on BLS data and regional cost-of-living adjustments:

Fun fact: Plumbers in rural areas often earn less hourly — but they may have lower living costs and fewer expenses, making their take-home pay surprisingly competitive.

How Do Plumbers Earn More Than Just Hourly Wages?

Plumbing isn’t just a 9-to-5 job. The best plumbers know how to multiply their income. Here’s how:

✅ Overtime & Emergency Calls
Most plumbers charge 1.5x–2x their normal rate for nights, weekends, or holidays. A $35/hour plumber can easily make $70/hour on a 2 a.m. emergency call.

✅ Service Calls + Markup on Parts
You’re not just paying for labor. You’re paying for the parts too. A plumber might charge $150 to fix a leaky faucet — $80 for labor, $70 for the valve, sealant, and tools. That markup is standard and fair.

✅ Becoming a Master Plumber
After 4–5 years as a licensed journeyman, you can take the Master Plumber exam. This unlocks:

• Higher-paying jobs
• Ability to pull permits
• Legal authority to run your own business

✅ Starting Your Own Company
The most successful plumbers don’t work for others — they are the boss. A small plumbing business in a mid-sized city can gross $200,000–$500,000/year. After expenses, net profit? $80,000–$180,000.

“I started as a helper making $15/hour. Five years later, I own a 3-person crew. Last year, I took home $142,000. It’s not glamorous — but it’s real money.”
— Marcus T., Master Plumber, Columbus, OH (interview, 2024)

Plumbing vs. Other Skilled Trades: A Quick Comparison

Wondering how plumbing stacks up against electricians, HVAC techs, or carpenters? Here’s how they compare in 2025:

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook

Bottom line: Plumbing pays on par with other top trades — and has stronger job growth. Plus, you can’t automate a clogged sewer line. Humans are still essential.

How to Become a Plumber: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re thinking about entering the field, here’s how it actually works:

1. Get a High School Diploma or GED
   Focus on math, science, and shop classes. Basic algebra and reading blueprints are critical.
2. Enroll in a Trade School or Community College Program (Optional but recommended)
   Programs last 6 months to 2 years. Costs: $5,000–$15,000. Many offer apprenticeship placement.
3. Apply for an Apprenticeship (The Real Path)
   • Lasts 4–5 years
   • You earn while you learn: Starts at 40–50% of journeymen wages
   • Combine 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training with 144+ hours of classroom instruction
   • Sponsored by unions (e.g., United Association) or private contractors
4. Pass Your Journeyman License Exam
   Every state has different rules. Most require 2–5 years of experience + a written/practical test.
5. Get Your Master Plumber License (Optional, but lucrative)
   Requires 2–5 more years of experience + a tougher exam. Lets you supervise, pull permits, and start your own business.

💡 Pro Tip: The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship.gov portal lists hundreds of approved plumbing apprenticeships nationwide. No tuition. Paid training. Guaranteed job.
Learn more at Apprenticeship.gov

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Plumber Salaries, Answered

Q1: Do plumbers make good money compared to college grads?

Absolutely. The average college grad starts at $55,000–$60,000 — but they carry $30,000–$50,000 in student debt. A plumber starts at $40,000–$50,000… with no debt. By age 30, many plumbers earn more than their college-educated peers — and they’re already financially free of loans.

Q2: Is plumbing a stressful job?

Yes — but in a good way. Stress comes from emergencies: flooded basements, no heat in winter, or angry homeowners. But plumbers love the problem-solving. Each job is a puzzle. And you get paid well to fix it. Many say the stress is rewarding, not draining.

Q3: Can women become plumbers?

Definitely. While only about 5% of plumbers are women today, that number is growing fast. Organizations like Women in Plumbing and NAWIC offer mentorship, tools, and community. Pay is the same — no gender pay gap in this trade.

Q4: Do plumbers retire early?

Many do — if they plan ahead. A plumber who’s been working 10+ years can often retire by 55–60 by:

• Saving 15–20% of income
• Owning their business
• Investing in rental properties (many plumbers buy homes to rent out)

Q5: Is there a shortage of plumbers?

Yes — and it’s getting worse. The BLS reports that over 50,000 new plumbers will be needed by 2033. Why? Baby boomers are retiring, and fewer young people are choosing trades. That means more jobs, higher pay, and better benefits for new entrants.

Q6: Can I make six figures as a plumber?

Yes — easily. A master plumber working 50+ hours/week, doing emergency calls, and running a small business can hit $100,000–$150,000 annually. Some in high-demand areas (like California or New York) even clear $200,000+.

Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing Worth It?

So — on average, how much does a plumber make?
$65,000–$68,000 is the national median.
But the real earning potential? It’s sky-high.

Plumbing offers:

• Financial stability without college debt
• Job security (you’ll always need someone to fix pipes)
• Flexibility (work for a company or run your own business)
• Respect (people genuinely appreciate you when your sink stops flooding)

It’s not a job for everyone — it’s physically demanding, messy, and sometimes unpredictable. But if you like solving real-world problems with your hands, and you want to build wealth without a 4-year degree — plumbing might be the smartest career move you’ll ever make.

Found This Helpful? Share It!

If you or someone you know is considering a plumbing career — don’t keep this info to yourself.
👉 Share this article on Facebook, Pinterest, or LinkedIn to help others discover a high-paying, future-proof trade.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments below — we reply to every one.