How much does a plumber make yearly? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers was $61,550 in May 2023, with the top 10% earning over $100,000. But your actual income depends on experience, location, specialization, and whether you work for a company or run your own business. In this guide, we’ll break down the numbers, show you what affects pay, and give you tips to increase your earnings as a plumber in the United States.
Plumber Salary Overview for 2026
Plumbers are essential to modern life, and their pay reflects that. The BLS projects a 6% job growth for plumbers from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Here’s a snapshot of annual earnings based on the latest BLS data (2023):
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-2 years) | $16 - $22 | $33,000 - $46,000 |
| Journeyman (3-5 years) | $22 - $30 | $46,000 - $62,000 |
| Master plumber (5+ years) | $30 - $45 | $62,000 - $94,000 |
| Top 10% (experienced, specialized) | $48+ | $100,000+ |
These are typical ranges for the U.S. and vary by region, cost of living, and union membership. For example, plumbers in high-cost states like California and New York often earn 20-30% more than the national average.
Factors That Affect a Plumber's Yearly Income
Experience and Licensing
As with most trades, experience directly correlates with earnings. Apprentices start at a lower hourly rate, but after completing a 4-5 year apprenticeship and passing the journeyman exam, wages jump significantly. Master plumbers, who can pull permits and run their own business, earn the highest salaries.
Geographic Location
Where you live matters. According to the BLS, the highest-paying states for plumbers are Alaska, Illinois, and New Jersey, with mean annual wages above $75,000. Rural areas typically pay less, but the cost of living is lower. Always compare salary to local housing costs.
Union vs. Non-Union
Union plumbers often earn higher wages and better benefits. For example, members of the United Association (UA) have negotiated pay scales that are publicly available. Non-union plumbers may have more flexibility but less job security.
Specialization
Plumbers who specialize in high-demand areas like leak detection, sewer line repair, or commercial HVAC can command premium rates. For instance, a plumber who installs tankless water heaters might charge more than a general plumber.
How to Increase Your Plumber Salary
- Get licensed: A journeyman or master license can boost your hourly rate by 30-50%.
- Specialize: Focus on high-profit services like water heater repair or sump pump installation.
- Work overtime: Many plumbers earn time-and-a-half for emergency calls, especially during winter.
- Start your own business: Independent plumbers can set their own rates, but must cover overhead.
- Continue education: Take courses in green plumbing, which is growing due to EPA WaterSense initiatives.
Plumber Salary by State (2026 Projections)
While we can’t predict exact 2026 numbers, we can use BLS data to estimate. Here are typical annual salaries for plumbers in a few key states (based on 2023 data, adjusted for inflation):
| State | Median Annual Wage | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| California | $75,000 | 140 |
| Texas | $55,000 | 90 |
| New York | $70,000 | 130 |
| Florida | $50,000 | 100 |
| Illinois | $72,000 | 95 |
Note: Cost of living index (U.S. average = 100) means California is 40% more expensive than average, so a $75,000 salary there may feel like $53,000 in Texas.
Plumber Salary vs. Other Trades
Plumbers earn more than some trades but less than others. Here’s a quick comparison (BLS 2023 medians):
- Electricians: $61,590
- HVAC technicians: $57,300
- Carpenters: $56,350
- Welders: $48,940
Plumbers are near the top, especially when you factor in overtime and specialized skills.
Benefits and Perks Beyond Salary
Annual salary is just one part of the compensation package. Many plumbers receive health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation, and training allowances. Union plumbers often have strong benefit packages. Additionally, plumbers are in high demand due to aging infrastructure and the need for energy-efficient water heating systems, which the U.S. Department of Energy encourages.
How to Get Started as a Plumber
If you’re considering this career, here’s the typical path:
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for an apprenticeship (union or non-union).
- Complete 4-5 years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
- Pass the journeyman licensing exam.
- Gain experience and consider a master plumber license.
Apprentices earn while they learn, so you won’t be without income. Many apprentices start at $15-$18 per hour, with raises every 6 months.
Common Questions About Plumber Salaries
Do plumbers make good money?
Yes, the median salary is above the national average for all occupations. With experience and specialization, many plumbers earn six figures.
How much do plumbers make per hour?
The average hourly wage is around $29.60, but it ranges from $16 for apprentices to $48+ for top earners.
Can a plumber make $100,000 a year?
Yes, but it requires experience, a master license, or owning a business. Plumbers in high-demand areas or with specialized skills can exceed $100,000.
Final Thoughts: Your Plumbing Career and Income
Understanding how much a plumber makes yearly helps you negotiate your salary or decide if this career is right for you. The plumbing industry offers stability, growth, and good pay. If you’re a homeowner, knowing these figures also helps you appreciate the value of professional plumbing services. For reliable plumbing work in your area, trust the experts at MyTownPlumber. We handle everything from drain cleaning to toilet repair with fair, upfront pricing.
Ready to Earn More as a Plumber?
If you’re already a plumber looking to increase your income, consider adding services like water softener installation or pipe repair to your offerings. Homeowners are willing to pay for convenience and expertise. And if you need a plumber, don’t hesitate to contact MyTownPlumber for a special offer on your next service.
About the Author: MyTownPlumber Editorial Team