How Much Do Plumbers Make Per Year? 2026 Salary Guide
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $61,550 in 2024. But plumber earnings vary dramatically by location, experience level, specialization, and whether they're employed or self-employed. This guide breaks it all down.
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Key Takeaways
- BLS median annual wage for plumbers: $61,550 (2024 data)
- Top 10% of plumbers earn $100,000+ per year
- Master plumbers who own businesses can earn $150,000–$300,000+
- Illinois, New York, and Hawaii have the highest plumber wages
- Plumbing employment projected to grow 6% through 2032 (faster than average)
Bureau of Labor Statistics Plumber Salary Data (2024)
The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook provides the most authoritative salary data for plumbers:
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $37,140 | $17.86 |
| 25th percentile | $47,260 | $22.72 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $61,550 | $29.59 |
| 75th percentile | $80,690 | $38.79 |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $103,950+ | $49.98+ |
These figures represent employed plumbers. Self-employed master plumbers who own their own businesses typically earn significantly more — often $150,000–$300,000+ in high-demand markets.
Plumber Salaries by State (Top & Bottom)
| State | Avg Annual Wage | Avg Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $94,450 | $45.41 |
| New York | $88,290 | $42.45 |
| Hawaii | $86,710 | $41.69 |
| Alaska | $83,850 | $40.31 |
| Massachusetts | $82,480 | $39.65 |
| California | $79,570 | $38.25 |
| Texas | $58,930 | $28.33 |
| Florida | $55,240 | $26.56 |
| Mississippi | $49,310 | $23.71 |
| Arkansas | $48,580 | $23.36 |
Union states (Illinois, New York, Hawaii) consistently show the highest plumber wages due to collective bargaining agreements. See all state plumbing guides for local market details.
Plumber Pay by License Level & Experience
| Level | Experience | Avg Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | 0–4 years | $35,000–$50,000 |
| Journeyman | 4–7 years | $55,000–$80,000 |
| Master Plumber (employed) | 7+ years | $75,000–$110,000 |
| Plumbing Contractor (self-employed) | 10+ years | $100,000–$300,000+ |
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The BLS projects plumbing employment to grow 6% from 2022–2032, adding approximately 30,200 new jobs. This growth is driven by:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 480,600 plumbers employed in the United States with a median annual wage of $61,550. The U.S. EPA reports that household water leaks can waste nearly 10,000 gallons per year.
- Aging housing stock requiring pipe replacement and upgrades
- New construction activity in growing metro areas
- Retrofitting buildings for water efficiency
- Retirement of a large share of the current workforce (median age of plumbers is 42)
Plumbing is considered a recession-resistant trade — pipes break regardless of economic conditions. Learn how to become a plumber: How to Get a Plumber's License in Your State.
Plumber Salary vs Other Trades
| Trade | Median Annual Wage (BLS 2024) |
|---|---|
| Plumber / Pipefitter | $61,550 |
| Electrician | $61,590 |
| HVAC Technician | $57,300 |
| Carpenter | $54,540 |
| Construction laborer | $40,220 |
Plumbing and electrical work offer nearly identical median wages — both among the highest-paying skilled trades. Both fields have strong job security and significant earning potential for those who advance to master level or start their own business.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to BLS 2024 data, plumbers and electricians earn nearly identical median wages ($61,550 vs $61,590 respectively). Both trades offer strong earning potential, especially for self-employed contractors in high-demand markets.
Yes — approximately the top 10% of employed plumbers earn over $103,950 annually, according to BLS data. In high-cost states like Illinois, New York, and Hawaii, even journeyman plumbers can exceed $100,000 with overtime. Plumbing business owners in major metro areas commonly earn $150,000–$300,000+.
Becoming a licensed journeyman plumber typically takes 4–5 years: completing an apprenticeship program (usually through PHCC or UA union programs), accumulating the required on-the-job hours, and passing the licensing exam. Becoming a master plumber takes 7–10 years total.
Plumbing is an excellent career in 2026: strong job security, above-average wages, growing demand, and no risk of automation. The skilled trades have a significant talent shortage — plumbing schools report demand far exceeds the number of new entrants. Starting pay for apprentices ($35,000–$50,000) rises quickly with experience and licensure.