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How Much Do Plumbers Make in 2025? (US & UK Salary Breakdown)


Curious about plumber salaries? Plumbing is a lucrative trade with strong earning potential. This guide explores U.S. and U.K. plumber wages, covering entry-level vs. experienced pay and regional variations. Learn how experience, location, and certifications impact income, plus insights on benefits and job outlook. Let's dive in!

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Plumber Salary in the United States

In the U.S., plumbers earn a healthy income that tends to be above the national average wage. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is about $61,550 as of May 2023 ( Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). This means half of plumbers earn more than that, and half earn less. For perspective, this median is higher than the median across all occupations nationally.


Entry-Level vs. Experienced Plumber Pay (US)

How does a plumber’s salary grow with experience? It can increase substantially as you move from an apprentice to a journeyman and finally to a master plumber. Here’s a breakdown:


  • Apprentice / Entry-Level Plumbers: As a beginner (often working under a licensed plumber), you might earn roughly $30,000 to $45,000 per year in many areas (Registered, licensed plumbers how much do you make yearly?). Apprentices typically earn a portion of a fully licensed plumber’s wage while they learn. For example, plumbers in the 10th–25th percentile earn about $37,000–$47,000 a year, which aligns with apprentice-level pay (Plumber Overview - Best Jobs - US News Money). Hourly pay for apprentices can start around $15-$20. Keep in mind this can vary by region and union contracts. On the plus side, apprentices often get raises as they gain skills, and they may receive overtime pay and benefits even while training.

  • Journeyman Plumbers (Mid-Level): After completing an apprenticeship and becoming a fully licensed journeyman plumber, incomes jump higher. The average salary for a journeyman in the U.S. is around the mid to high-$60,000s annually. Many journeymen make roughly $60k-$70k per year (about $30-$35 per hour) depending on the state and demand. It’s not unusual for a journeyman plumber with a few years’ experience to earn around $64–$68k per year, plus additional overtime or bonuses in busy markets.

  • Master Plumbers (Highly Experienced): Master plumbers – those who have the highest level of certification/licensing – tend to earn the top salaries. Master plumber incomes often exceed $80,000 per year, and in some cases can reach six figures. National data sources show a wide range for experienced plumbers, with the 75th percentile earnings around $80k annually (Plumber Overview - Best Jobs - US News Money). In high-paying areas or with many years of experience, a master plumber could make $90k or even over $100k in annual income, especially if they take on complex projects or supervisory roles. For instance, some reports show master plumbers earning between $63k and $98k+ per year (How Much Do Plumbers Make in 2024? - FieldEdge). Master plumbers who run their own business can potentially earn even more (their profit can be higher, though they also have business expenses to manage).

> Real-world example: A newly licensed plumber in a smaller city might start at around $45,000 a year, while an experienced master plumber in a big city (or working on specialized commercial jobs) could easily earn $85,000+ annually. Geography, union membership, and the type of projects (residential service vs. large construction) all make a difference.


Highest Paying States and Cities (US)

Location plays a big role in how much plumbers get paid in the U.S. Salaries can vary significantly from state to state (often reflecting the local cost of living and demand for skilled trades). According to BLS data, the top-paying states for plumbers offer average wages around $80k–$85k+ per year. Here are a few of the best-paying areas:


  • Illinois – Plumbers earn about $86,200 per year on average in Illinois (approx. $41.44 hourly), making it one of the highest-paying states. Chicago’s strong union presence and ongoing construction contribute to higher wages.

  • Alaska – Average about $85,300 per year (around $41.01/hr). Alaska’s remote locations and demand for skilled tradespeople drive up pay.

  • Massachusetts – Average roughly $84,090 per year ($40.43/hr). Plumbers in the Boston metro area, especially, see high wages due to a strong construction market and high cost of living.

  • New Jersey – Around $82,740 per year ($39.78/hr) on average. Proximity to New York City and lots of urban infrastructure work influence New Jersey’s plumber pay.

  • Oregon – Around $81,470 per year ($39.17/hr). Especially in cities like Portland, demand for plumbers keeps salaries robust.

It’s worth noting that some specific metropolitan areas outpace their state averages. For example, the San Jose-Santa Clara area in California boasts an average plumber salary of about $94,580 per year – considerably higher than many other places. Similarly, the Boston-Cambridge metro area (straddling Massachusetts/New Hampshire) sees mean salaries around $85,340 annually】. Large cities with booming construction or higher costs of living (like San Francisco, New York, or Chicago) generally pay plumbers more to attract and keep talent. On the flip side, states with lower living costs or demand (say, in parts of the South or Midwest) may offer lower averages – for instance, a state like Mississippi sees plumber averages around $50k per year, which is lower but comes with a lower cost of living in those areas.


Tip: No matter where you live, licensed plumbers are in demand. If you’re open to relocation, moving to a high-demand region or city can significantly boost your pay. Just remember to factor in cost of living; $80k in one city might not go as far as $60k in another where expenses are lower.


Beyond Base Pay – Overtime and Benefits (US)

Another aspect of “how much plumbers make” involves overtime and benefits. Many plumbers, especially those on call for emergencies or working union jobs, have opportunities to earn overtime pay. This can add a sizable chunk to annual earnings – some report several thousand dollars extra per year in overtime. Plumbers often work full-time and may put in evenings or weekends (sometimes with premium pay rates for those hours).


In terms of benefits, plumbers employed by companies typically receive health insurance, retirement plans (401k), paid vacation, and sometimes perks like a work van, tools, or a clothing allowance. Union-affiliated plumbing jobs often come with especially strong benefits packages (excellent healthcare and pension plans). These benefits add value beyond the paycheck – for example, having a company cover your work truck, gas, and tools, or provide a pension, effectively increases your total compensation.


Many experienced plumbers choose to become self-employed or start their own business. While self-employed plumbers don’t get employer benefits, they can set their own rates. Successful self-employed plumbers can earn more by keeping the profits from jobs (after expenses). However, they must also pay for their own insurance, benefits, and marketing. We’ll touch more on how being a business owner can affect earnings in the UK section (where day rates for self-employed plumbers can be quite high).


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Plumber Salary in the United Kingdom

Now let’s switch gears and talk about the UK plumber salaries, which are also quite rewarding. In the United Kingdom, plumbing is a well-paid trade relative to the national average income. As of 2025, the average annual salary for a plumber in the UK is about £33,000–£34,000. This is a bit higher than the overall UK average salary (around £31k). Like in the US, a plumber’s pay in Britain depends on experience, location, and job type.


  • Entry-Level Plumbers (UK): According to official sources, a newly qualified or beginner plumber might start with a salary around £24,000 per year (this can be a bit higher in areas with more demand). Some training programs or apprenticeships might start even lower (the National Careers Service notes around £15,000 as a starting point for a plumber in training, though many will earn more once fully qualified). In practice, many newly trained plumbers earn closer to £25k–£30k in their early years.

  • Experienced Plumbers (UK): With a few years of experience and additional qualifications, plumbers in the UK often earn between £30,000 and £40,000+ annually. The upper end (high £30ks) would be for plumbers with significant experience or those working in high-cost areas. For example, in London and the South East of England, experienced plumbers commonly earn about £35,000 to £41,000 per year, often with benefits like a company van, fuel card, pension, and paid holidays included. In other regions like the North West, an experienced plumber might see salaries in the low £30ks, reflecting slightly lower living costs and wages there. Senior or “master” plumbers (with many years in the trade and possibly specialized skills) can earn even more, sometimes over £40k.

  • Hourly Rates (UK): Looking at it hourly, the average pay for a plumber in the UK is around £20–£22 per hour. This can range from maybe ~£15/hr for a novice up to £30+ for highly experienced or emergency call-out work. Many plumbers also charge premium rates for urgent after-hours jobs.


One interesting aspect in the UK is the distinction between employed plumbers vs. self-employed plumbers. A plumber working for a company will have a set salary (as discussed above) and possibly bonuses or overtime. A self-employed plumber, on the other hand, sets their own prices (often charging customers per job or hour). While income can fluctuate, self-employed plumbers have potential to earn more if they build a good reputation and keep busy:


  • Self-employed plumbers often charge daily or hourly rates. It’s not uncommon for established self-employed plumbers in the UK to charge around £200-£300 per day for their labor. In areas like London, some can charge up to £300-£350 per day for complex or urgent jobs. If you do the math, working full-time at £300/day could gross about £75,000 per year (before expenses). Of course, they have to cover their own costs (tools, van, insurance, taxes), but it shows the strong earning potential. In fact, one report found that when you factor in the profits of running a plumbing business, a successful owner could take home around £65k+ annually on average – and potentially more if they expand their team or take on big contracts.


Overall, plumbers in the UK make a comfortable living, with incomes growing nicely from starter level to experienced. It’s a profession in which your earnings can climb as you gain skills or even branch out on your own.


> Real-world example (UK): A newly qualified plumber in Birmingham might earn about £26,000 a year working for a local firm. After a few years and some additional certifications (like gas safety), they could be making £35,000 a year. If that plumber decides to go self-employed and builds a client base, charging say £250 a day, and works a solid 240 days in the year, they could potentially see revenue of £60,000 (minus expenses) – illustrating why many experienced plumbers consider running their own business.


What Factors Influence a Plumber’s Salary?

Why do some plumbers make more than others? Several key factors influence how much a plumber can earn in both the US and UK:


  • Experience Level & Training: This is the big one. As we’ve seen, apprentices or trainees earn the least while journeymen and master plumbers earn the most. The more years you work and the higher your licensing level, the more you can charge for your skills. Experienced plumbers can handle complex jobs efficiently, which justifies higher pay (How Much Do Plumbers Make in 2024? - FieldEdge).

  • Certifications & Specializations: Additional certifications (beyond basic licensing) can bump up pay. In the U.S., a plumber who is certified in specialized areas like medical gas piping, backflow prevention, or who is also a licensed HVAC technician might command higher wages. In the UK, having Gas Safe registration (to work on gas appliances) or certifications in green energy systems (heat pumps, solar hot water) can lead to higher-paying jobs. Becoming a Master Plumber or equivalent is often key to unlocking top earnings.

  • Location / Region: Geography matters. High-cost-of-living cities or regions with lots of construction will pay plumbers more (as discussed in the regional sections). Compare a plumber’s salary in San Francisco vs. a rural town – the former could be almost double the latter, but expenses differ. In the UK, London and South East rates outpace other regions. Plumbers may consider moving to where the work is – places with hot construction markets or where skilled trades are in short supply often offer higher wages.

  • Type of Employer: Who you work for affects your pay and benefits. Working for a large contractor or a government entity can often provide a higher base salary plus benefits. Unionized employers typically pay standardized higher wages. Meanwhile, small family-run plumbing businesses might pay a bit less (though sometimes offer overtime). If you’re self-employed, you have the potential to set higher rates, but you also carry business costs (and there may be lean times). Some plumbers eventually become contractors/business owners and hire a team – their personal earnings then come from business profits, which can be substantial if the business grows.

  • Industry or Niche: The field you work in can influence earnings. A plumber focused on new construction might have steadier work from builders, sometimes at union rates. Those who do emergency plumbing (like 24/7 services) might charge premium rates for late-night calls. Plumbers skilled in specialty systems (like industrial piping, sprinkler systems, or high-end bathroom installations) can earn more due to the specialized knowledge. In recent years, niches like eco-friendly plumbing (rainwater recycling, greywater systems) or smart home plumbing tech can set you apart for higher-paying jobs.

  • Demand and Economic Conditions: The overall demand for plumbers in your area will affect pay. If there’s a shortage of plumbers, wages go up as companies compete for talent. Currently, many regions face a shortage of young tradespeople entering the field, which is driving up wages and opportunities for new plumbers. Conversely, during a slow economy or construction downturn, non-essential plumbing work might dip (but the silver lining is that maintenance and repairs are often needed no matter what – hence plumbing is often called “recession-proof”).

In summary, the best-paid plumbers tend to be those with ample experience, specialized skills, in high-demand areas, working for employers (or themselves) that pay top dollar. The good news is these are factors you can often influence over the course of your career.

Job Outlook for Plumbers

You might also be curious: Is plumbing a good career for the future? From an earnings perspective and job security standpoint, plumbing has a positive outlook. In the U.S., the BLS projects about 4%–6% job growth for plumbers over the next decade, which is on par with or slightly faster than average. That translates to tens of thousands of job openings each year due to growth and replacing retiring plumbers. A key point is that many veteran plumbers are aging out of the workforce, and fewer young people have been entering trades, so opportunities for new plumbers are plentiful. This supply gap can mean higher wages as businesses try to attract talent.


Plumbing is often considered a stable, “essential” trade – people and businesses always need running water, functioning bathrooms, and heat. This baseline demand means plumbers often have steadier employment even when other industries struggle. In fact, plumbing is sometimes touted as recession-resistant, because even in tough times, leaks must be fixed and pipes replaced.


For the UK, a similar outlook holds: construction and maintenance needs keep demand for qualified plumbers fairly high. There’s ongoing need for plumbing work in new housing developments, commercial buildings, and infrastructure maintenance. Government initiatives (like encouraging greener heating systems or upgrading old piping) also create work for plumbers. So, if you’re considering this field, know that job prospects are generally solid, and a skilled plumber should be able to find work and command a good wage for the foreseeable future.


Tips to Maximize Your Earning Potential as a Plumber

Whether you’re just starting or already in the trade, here are a few tips to potentially boost your income as a plumber:

  • Complete Your Certifications/Licenses: Climb the ladder from apprentice to journeyman to master. Each step up usually comes with a pay raise. Don’t skip on getting that master plumber license if it’s available – it can open doors to supervisory roles or higher-paying projects. Also, consider certifications for specialties (like backflow prevention, medical gas installer, or Gas Safe registration in the UK) to qualify for more jobs.

  • Gain Diverse Experience: Work on different types of projects. If you only do residential service calls, you might hit an income ceiling. By gaining experience in commercial plumbing, new construction, or industrial systems, you make yourself more marketable. A broad skill set can help you command a higher wage.

  • Consider Overtime and Side Gigs: Many plumbers fatten their paycheck by taking on overtime or side jobs. If you’re willing, let your employer know you’re available for emergency after-hour jobs – those often pay extra. Or do small side projects for your own clients on weekends (just be mindful of any non-compete rules with your job).

  • Relocate or Travel: As noted, location matters. If you’re in an area where plumber pay is lower, you might consider relocating to a city or state (or region of the UK) that pays more. Even temporary travel to areas with construction booms (some plumbers travel to big project sites) can yield higher wages.

  • Build a Good Reputation: This is crucial, especially for independent plumbers. Word-of-mouth and good online reviews can let you charge premium rates. People will pay more for a plumber they trust will do excellent work reliably.

  • Start Your Own Business: If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, this can be a game-changer. Running a plumbing business means you set the rates and if you grow a customer base, you can hire others – transitioning yourself into more of a managerial role. This comes with risk and responsibility, but the income potential is high (some owner-plumbers earn well into six figures by managing a crew of plumbers). Plus, as a business owner, you can leverage tools to streamline your operations (from scheduling to invoicing) which can help you take on more jobs and increase profits.

Finally, always stay updated on industry trends. Plumbing techniques and building codes evolve; for instance, new eco-friendly technologies (like tankless water heaters or water recycling systems) are emerging. Plumbers who train in the latest tech or methods can market themselves as experts in those areas and often charge a premium.


Conclusion: Plumbers Earn What They’re Worth

So, how much do plumbers make? In 2025, a plumber in the U.S. earns around $60k+ a year on average, with newbies typically making a bit less and seasoned pros often making significantly more (especially with overtime or in high-demand locales). In the UK, plumbers average about £30k–£35k, with plenty of upside as you gain experience or go self-employed. These salaries reflect the fact that plumbing is a vital, skilled trade – one that offers job security and a chance to grow a lucrative career over time.


If you’re a homeowner or business wondering if plumbers “make good money,” the answer is yes, and it’s money well-earned: plumbers undergo years of training and tackle challenging work to keep our water and heating systems running. If you’re considering becoming a plumber, you can take confidence in the strong earning potential and the steady demand for this work. And if you’re already a plumber, remember there are many paths to increase your income as your skills grow.


Bottom line: Plumbing can be a rewarding career both personally and financially. The figures show that with dedication and experience, you can make a comfortable living (and then some) as a plumber in the U.S. or the UK.
P.S. Are you a plumber looking to strike out on your own or already running a one-person plumbing business? One thing you’ll need (aside from your tools) is a professional website to attract customers. The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune or have any coding skills. Pineapple Builder is an AI-powered website builder that’s perfect for solo plumbers and tradespeople on a budget. It can whip up a clean, modern website for your plumbing services in just minutes – just by you describing your business. It’s fast, low-cost, and you can have features like online booking or a contact form ready to go without any hassle. In today’s digital age, a great website is like your online business card and storefront combined. With Pineapple Builder, you’ll get a site that lets you showcase your work, list your services and prices, and start capturing new clients – all while you focus on doing what you do best: plumbing. Check it out and see how it can help grow your plumbing business! 🚀🔧


FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is the average salary of a plumber in the U.S.?
A: The average plumber in the United States makes around $60,000 to $65,000 per year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers is about $61,550 as of 2023 ( Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)4】. This means half earn less than that, and half earn more. Many experienced plumbers earn more – the top 25% of plumbers make about $80,000 or higher annually (Plumber Overview - Best Jobs - US News Money)7】, especially in high-paying states or with lots of overtime, while entry-level plumbers might start in the $40k range.


Q: How much do plumbers make per hour?
A: Plumbers in the U.S. make roughly $28 to $30 per hour on average2】. Entry-level plumbers (apprentices) might make closer to $15–$20 per hour starting out, depending on the region. As their skills and certifications increase, plumbers can see their hourly rates rise. Many experienced journeyman plumbers earn $30+ per hour, and master plumbers or those on specialized jobs can earn $40–$50+ per hour (the high end of the scale, for example, is around $48/hour for the top 10% of earner2】. In the UK, plumbers charge about £20–£30 per hour typically, with variation by region and job complexi3】.


Q: Do plumbers earn good money compared to other trades?
A: Yes – plumbing is generally one of the better-paid construction trades. For instance, plumbers in the U.S. have an average salary in the low-to-mid $60k’s, which is comparable to or a bit higher than electricians (around $61k) and higher than carpenters (around $567】. Plumbers also often have opportunities for overtime pay, which can boost their earnings above similar trades. In the UK, plumber pay is on par with or above many other trades as well – for example, electricians and plumbers often have similar salary ranges in the £30k’s, and both tend to outearn roles like painters or general construction laborers. So, plumbing is considered a financially rewarding trade, especially at the experienced level.

Q: Which states pay plumbers the most?
A: States like Illinois, Alaska, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Oregon top the list for plumber pay in the U.8】. In these states, plumbers earn in the range of $80k–$86k per year on average, well above the national average. For example, Illinois plumbers average about $86,08】. Additionally, certain cities such as San Francisco, San Jose, Boston, and New York have very high pay for plumbers (often $85k-$95k+ averages) due to high demand and cost of livi9】. It’s worth noting that high salaries in those areas correspond with higher living costs. On the other hand, states with lower costs of living (and sometimes lower demand) like Mississippi or Alabama tend to have lower average plumber salaries (often in the $45k–$55k range). Regardless of the state, licensed plumbers are fairly well-compensated given the essential nature of their work.

Q: How much do plumbers make in the UK?
A: In the United Kingdom, the average plumber’s salary is around £30,000–£34,000 per year1】. New plumbers just starting out might make about £20k–£25k, while those with a few years of experience typically earn in the £30k’s. In London and surrounding areas, salaries are higher – experienced plumbers there often make £35k–£40k+ annually1】. Plumbers working for companies usually also get benefits like a pension, holidays, and possibly a van. On an hourly basis, UK plumbers have an average rate of roughly £21 per hour3】. It’s also common in the UK for self-employed plumbers to charge daily rates; a busy self-employed plumber can earn the equivalent of £50k–£70k per year (before expenses) if working full-time and charging competitive rat9】.


Q: Can plumbers make six-figure incomes?
A:Yes, it’s possible, especially for highly experienced plumbers or business owners. In the U.S., plumbers in the top 10% earn over $100,000 a year ( Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)4】. These are often master plumbers who take on large commercial projects, have many years of experience, or perhaps run plumbing businesses that allow them to profit from multiple crews. Even as an individual, a plumber who specializes (for example, in consulting, contracting, or high-end projects) can reach six figures with enough demand and overtime. In the UK, a six-figure salary in pounds is less common for an individual plumber, but some plumbing business owners or contractors who expand their operations can achieve £100k+ incomes by scaling up their services. Generally, a solo self-employed plumber in the UK could make on the order of £60k–£80k if extremely successful and in demand, but breaking £100k would likely require having a team or a highly lucrative niche.


Q: Is plumbing a good career choice in 2025?
A:Absolutely. Plumbing offers a combination of good pay, steady demand, and upward mobility. As of 2025, both the U.S. and UK are experiencing strong need for skilled plumbers, in part due to aging infrastructure and not enough new tradespeople to replace retiring ones. The job outlook is positive – the U.S. expects a growth of a few percent in plumber jobs over the decade (with tens of thousands of job openings each yea7】. Plumbers also enjoy the fact that their work is essential; it’s less susceptible to automation and provides a useful service that people are willing to pay for, even during economic downturns. Many consider it a **recession-resistant career9】. If you like working with your hands, solving problems, and don’t mind the physical aspect of the job, plumbing can be both personally satisfying and financially secure. Plus, there are various paths your career can take (contractor, business owner, inspector, etc.), making it a flexible trade in the long run.

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