Ever wondered how much does a plumber makes to keep your pipes stay intact, drains unclogged and water flowing freely? According to a report, the global plumbing industry has generated over $4 trillion in revenue in 2021.
And The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the industry will grow by 2% until 2031, indicating healthy demand for plumbers. So whether you’re considering a career change, it is the right time to opt for it.
Let’s dive into the financial world of plumbers, exploring the factors influencing their salaries.
How Much Does a Plumber Make
On average, a plumber earns around $60,923 per year, which is $29.18 per hour in the United States. However, earnings can vary from state to state. In some states, they can earn around $108,268 yearly.
There are several other factors influencing the plumber’s salaries that we will talk about further in the article. So stay tuned with us!
Factors Influencing Plumbers’ Salaries
1. Location
One of the most significant factors influencing an average plumber’s salary is location. Plumbers working in urban areas with higher cost of living, tend to earn higher wages compared to those working in rural areas.
States like Alaska, Massachusetts, and Connecticut typically offer higher pay rates due to higher cost of living and the higher demand for plumbing contractor services. Below, we’ve gathered the list of a few states in the US with earnings of plumbers.
- California:- $61,044 per year
- Washington:- $71,191 per year
- Oregon:- $79,129 per year
- Massachusetts:- $79,383 per year
- Minnesota:- $73,061 per year
- Connecticut:- $79,131 per year
- Alaska:- $85,589 per year
- Utah:- $66,010 per year
- Florida:- $53,654 per year
- Arizona:- $58,714 per year
2. Experience Level
Experience plays a crucial role in determining a plumber’s salary. Beginner-level plumbers earn less compared to highly professional ones. Additionally, experience with a formal education or certification in the respective is the lethal combination.
Plumbers who have completed vocational training programs or obtained certification from a certified institution may earn higher.
- Beginner-Level:- $34,282 yearly
- Mid-Level:- $60,090 yearly
- Senior-Level:- $108,268 yearly
3. Market Demand
The overall demand for plumbing services and economic conditions can significantly impact salaries. In times of economic growth and a growing industrial construction project, the demand for skilled plumbers increases, leading to higher wages. Conversely, when the economy goes downward, the demand may decrease, potentially lowering salaries.
4. Industry Trends
Industry trends and technological advancements are other key factors influencing plumbers’ salaries. The adoption of new technologies, such as smart home systems and energy-efficient plumbing solutions, requires plumbers to update their skills and knowledge.
Therefore, those who are proficient in these areas often ask for higher pay.
5. Reputation
Reputation also plays a major role in affecting plumbers’ salaries. Plumbers employed by large construction companies or government agencies often receive higher pay compared to those working for small, independent plumbing businesses.
Average Annual Salaries of Plumbers in Various Cities in the UK, Canada, And Australia
| Country | City | Average Annual Salary | Currency |
| UK | London | £35,000 | GBP |
| Manchester | £30,000 | GBP | |
| Birmingham | £28,000 | GBP | |
| Glasgow | £29,000 | GBP | |
| Bristol | £32,000 | GBP | |
| Canada | Toronto | CAD $55,000 | CAD |
| Vancouver | CAD $60,000 | CAD | |
| Calgary | CAD $65,000 | CAD | |
| Montreal | CAD $50,000 | CAD | |
| Ottawa | CAD $58,000 | CAD | |
| Australia | Sydney | AUD $70,000 | AUD |
| Melbourne | AUD $65,000 | AUD | |
| Brisbane | AUD $60,000 | AUD | |
| Perth | AUD $62,000 | AUD | |
| Adelaide | AUD $58,000 | AUD |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do plumbers earn more with experience?
Yes, plumbers with more experience typically earn higher wages.
2. Are plumbers’ salaries higher in certain states?
Yes, states like California, New York, and Alaska often offer higher salaries for plumbers.
3. Do plumbers receive benefits in addition to their salary?
Many plumbers receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
4. Can plumbers increase their income through overtime?
Yes, plumbers often have opportunities to earn extra income through overtime and emergency call-outs.
5. Does a plumber’s salary vary based on specialization?
Yes, plumbers who specialize in areas like pipefitting or steamfitting can earn higher salaries than general plumbers.
Wrapping Up
An average plumber’s salary is $60,923 per year, varying widely based on factors like experience, location, market demand, and industry trends. Entry-level plumbers can expect to start with a modest salary that grows substantially with experience and skills. Overall, plumbing is a solid career choice with a promising financial stability and opportunities for growth.
