Plumber Salary: How Much Do They Really Make?

To become a plumber, you need a high school diploma and must complete an apprenticeship program. Plumbing apprenticeships typically last four to five years and include both on-the-job training and classroom instruction. You will learn about pipe systems, water supply, drainage, building codes, blueprint reading, and safety procedures.

Apprenticeship programs are offered through unions like the United Association (UA) of Plumbers and Pipefitters, as well as non-union programs through trade associations and community colleges. During your apprenticeship, you earn a wage that increases as you advance through the program.

After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass a state or local licensing exam to become a journeyman plumber. The exam tests your knowledge of plumbing codes, installation techniques, and safety regulations. Many states require a certain number of work hours in addition to passing the exam.

Master plumber licensure requires additional years of experience beyond your journeyman license and passing a more advanced exam. A master plumber license allows you to pull permits, design plumbing systems, supervise other plumbers, and operate your own plumbing business. Many successful plumbers eventually start their own contracting companies.

The job outlook for plumbers shows steady demand, with about 2% growth projected from 2022 to 2032. While the growth rate is modest, the ongoing need for plumbing services in new construction, renovations, and repair work ensures a steady stream of job opportunities. Plumbing skills are always needed and cannot be outsourced.

A significant number of experienced plumbers are approaching retirement age, creating additional job openings for new plumbers entering the field. This demographic shift is expected to create more opportunities than the growth rate alone suggests, with approximately 42,600 openings projected each year.

Plumbers who specialize in areas like green plumbing, medical gas systems, or commercial sprinkler systems can command higher wages. Those who start their own plumbing businesses have the potential to earn significantly more than employees, with successful plumbing contractors earning six figures or more.