Plumber Salary by State (2025 Complete Data Guide)
Plumbing is one of the most recession-proof trades in America. People always need functioning water, sewage, and gas systems — no matter what the economy is doing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $61,550. For licensed master plumbers running their own business, six-figure incomes are common.
Plumber Salary by State (2025)
| State | Annual Mean Wage | Hourly Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $98,240 | $47.23 |
| Alaska | $95,680 | $46.00 |
| New Jersey | $89,410 | $42.99 |
| Massachusetts | $87,620 | $42.13 |
| New York | $85,940 | $41.32 |
| Hawaii | $84,510 | $40.63 |
| California | $83,070 | $39.94 |
| Connecticut | $80,220 | $38.57 |
| Nevada | $77,490 | $37.26 |
| Oregon | $75,630 | $36.36 |
| Washington | $74,180 | $35.66 |
| Minnesota | $73,920 | $35.54 |
| Maryland | $68,440 | $32.90 |
| Colorado | $67,810 | $32.60 |
| Pennsylvania | $66,550 | $32.00 |
| Ohio | $65,790 | $31.63 |
| Michigan | $64,310 | $30.92 |
| Texas | $58,340 | $28.05 |
| Arizona | $57,210 | $27.51 |
| Florida | $54,920 | $26.40 |
| Virginia | $60,880 | $29.27 |
| Georgia | $53,470 | $25.71 |
| North Carolina | $52,110 | $25.05 |
| Tennessee | $50,890 | $24.47 |
| Mississippi | $45,660 | $21.95 |
Plumber Salary by Experience Level
| Career Stage | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Plumbing Apprentice (Year 1–2) | $35,000 – $44,000 |
| Plumbing Apprentice (Year 3–5) | $44,000 – $56,000 |
| Journeyman Plumber | $58,000 – $80,000 |
| Master Plumber | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Plumbing Contractor (Owner) | $85,000 – $150,000+ |
| Pipefitter (Specialty) | $70,000 – $105,000 |
Plumbing Specialties That Pay More
General plumbing pays well, but these specialties push earning potential even higher:
- Pipefitter/Steamfitter: Works on industrial piping systems for power plants, refineries, and chemical plants. National median around $65,000, with top earners exceeding $100,000.
- Gas Line Specialist: Handles natural gas distribution systems. High-risk, high-pay work with strong licensing requirements.
- Medical Gas Installer (ASSE 6010): Installs and certifies medical gas systems in hospitals. Requires specialized certification but commands premium rates.
- Fire Sprinkler Fitter: Designs and installs fire suppression systems. Strong commercial demand, BLS median around $65,000.
- Green Plumbing Specialist: Greywater systems, rainwater harvesting, and high-efficiency fixtures are growing markets.
The Plumbing Job Outlook
The BLS projects 6% growth for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters through 2033. More importantly, industry associations warn of a severe worker shortage — tens of thousands of journeyman and master plumbers are expected to retire over the next decade with too few new entrants to replace them. This means:
- Increasing wages as competition for skilled plumbers intensifies
- Signing bonuses becoming more common in tight labor markets
- Faster advancement for newly trained plumbers
How to Become a Licensed Plumber
- Vocational training (optional): 1–2 years at a trade school covers plumbing codes, pipe fitting, and drainage systems.
- Apprenticeship: UA (United Association) 5-year programs are the standard — earn while you learn, with progressively increasing wages.
- Journeyman license: State-required exam after completing apprenticeship hours. Requirements vary by state.
- Master plumber license: Additional years of experience plus exam. Opens the door to contracting.
See the full Plumber Career Guide for training programs and licensing requirements by state. Also compare with the Pipefitter Salary Guide.
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