No matter if you’re new or experienced in the plumbing industry, you likely want to know if you’re earning (or paying your plumbers) a fair wage. Chances are, you’ve found yourself asking the question, “How much do plumbers make?”
Keep in mind, the U.S. nationwide salary is wide-ranging due to differences in region, experience, specialization and certifications. The averages presented in this article reflect average wages in the U.S. and do not take individual states into account. A look inside the U.S. nationwide salary will provide a better view into the state-by-state averages.
Whether you’re a plumber or business owner, this simple guide can help.
In this article we’ll dive into how much plumbers make based on experience and specialization. We’ll also cover the average salaries of:
- Apprentices
- Tradesmen
- Journeymen
- Master plumbers
Apprentice Salary
| Apprentice Salary | Per Year | Per Hour |
| Glassdoor | $43,699 | $19.82 |
| Indeed | $50,915 | $19.41 |
| PayScale | $40,185 | $16.39 |
| Salary.com | $41,900 | $20.14 |
| ZipRecruiter | $38,480 | $18.50 |
As an apprentice plumber, the salaries average from $38,480 to $50,915 per year. Alternatively, they earn an average between $16.39 and $19.82 per hour and a $5,000 average in additional overtime compensation per year.
Since an apprentice is an entry-level position for plumbers with usually less than two or three years of experience, starting salaries tend to have a wider range. Keep in mind, these plumbers require unique supervision and training, so different locations and businesses reflect this in their salary offering.
Tradesman Salary
According to Glassdoor, a tradesman plumber has an average salary of $48,823, per year. In most states, they still require supervision from a journeyman or master plumber for certain plumbing services. Depending on your state’s requirements, a tradesman may also supervise an apprentice plumber.
Journeyman Salary
| Journeyman Salary | Per Year | Per Hour |
| Glassdoor | $65,518 | $31.49 |
| Indeed | $61,462 | $30.73 |
| Salary.com | $62,400 | $30 |
| ZipRecruiter | $60,156 | $28.92 |
A journeyman plumber’s salary averages between $60,156 and $65,518 per year. Alternatively, they earn an average between $28.92 and $31.49 per hour with about $20,847 in additional overtime compensation per year.
While a journeyman plumber can oversee an apprentice, and in some cases, a tradesman, they still require direct supervision from a master plumber for certain services.
Master Plumber Salary
| Master Plumber Salary | Per Year | Per Hour |
| Glassdoor | $103,321 | $49.67 |
| PayScale | $62,670 | $30.13 |
| Salary.com | $62,159 | $29.88 |
| ZipRecruiter | $67,216 | $32.31 |
Master plumbers average a salary between $62,159 and $103.32 and their hourly pay may range from $27.26 to $30 per hour.
In most cases, a master plumber is the final position in the plumber career path prior to leadership or ownership of a new business. Although their position is not the same as a plumbing inspector, master plumbers oversee all plumbers and aid greatly in the training process.
Remember, depending on your state, you might have different licenses and certifications you’ll need to acquire for a master plumber position. As always, check your state’s specific requirements.
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Now You Know the Answer: How Much Does a Plumber Make?
Keep in mind, how much plumbers make is largely dependent on your state and surrounding area. The numbers presented in this article reflect average salaries in the United States. It’s important to research your state’s specific salary averages for the most accurate estimate.
Now, you know the answer to the big question, “How much does a plumber make?” Use what you’ve discovered in this easy guide to determine how much plumbers earn based on their level of experience and specialization.
Related: The 2022 Plumber Salary Guide
