When you’re running a plumbing business and hiring skilled workers, understanding plumbing school cost is crucial. The investment your future employees make in their education directly affects your talent pool. Whether you’re helping current employees upskill or evaluating new hires, knowing the true cost of education leads to smarter decisions.
This guide covers:
- Types of plumbing programs and their typical costs
- Hidden expenses many overlook
- How costs vary by location and school
- Financial aid options for employees
- Return on investment for plumbing education
- Tips for choosing the best program
Types of Plumbing Education Programs (and What They Cost)
Understanding each training path helps you assess your hires’ experience. Plumbing school cost varies depending on the program type:
Certificate Programs
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Cost: $1,000-$3,000
- Best For: Fast-track entry into the trade
Certificate programs are the quickest way into plumbing. The cost of a certificate program in plumbing can range from $1,000-$3,000, depending on the institution and location. These programs usually last 6-12 months. They’re perfect for people who want to get into the field fast.
Diploma Programs
- Duration: 6 months-2 years
- Cost: $3,000-$10,000
- Best For: In-depth, career-focused training
Diploma programs go deeper than certificates. They typically last 1-2 years and cost more. Students interested in enrolling in plumbing school can expect to pay between $3,000-$10,000, depending on in-state or out-of-state schools.
Online Training Programs
- Cost: $800-$1,500
- Example: Penn Foster’s Plumbing Tech Program–$939
- Best For: Flexibility and affordability
Online programs have become popular because they’re flexible. An online training program in plumbing costs $800-$1,500. You can enroll in the Penn Foster plumbing technology program which costs $939, making them one of the most affordable options.
Apprenticeships
- Duration: 4-5 years
- Cost: Free (plus a salary!)
- Best For: Hands-on learning while earning
Here’s the best part about apprenticeships—they actually pay students while they learn! When apprenticeship training programs are in question, they usually take longer to complete, but apprentices earn a salary while they learn on the job. This makes them very attractive to people who can’t afford traditional school.
Fun Fact: Did you know that some apprentices earn over $40,000 per year while still training?
Community College Programs
Community colleges offer associate degrees in plumbing or related trades. These programs typically cost around $8,000 and take about two years to complete. They combine classroom learning with hands-on training and often have strong connections with local employers. Community college programs are great for students who want a solid academic foundation along with their technical skills.
Breaking Down Plumbing School Costs
When we talk about plumbing school cost, tuition is just the beginning. Smart business owners know there are always hidden costs that add up quickly.
Textbooks, typically costing between $1,300 per year. But that’s not all. Students also need:
- Tools and equipment: $750
- Safety gear (boots, gloves, etc.): $200-$500
- Licensing exam fees: $35-$450
- Transportation costs: varies by location
- Lost wages during school: thousands (if not apprenticing)
Real Example: A Typical Program Cost
Let’s look at a real example. Apex Technical School’s 30-week undergraduate certificate program for plumbing and pipefitting costs $17,816 for tuition and fees and $590 for books and supplies. When you add tools and other expenses, students are looking at around $20,000 total.
How Location Affects Plumbing School Cost
Where you live makes a huge difference in education costs. Big cities usually cost more, but they also offer more job opportunities after graduation.
High-Cost Areas
Places like New York, California and Massachusetts have higher plumbing school cost because everything is more expensive there. But graduates also earn higher wages in these areas.
Low-Cost Areas
Rural areas and smaller cities often have more affordable programs. Community college plumbing programs in these areas typically cost between $2,000 and $6,000 for the full program. For example, programs in states like Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi often cost significantly less than similar programs in New York or California, where costs can exceed $15,000.
State-by-State Differences
Each state has different requirements for plumbers. Some states require more schooling, which means higher costs but also better-trained workers.
Fun Fact: New Jersey pays plumbers the highest average salary in the country.
Financial Aid and Payment Options
The good news is that students don’t have to pay the full plumbing school cost upfront. There are many ways to make plumbing education more affordable.
Federal Financial Aid
Many plumbing programs qualify for federal student aid. This includes:
- Pell Grants (free money that doesn’t need to be paid back)
- Student loans with low interest rates
- Work-study programs
Scholarships and Grants
Trade organizations often offer scholarships specifically for plumbing students. These can cover thousands of dollars in costs.
Employer Sponsorship
Some plumbing companies pay for their employees’ education. This creates loyalty and ensures they get skilled workers.
Payment Plans
Most schools offer payment plans that spread the plumbing school cost over several months. This makes it easier for students to manage their budgets.
Return on Investment: Is Plumbing School Worth It?
When you’re thinking about hiring decisions, it helps to know if plumbing school is a good investment for your potential employees.
Starting Salaries
New plumbers typically start at $35,000-$49,000 per year. That means they can pay off their education costs within the first few years of working.
Career Growth Potential
Employment of plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth means steady work and good job security.
Long-term Earning Potential
Experienced plumbers can earn $60,000-$80,000 per year or more. Master plumbers and business owners often earn six figures.
Job Security Benefits
Plumbing is recession-proof. People always need water and sewer systems fixed, no matter what the economy is doing.
Fun Fact: The median salary for plumbers in Illinois is $87,980. For the occupation, Illinois ranks highest among all states!
Choosing the Right Program for Your Budget
Not all plumbing programs are created equal. Here’s how to pick the best value for your plumbing school cost investment.
Questions to Ask Before Enrolling
- What’s the job placement rate after graduation?
- Do they help with licensing exam preparation?
- What kind of hands-on training do they provide?
- Are the instructors actual working plumbers?
- Do local plumbing companies hire their graduates?
Red Flags to Avoid
- Schools that promise unrealistic salaries
- Programs that cost way more than average
- Schools with poor online reviews
- Programs that don’t include hands-on training
- Schools that aren’t accredited
Getting the Most Value
The cheapest program isn’t always the best value. Look for schools that offer:
- Strong job placement assistance
- Modern equipment and facilities
- Experienced instructors
- Good reputation with local employers
- Comprehensive curriculum
Regional Differences in Plumbing Education
The plumbing school cost and requirements vary significantly across different regions of the country. Let’s review each region:
Northeast Region
Schools in states like New York and Massachusetts tend to be more expensive but offer comprehensive programs. The higher cost often reflects the higher wages plumbers earn in these areas.
Southeast Region
Southern states often have more affordable programs. Community colleges in states like Alabama, Georgia and Florida offer excellent value for plumbing education.
Midwest Region
The Midwest offers a good balance of affordable education and strong job markets. States like Illinois and Ohio have both reasonable plumbing school cost and good career prospects.
West Coast
California and Washington have higher education costs but also some of the highest plumber salaries in the country. The investment often pays off quickly.
The Future of Plumbing Education
Understanding where plumbing education is heading helps you make better hiring decisions and plan for your business’s future.
Technology Integration
Modern plumbing programs now include training on smart home systems, water conservation technology and digital diagnostic tools. This means higher plumbing school cost but better-trained graduates.
Green Plumbing Focus
Many programs now emphasize environmentally friendly plumbing practices. This specialty training can command higher wages.
Online Learning Growth
The pandemic accelerated online plumbing education. While hands-on training is still essential, theory and code classes work well online, potentially reducing costs.
Tips for Employers Supporting Employee Education
If you’re considering helping employees with their plumbing school cost, here are some smart strategies:
Education Reimbursement Programs
Offer to pay for education in exchange for a commitment to work for your company for a certain period. This ensures you get skilled workers and they get education funding.
Apprenticeship Sponsorship
Partner with local schools to sponsor apprentices. You get workers who are trained specifically for your needs.
Continuing Education Support
Help experienced employees get advanced certifications. This improves your service quality and employee loyalty.
Tax Benefits
Remember, education expenses for employees can often be tax-deductible business expenses.
Making Smart Investment Decisions
When you understand plumbing school cost, you can make better decisions about:
- What to pay new hires based on their education level
- Whether to invest in employee training
- How to structure apprenticeship programs
- Which schools produce the best workers for your company
The key is balancing cost with quality. The cheapest education isn’t always the best value and the most expensive isn’t always worth it.
Fun Fact: Licensed plumbers typically earn around 10% more than their non-licensed colleagues and licensing usually requires formal education!
FieldEdge can help your business with staffing and pricing – saving you hours each week! Book a FREE personalized demo today!
Investing In the Future with Plumbing School
Understanding plumbing school cost is essential for any plumbing business owner who wants to build a strong team and grow their company. The investment in plumbing education pays off through higher skills, better work quality and increased earning potential for both employees and employers.
The costs range widely – from $800 for online programs to over $10,000 for comprehensive technical school programs. But with strong job growth projected and good starting salaries, the return on investment is solid.
As a business owner, supporting your employees’ education through reimbursement programs, apprenticeships, or continuing education benefits everyone. You get skilled workers, they get career advancement and your customers get better service.
Here are a few key takeaways:
- Plumbing school cost ranges from $800-$10,000 depending on program type and location
- Online programs offer the lowest costs at $800-$1,000
- Apprenticeships pay students while they learn, making them the most affordable option
By better understanding plumbing school cost, you set your business up for greater success!
Related: 5 Tips to Find, Hire and Retain Great Plumbing Technicians
