Which states have the highest plumber salaries?
The average plumber’s salary in the United States varies by region and years of experience. The five states with the highest hourly pay for plumbers are listed below, and according to the same BLS research, they pay an average of $40.37 per hour.
Illinois
- Average hourly wage: $41.44
- Average annual wage: $86,200
Alaska
- Average hourly wage: $41.01
- Average annual wage: $85,300
Massachusetts
- Average hourly wage: $40.43
- Average annual wage: $84,090
New Jersey
- Average hourly wage: $39.78
- Average annual wage: $82,740
Outside of the states with the highest salaries, there are other top-paying urban areas with greater income ranges, sometimes as a result of a higher cost of living.
For instance, the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara region in California has a mean yearly wage of $94,580. The average yearly wage in the Boston-Cambridge-Nashua metropolitan area in Massachusetts and New Hampshire is $85,340.
What is the typical first-year pay for plumbers?
There are various levels in the industry, and it can take a few years to reach the maximum plumber income. There are three phases of training for plumbers: apprentice, journey-level, and master plumber. While licensure differs by state, in general.
Many states demand technical education beyond a high school graduation, along with an apprenticeship for on-the-job training. When compared to paying for a conventional bachelor degree, apprentice plumbers can save thousands of dollars by working while seeking credentials.
Because they are combining their education with job experience, entry-level or apprentice plumbers can anticipate lesser pay. The median annual income range for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the 10th through 25th percentile is $36,700 to $46,590.
After completing this training, apprentices are at the journey-level, meaning they have all the necessary knowledge and expertise to work as a plumber on their own.
A journey-level plumber typically advances to the following step after passing state licensure tests. Master plumbers are qualified to manage other plumbers and run their own plumbing company.
Like many other professions, plumbers can expect to make more money as they gain expertise and experience.
Pro tip: Working closely with experienced plumbers as an apprentice can also mean developing key connections for future job prospects. This will give you a head start on your career with less debt at the beginning.
