In this article, we’ll show you how much a plumber makes. We’ll also show you the best jobs in the plumbing industry for entry-level and experienced plumbers.
How much money can you make as a plumber?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for plumbers are expected to grow 9% from 2018 through 2028, which is faster than the projected national average for all occupations (7%). By comparison, jobs in construction (8%) and extraction (10%) occupations are also projected to grow at faster rates than those in other occupations (7%). In addition, BLS has predicted that wages earned by plumbers will increase at a rate faster than those in other occupations (10% vs 8%). According to PayScale’s salary report, the median pay earned by plumbers is approximately $26 per hour or $52,000 per year.
This may seem like a lot of money but if you consider that there are roughly 2 million plumbing technicians in the United States alone and that they earn an annual median income of $52,000 you can see why this career path is worth considering as your next career move! The good news is that salaries tend to vary depending on where you live and what type of business or company you work for.
Apprentice plumber salary
Apprenticeship is a great way to start your career as a plumber. This is the best way to get your foot in the door and find out if you like working with your hands or in an office setting. As an apprentice plumber, you will work onsite with a licensed plumber, learning all about plumbing from the ground up. You can expect to earn anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 per year depending on where you live and what type of company you are working for. If you are just starting out it may be worth your time to get an associates degree in plumbing first before entering into an apprenticeship program.
Journeyman plumber salary
Journeyman plumbers have worked with a licensed plumber for at least three years and have been working in the plumbing industry for at least one year. These plumbers are highly experienced and can be hired by most companies in any location. Journeyman plumbers earn between $25,000 and $35,000 per year depending on the company you work for. If you plan on staying in this career path for the long term, you may want to consider getting your bachelor’s degree in plumbing or a related field first before starting your journey as a journeyman.
Licensed plumber salary
If you plan on becoming a licensed plumber you will need to pass an exam given by the state board of plumbing. You must be at least 18 years old and have two years of experience working as a journeyman or apprentice before being eligible to take this test. Once you pass this test, it will allow you to be considered a licensed plumber by your state board of plumbing. Licensed plumbers earn anywhere from $26,000 to $45,000 per year depending on where you live and what type of company or business you work for.
Master plumber salary
Becoming a master plumber is the pinnacle of plumbing careers. This is the highest level of plumbing that can be attained. Becoming a master plumber requires at least five years of experience working as a journeyman or licensed plumber and three years of experience working as an apprentice. Master plumbers are highly skilled and can earn anywhere from $45,000 to $60,000 per year depending on where you live and what type of company you work for.
Certified plumbing technician salary
Becoming a certified plumbing technician is a great way to earn a high salary. This career path is ideal for those who want to become an independent contractor, as you are not required to work for any one company. This is the highest level of plumbing that can be attained. Certified plumbers are highly skilled and can earn anywhere from $60,000 to $80,000 per year depending on where you live and what type of company or business you work for. Becoming a certified plumber may be the best way to get into this lucrative career path if you already have experience working in the plumbing industry.
