Plumber Salary in the United States
Based on 456K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$65,674
$31.574/hr
▲ 2.3% vs 2023Salary Range
$48K – $123K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
456K
workers nationwide
Plumbers in the United States earn a median salary of $65,674 per year, reflecting the skilled nature of this trade. With over 456,000 workers employed in this field, plumbing remains a solid career option. However, earnings vary significantly across the country, with salaries ranging from $47,880 to $123,290 annually depending on various conditions.
Several factors influence plumber salary in the United States, including geographic location, experience level, and specialization. Urban areas and regions with higher costs of living typically offer higher wages. Additionally, self-employed plumbers and those with advanced certifications often earn more than entry-level workers. Job complexity, demand for services, and union membership also play important roles in determining individual earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Plumber
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $47,880 |
| 25th percentile | $63,710 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $65,674 |
| 75th percentile | $116,180 |
| 90th percentile | $123,290 |
Plumber Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Plumber
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Illinois | $96,200 | +46.5% | 19K |
| 2 | Oregon | $93,110 | +41.8% | 6K |
| 3 | Minnesota | $83,280 | +26.8% | 9K |
| 4 | Massachusetts | $83,260 | +26.8% | 16K |
| 5 | Alaska | $83,090 | +26.5% | 870 |
| 6 | District of Columbia | $81,950 | +24.8% | 640 |
| 7 | Washington | $79,070 | +20.4% | 12K |
| 8 | Hawaii | $78,540 | +19.6% | 3K |
| 9 | Wisconsin | $78,510 | +19.5% | 9K |
| 10 | New York | $78,460 | +19.5% | 23K |
Historical Salary Trend — Plumber
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $61,508 |
| 2023 | $64,205 |
| 2024 | $65,674 |
Plumber Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do plumbers make per hour in the United States?
- The median hourly wage for plumbers in the United States is $32/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $65,674, though hourly rates can vary based on experience, location, and employer.
What is the salary range for plumbers in the US?
- Plumber salaries in the United States range from $47,880 on the lower end to $123,290 on the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, specialization, and geographic location.
Which state pays plumbers the most?
- Illinois offers the highest pay for plumbers in the United States at $96,200 annually. This is significantly higher than the national median of $65,674.
How many plumbers are employed in the United States?
- There are currently 456,180 plumbers employed across the United States. This represents a substantial workforce in the skilled trades industry.