Becoming a plumber is a great career choice for those who enjoy working with their hands, solving problems, and earning a stable income.
Plumbing is not just a job—it’s a long-term career with opportunities for growth.
For those starting out, apprentice plumber salaries vary widely based on location and experience. On average, apprentice plumbers earn between $36,526 and $52,500 per year, with a national average of approximately $46,100 annually.
Some states offer higher wages due to increased demand and cost of living. In California, Massachusetts, Alaska, Washington, and New Jersey, apprentices can earn some of the highest wages in the field.
- In California, entry-level plumbers earn around $27.26 per hour ($56,700 annually).
- In Washington and New Jersey, hourly wages for apprentices typically range from $26 to $27 per hour.
In major cities like San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, and New York City, entry-level plumbers can out-earn many college graduates on their first day, making up to $29–$30 per hour—significantly above the national average. However, rural areas tend to offer lower wages, often balanced by a lower cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Region
High-Paying Cities for Apprentice Plumbers
Apprentices in these cities earn some of the highest wages in the country:
- San Francisco, CA – $61,700 annually ($29.66 per hour)
- New York City, NY – $58,300 annually ($28.03 per hour)
- Newark, NJ – $57,600 annually ($27.69 per hour)
- Seattle, WA – $56,900 annually ($27.36 per hour)
- Bridgeport, CT – $56,600 annually ($27.36 per hour)
Mid-Paying Regions
States like Texas, Florida, and Colorado fall into the mid-range salary category:
- Annual salaries: $50,000 – $52,800
- Hourly wages: $24 – $25
While these states may not offer the highest wages, they provide strong career opportunities with a moderate cost of living.
Lower-Paying Regions
Southern states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and West Virginia typically offer lower wages for apprentice plumbers:
- Annual salaries: $47,900 – $48,400
- Hourly wages: Around $23
Factors That Affect Pay
Several factors influence apprentice plumber salaries:
- Location – Cities like San Francisco and New York pay higher wages due to increased demand and cost of living.
- Cost of Living – Higher wages in urban areas come with higher housing, transportation, and food expenses.
- Experience Level – Wages increase as apprentices gain experience and complete training.
- Local Demand – Regions with high construction activity or aging infrastructure often offer better pay.
- Union Membership – Union apprenticeships generally provide higher wages and better benefits.
The Path to Higher Earnings
Plumbing offers significant wage growth over time:
- Apprentice Plumber – Starts at about half the wage of a journeyman plumber, with steady increases.
- Journeyman Plumber – After completing an apprenticeship and licensing exams, journeymen earn an average salary of $75,700 per year.
- Master Plumber – With additional certifications and experience, master plumbers can earn an average of $62,800 annually. However, salaries for master plumbers vary widely depending on location.
Many master plumbers go on to start their own businesses or take supervisory roles, increasing their earning potential even further.
Final Thoughts
Apprentice plumbers in the U.S. have excellent career opportunities, with competitive wages and room for advancement. Salaries vary based on location, but plumbing offers a stable career with strong financial potential.
Whether you prefer the high wages of big cities or the lower cost of living in rural areas, plumbing provides a solid path to financial stability and career growth. As you progress from apprentice to journeyman to master plumber, your earnings will continue to rise—making plumbing an excellent long-term career choice.