How Much Do Plumbers Make?
How Much Do Plumbers
Plumbers make a wide range of salaries depending on their experience level. They can start out as an apprentice, work their way up to a journeyman or master and then become a senior plumber. The lowest paid in the field are entry level plumbers, while those with the highest qualifications can earn over $100,000 a year.
The pay scale for a plumber differs from state to state, with a lot of variations in wages due to regional cost of living and job availability. Fortunately, industry and state averages make it easy for plumbing companies to determine an appropriate salary. A high school diploma is often sufficient to become a plumber, though some states require additional technical training and an apprenticeship.
It’s possible to get a degree in plumbing or a related field, but this is often expensive. Instead, some plumbers choose to pursue a certificate or associate’s degree in the trade. Apprenticeships can cost up to a few thousand dollars. This may be less than the thousands of dollars in loans required for a traditional undergraduate degree.
How Much Do Plumbers Make?
Wages for plumbing technicians generally increase the most during their first few years in the field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. After a few years, however, their pay level is relatively stable. Plumbers are among the most common types of service technicians, and they usually work in commercial or residential settings. They install, repair and maintain water, sewer and gas systems.
Their duties also include working with plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks and faucets. They can also fix and replace water heaters and automatic shutoff valves. They can be found in all parts of the country, including the most populous areas like Los Angeles and New York City. They are especially popular in metropolitan areas where they can often be hired by home owners for an hourly rate.
In general, a journeyman plumber makes about $45,500 a year, while a master plumber can make $90,000 or more. Salaries for plumbers also vary based on their experience level and the type of plumbing they do. Those in the commercial sector of the plumbing industry often earn higher salaries than those who do residential plumbing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is because commercial plumbing jobs are more challenging and require more skill and experience.
The average starting salary for plumbers is $26 per hour. This figure includes tips and overtime pay. Plumbers can be employed full-time or part-time. Most of them are union members, and they enjoy a good pension and health benefits. Their salaries are typically based on a percentage of their income, but some plumbers receive fixed pay or a flat fee. Some may earn bonuses for job performance or referrals to customers.
The national median starting salary for plumbers is $26 an hour, but that can vary widely by location and industry. The highest salaries are found in the most urban areas, while plumbers in rural or remote locations can earn much less.