Plumber Salary Reality — What You Actually Take Home
Plumbers install and repair pipes and fixtures for water, gas, and drainage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFJob outlook: Faster than average (6% growth 2024-2034)
Take-home reality
A plumber earning the national median of $62,970 takes home approximately $4,386/month in a no-tax state and $3,898/month in a high-tax state like California.
The salary reality
A plumber earning the national median of $62,970 has solid purchasing power, with master plumbers and business owners often earning $90,000-$130,000+.
Where Plumber Salary Goes Furthest
Where Plumber Salary Is Most Stretched
Housing context
At median salary, plumbers can comfortably afford the median 1BR in most mid-size and smaller cities.
Career context
Plumbing offers strong income potential through apprenticeship rather than college — master plumbers who start contracting businesses often significantly exceed median income.
Income Reality Score — Columbus (best for this career)
Purchasing Power Reality
What a plumber salary feels like in other cities
Plumber Salary — FAQ
What is the average plumber salary?
The national median is $62,970 per BLS OEWS May 2025, with master plumbers and business owners often earning significantly more.
How long is a plumbing apprenticeship?
Typically 4-5 years combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Salary data: BLS OEWS May 2025. This is a picture, not a verdict.