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Plumber — Job Market — United States

Salary data, skills requirements, and demand insights for Plumber roles — United States.

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Last Updated: June 7, 2026
Plumber — Job Market — United States

The Plumber job market in the United States offers a salary range of USD 47,850 to 86,130, with a median of 63,800. Demand drivers for plumbers stem from ongoing construction projects in housing, commercial real estate, and infrastructure sectors. Regional factors, such as population growth in urban areas, influence market dynamics. Plumbing systems play a critical role in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and maintenance, making this role essential across sectors in the U.S.

Market Overview

42,600 annual job openings (U.S.)
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.
$63,800 avg. annual salary
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.
Outlook: 2
10-year projection

Typical Candidate Profile

2-8 experience
Typical for this role
High school diploma
Most common education

Most requested skills:

Plumbing Systems Pipe Fitting Code Compliance Blueprint Reading Troubleshooting

Common certifications:

Journeyman License Master Plumber OSHA
Based on U.S. occupation data (O*NET)

Salary Range

$47,850
Entry
$63,800
Mid-Level
$86,130
Senior
Entry
$47,850
Mid-Level
$63,800
Senior
$86,130
Based on U.S. national data (BLS)

Skills Employers Look For

Having expertise in Plumbing Systems, Pipe Fitting, Code Compliance, Blueprint Reading, and Troubleshooting is crucial for Plumbers in the United States. These skills are highly valued in the market as they ensure efficient installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems, aligning with industry standards and regulations.

Most valued skills
Blueprint Reading
Troubleshooting
Additional skills that give candidates an edge
Plumbing Systems
Pipe Fitting
Code Compliance
use safety equipment in construction
plumbing tools

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the Plumber job market — United States.

Plumbers in the United States earn an average salary ranging from USD 47,850 to 86,130, with variations based on experience, industry specialization, and geographic location. Industries like construction and utilities tend to offer higher pay scales, while experienced plumbers command higher compensation.

In the United States, skills like Plumbing Systems, Pipe Fitting, and Troubleshooting are in high demand for Plumbers due to the emphasis on efficiency, safety, and compliance with building codes. Emerging trends in green building and sustainable practices also drive the need for plumbers with knowledge of eco-friendly technologies.

The career outlook for Plumbers in the United States shows a steady 2% projected growth, fueled by ongoing construction projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a need for retrofitting existing plumbing systems. Automation impacts tasks but the human element in troubleshooting and complex installations ensures realistic job prospects.

The Plumber job market in the United States is moderately competitive, with factors like experience level, certifications, and specialized skills differentiating candidates. Top candidates showcase expertise in Blueprint Reading, Troubleshooting, and stay updated on industry trends to stand out in a competitive landscape.

This data amalgamates official labor statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), O*NET insights, and AI-enriched market analysis incorporating salary surveys and employer requirements. The methodology integrates multiple reputable sources to provide a comprehensive perspective on the Plumber job market.

To enhance your prospects as a Plumber in the United States, focus on gaining practical experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. Additionally, obtaining certifications like a Journeyman License, Master Plumber, and OSHA certification can boost your credibility and open up advanced career opportunities in the plumbing industry.
This site incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor/ETA. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. | U.S. employment statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Skills data from ESCO