Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: $63,010 median salary in 2025
The median annual salary for pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $63,010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's roughly $30 an hour. The typical pay range runs from about $42,900 at the 10th percentile to $106,970 at the 90th, meaning experienced workers in high-demand areas can pull in six figures.
More than 498,890 people held these jobs across the U.S. as of 2024. The work involves installing and repairing pipes that carry water, steam, gas, and waste. It's physically demanding but offers steady pay without a four-year degree.
How much Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters earn
The national average (mean) wage is $71,010, or about $34.15 per hour. The middle 50% earn between $52,720 and $79,130. New apprentices and workers in lower-cost areas tend to start near the 10th percentile, while master plumbers and those in specialized industrial settings hit the 90th.
Overtime is common in this field, especially during new construction rushes or emergency repairs. Many plumbers and pipefitters work more than 40 hours a week, which can push annual earnings well above the base hourly figure. The median pay of $63,010 is nearly $15,000 higher than the median for all occupations.
Pay by state
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not release state-level median wages specifically for this combined group. However, the OEWS data show that the highest-paying states for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters (the largest subgroup) tend to be Alaska, Illinois, Minnesota, and Washington, where mean wages exceed $80,000. Lower-paying states like Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia report mean wages around $48,000 to $52,000. Regional cost of living plays a major role. Pipelayers are often paid separately and can earn more in areas with heavy infrastructure projects.
How to become Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
The most common path is a four- or five-year apprenticeship. Apprentices earn a percentage of a journeyman's wage—usually starting at 30% to 50%—while getting paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs are run by union locals, trade associations, and technical schools. High school diplomas or GEDs are required, along with passing a drug test and sometimes an aptitude test.
After completing an apprenticeship, workers become journeymen and can take state-specific licensing exams. Most states require plumbers to be licensed; pipefitters and steamfitters may need certifications in welding or piping code knowledge. Continuing education is often needed to renew licenses.
- Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for a state-approved apprenticeship (4-5 years).
- Complete classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
- Pass licensing exams (requirements vary by state).
- Consider certifications like welding or backflow prevention to boost earning potential.
Job outlook
The BLS has not provided a specific growth projection for this combined group from 2024 to 2034. However, the broader category of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is expected to grow about 4% over the next decade, roughly as fast as the average for all occupations. Retirements and new construction will keep demand steady. Workers with multiple skills—like welding or green technology experience—will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
Is $63,010 the average or median for this occupation?
It's the median. Half of workers earn more, half less. The average (mean) is $71,010, pulled up by high earners at the top.
How long does it take to become a licensed plumber?
A typical apprenticeship runs 4 to 5 years. After that, you must pass your state's licensing exam, which can take extra months of study.
Do pipelayers earn the same as plumbers?
Not exactly. Pipelayers have a separate BLS code and often earn slightly less or more depending on region. The $63,010 median covers the entire combined group.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters data.