Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary Guide 2025: Median $63,800
The median annual salary for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters hit $63,800 in 2025, with the top 10% earning over $108,420. That's a solid middle-class wage, and the 465,840 workers in this occupation enjoy faster-than-average job growth. But pay varies wildly by state and specialty—knowing where to work can boost your income by tens of thousands.
How much Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national mean wage of $72,170, or roughly $31 an hour. Half of all workers fall between $44,150 and $108,420 (10th to 90th percentile). That's a wide span because pay depends on experience, location, union status, and whether you specialize in new construction, service work, or industrial pipefitting.
Union members typically earn more—sometimes 20-30% above the median—thanks to collective bargaining for wages, benefits, and overtime rules. Non-union workers, especially in residential service, may start closer to the lower end.
Pay by state
Location is a huge factor. The District of Columbia tops the list at a mean wage of $101,020, followed by Illinois ($99,950), Oregon ($97,050), Minnesota ($94,410), and Alaska ($93,920). These states tend to have strong construction sectors, high union density, or high cost-of-living adjustments.
At the other end, Idaho ($52,380), South Dakota ($51,620), and Arkansas ($48,660) pay well below the national median. That's $30,000 to $40,000 less than top-tier states. If you're mobile, moving to a high-wage state can dramatically change your earning potential.
- Highest-paying: District of Columbia ($101,020), Illinois ($99,950), Oregon ($97,050), Minnesota ($94,410), Alaska ($93,920)
- Lowest-paying: Idaho ($52,380), South Dakota ($51,620), Arkansas ($48,660)
How to become Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitter
The standard route is a four- to five-year apprenticeship combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices learn cutting, threading, welding, blueprint reading, and local building codes. Unions and contractor associations run many apprenticeships; you can also find them through technical schools or community colleges.
After completing an apprenticeship, you must get a state or local journeyman license, which typically requires passing an exam. Many jurisdictions require continuing education to renew licenses. Some plumbers eventually earn master plumber status, which allows them to run their own business and often doubles their earning potential.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 4.5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 44,000 job openings each year, mostly from retirements and new construction. Population growth and aging infrastructure keep demand strong—someone needs to fix those leaky pipes and install new systems.
Specialized skills like medical gas piping, green plumbing (water conservation), and high-pressure steam fitting can give you an edge. Workers with welding certifications or computerized pipe-cutting experience are especially valued.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?
The District of Columbia has the highest mean wage at $101,020, followed by Illinois ($99,950) and Oregon ($97,050).
How long does it take to become a plumber or pipefitter?
Most apprenticeships last 4 to 5 years. After that, you need a journeyman license, which varies by state. Some additional exams or continuing education may be needed for a master license.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters job growth?
The BLS projects 4.5% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. This creates about 44,000 new job openings per year nationally.
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 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters data.