Introduction
Plumbers are highly skilled professionals who install and repair piping systems for residential and commercial buildings. They work with materials such as copper pipes, brass fixtures, and PVC piping, as well as a range of other tools and equipment. Plumbers must have strong problem-solving skills, excellent customer service, and the ability to read blueprints and follow instructions.
So, how much does a plumber make? The average salary of a plumber is $53,910 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, wages can vary widely depending on location, experience level, and other factors. This article will explore the wages and benefits plumbers can expect to earn.
A Comprehensive Look at Plumber Salaries
The BLS reports that in 2019, the median annual wage for plumbers was $53,910, or $25.90 per hour. This figure is slightly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, which was $39,810 in 2019.
It’s important to note that the wages of plumbers can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. These include location, experience level, and type of job. For example, plumbers who work in metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those who work in rural areas. Additionally, journeyman plumbers typically earn more than apprentices.
How Much Do Plumbers Earn? An Overview of Wages
The BLS reports that the highest-paying states for plumbers are Alaska ($83,920), New Jersey ($77,040), Hawaii ($73,580), Illinois ($71,000), and Connecticut ($70,660). The lowest-paying states are Mississippi ($37,490), South Dakota ($39,260), Arkansas ($41,690), West Virginia ($45,300), and Montana ($46,680).
When it comes to metropolitan areas, the highest-paying cities for plumbers are San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($97,340), Nassau County-Suffolk County, NY ($87,510), Santa Ana-Anaheim-Irvine, CA ($80,870), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($78,480), and Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley, CA ($77,530).
What You Need to Know About Plumber Pay
In addition to wages, plumbers may also receive benefits and bonuses. These may include medical and dental insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation, and other perks. Some employers may also offer performance bonuses based on job performance.
The job outlook for plumbers is also positive. The BLS projects that employment of plumbers is expected to grow 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
Exploring the Pay Scale for Plumbers
Entry-level plumbers typically start out at around $15 to $20 per hour. With experience and additional training, they can earn up to $30 per hour or more. Journeyman plumbers typically earn between $22 and $50 per hour.
The amount of money a plumber makes also depends on their level of education. Plumbers with a college degree may earn more than those without one. Additionally, plumbers with several years of experience typically earn more than those with less experience.
A Breakdown of Plumber Wages Across the U.S.
As mentioned earlier, wages for plumbers can vary greatly depending on location. To provide a better understanding of plumber salaries across the United States, we’ve broken down average salaries by state and metro area.
The following table shows the average salaries of plumbers in each state, as reported by the BLS:
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $83,920 |
| New Jersey | $77,040 |
| Hawaii | $73,580 |
| Illinois | $71,000 |
| Connecticut | $70,660 |
| Mississippi | $37,490 |
| South Dakota | $39,260 |
| Arkansas | $41,690 |
| West Virginia | $45,300 |
| Montana | $46,680 |
The following table shows the average salaries of plumbers in each metropolitan area, as reported by the BLS:
| Metro Area | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | $97,340 |
| Nassau County-Suffolk County, NY | $87,510 |
| Santa Ana-Anaheim-Irvine, CA | $80,870 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $78,480 |
| Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley, CA | $77,530 |
Conclusion
Overall, plumbers can expect to earn a competitive wage and receive generous benefits. The average salary of a plumber is $53,910 per year, although wages can vary significantly depending on location, experience level, and other factors. Plumbers in metropolitan areas typically earn more than those in rural areas, and experienced plumbers typically earn more than entry-level plumbers.
For those looking to enter the field of plumbing, it’s important to consider the wages and benefits offered in your area. With the right training and experience, plumbers can look forward to a bright future in this rewarding profession.
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