Plumbers' earnings vary significantly based on location, experience, and employment status.
In the UK:
- Apprentice plumbers earn around £18,500 per year (pre-tax).
- Newly qualified plumbers make about £29,000 annually.
- Experienced plumbers can earn approximately £45,500 per year.
- Self-employed plumbers or business owners can earn between £65,000 and £73,000 annually (pre-tax), though they have additional business expenses to consider
In the United States:
- Entry-level plumbers typically earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year.
- The median annual salary for plumbers is around $59,880.
- Experienced plumbers can make from $50,000 up to $80,000 or more annually.
- The top 10% of plumbers earn upwards of $97,000 per year.
- Hourly wages average about $22 to $29, depending on experience and location.
- Salaries vary by state, with higher wages in states like Illinois, Oregon, and Alaska, and lower wages in states like South Dakota and Mississippi
Overall, plumbing is a stable and well-paying trade, with opportunities to increase income through experience, specialization, or self-employment.