Plumbing continues to be a stable, in-demand trade in the U.S., and Fort Worth, Texas is no exception. In 2026, plumbers in Fort Worth enjoy competitive wages that reflect both the city’s growing population and robust construction industry. This guide will help you understand the average salary range, what influences earnings, how experience impacts pay, job market trends, career benefits, and how Fort Worth compares with other cities.
💰 Average Plumber Salary in Fort Worth, TX (2026)
According to recent salary data, plumber pay in Fort Worth varies based on source, role, and experience level.
Key salary figures (2026):
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | $63,151 (midpoint estimate) |
| Typical Salary Range | $46,887 – $79,537 |
| Hourly Average | $30 – $31.17/hr |
| Journeyperson Average | $63,916/year |
| Broad Range Reported | $40,000 – $137,500+ (varies widely) |
In general, plumbers in Fort Worth tend to earn below some higher-paying metro areas but still above the national median for trade workers — making it a financially viable career choice.
🧰 Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in how much a plumber earns. Here’s a breakdown based on typical career progression:
🔹 Entry-Level Plumbers
Usually apprentices or newly licensed plumbers
Assist with basic installations, repairs, maintenance
Often paid hourly with room for overtime
Typical earnings: ~$46,000 – $55,000 annually
🔹 Mid-Level (Journeyperson) Plumbers
Full job responsibilities
Handle residential and commercial tasks
Can supervise apprentices
Average earnings: ~$60,000 – $65,000/year
🔹 Experienced & Senior Plumbers
Specialized skills (gas lines, complex installs)
Leadership roles, possibly managing teams
Often earn above median, with bonuses or overtime
Earnings range: ~$65,000 – $80,000+
🔹 Top Earners / Specialized Trades
Commercial, industrial, or business owners
Emergency services or advanced specialties
Can exceed $100,000 annually in some cases
📊 What Influences Plumber Salaries in Fort Worth?
Several factors contribute to how much a plumber can make:
📌 Certifications & Licenses
Journeyperson and Master plumber licenses boost pay
Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention) often increase value
📌 Experience & Reputation
Proven professionals command higher hourly rates
Reputation and quality of work feed client referrals
📌 Union vs. Non-Union
Union plumbers sometimes earn higher baseline pay and better benefits
📌 Type of Work
Residential jobs typically pay less than commercial or industrial contracts
📌 Overtime & Emergency Services
Working nights or emergency call-outs usually increases take-home pay.
🎓 Education & Certification Impact
In Texas, becoming a plumber generally follows this path:
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship program (often 4–5 years)
Journeyperson licensing exam
Optional specialization or Master plumber credentials
Certified plumbers consistently earn higher wages than non-licensed peers — with advanced credentials often translating to 10–30% higher pay.
📈 Job Market Trends (2026)
The demand for plumbers remains strong in Fort Worth and Texas overall.
🔹 Growth Drivers
Continued residential and commercial construction
Infrastructure expansion and retrofitting
Aging systems needing maintenance or upgrades
State occupational projections show growth in plumbing and related trades through the end of the decade, driven by population increases and retirements in the workforce.
Job security in plumbing is also notable because these skills are less susceptible to automation compared with many other fields.
🎁 Benefits of a Plumbing Career
Plumbing offers more than just a paycheck. Common benefits include:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holiday pay
Opportunities for overtime and bonuses
Strong job security
Potential to start your own business
Portable skills across the U.S.
Union plumbers may also receive pension plans and apprenticeship training support — adding value beyond base salary.
📍 Compare with Other Cities
Here’s how Fort Worth plumber salaries stack up against other Texas cities and regions in 2026:
| City | Approx. Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Fort Worth, TX | $63,000 – $65,000 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth Metro | Similar to Fort Worth (~$63,000) |
| Austin, TX | ~$64,000+/year |
| McKinney, TX | ~$63,000/year |
This comparison shows that Fort Worth is competitive with nearby cities, though some fast-growing suburbs may pay slightly more.
📈 Job Outlook & Long-Term Prospects
The future looks bright for plumbers in Fort Worth, with solid job openings and a steady stream of projects requiring skilled labor. Major factors supporting this outlook include:
Population growth
High construction demand
Retirement of older skilled workers creating openings
Plumbing is also considered a recession-resilient trade, meaning that even during economic downturns, demand for repairs and essential services typically continues.
🔍 Final Thoughts
In 2026, a plumbing career in Fort Worth, TX offers a stable, rewarding path with solid salary potential. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, the Fort Worth market provides opportunities for growth, specialization, and strong lifetime earnings. For those willing to invest in certifications and build expertise, plumbing remains a smart choice for long-term success.