Plumbing is a high-demand skilled trade, and Denver, Colorado, offers competitive salaries for qualified professionals. In 2026, Denver’s growing population, expanding residential and commercial construction, and aging infrastructure contribute to strong demand for plumbers. Understanding the salary structure, benefits, and job outlook can help aspiring plumbers make informed career decisions.
This guide provides detailed insights into average plumber salaries in Denver, factors affecting pay, salary by experience, certifications, job trends, and comparisons with other major U.S. cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Denver, CO (2026)
Plumbers in Denver earn wages above the national average due to high demand and skilled labor shortages.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $63,000 | $24 – $30 |
| Mid-level | $68,000 – $88,000 | $33 – $42 |
| Experienced | $90,000 – $115,000 | $43 – $55 |
| Master / Specialized | $120,000 – $145,000+ | $58 – $70+ |
Average plumber salary in Denver (2026):
👉 Around $85,000 – $92,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly influences plumber earnings in Denver.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices working under supervision
Handle residential repairs and installations
May receive overtime pay to supplement income
Average pay: $50,000–$63,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Work independently on residential and commercial jobs
Capable of troubleshooting and managing small teams
Overtime and specialty work increases earnings
Average pay: $68,000–$88,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Lead larger commercial projects and complex installations
Often mentor apprentices or manage a crew
Eligible for performance bonuses
Average pay: $90,000–$115,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Handle specialized systems: medical gas, high-rise plumbing, gas lines
Own private businesses or work on government contracts
Emergency and specialized services increase earnings
Average pay: $120,000–$145,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Denver
Several key variables determine how much a plumber can earn:
Licensing level: Journeyman vs Master
Union membership
Type of plumbing: Residential, commercial, industrial
Specialized skills: Backflow prevention, medical gas, green plumbing
Business ownership or freelance work
Overtime and emergency calls
Plumbers offering 24/7 emergency services or specialized skills generally earn significantly more.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While a college degree is not required, certifications and licensing can increase income.
High-Value Certifications
Colorado Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
4–5 year apprenticeship program
State licensing exams
Certified plumbers can earn 15–25% more than non-certified peers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Denver (2026)
Denver’s plumbing job market is growing steadily, fueled by construction, urban expansion, and infrastructure upgrades.
Key Trends
Rising demand in residential and commercial construction
Aging water infrastructure needing upgrades
Labor shortage due to retirements and population growth
Growing interest in eco-friendly plumbing systems
Thousands of plumbing jobs are projected to remain open, making the career highly secure.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Denver
Beyond salary, plumbers enjoy various professional benefits:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement and pension plans (especially unionized positions)
Paid overtime and holiday work
High job security and consistent demand
Opportunities to start private businesses
Work flexibility for experienced plumbers
Unionized plumbers often have the best benefit packages, including paid training.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Denver vs Other Cities (2026)
Denver ranks among the competitive-paying cities for plumbers in the U.S., though slightly lower than coastal cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Denver, CO | $85,000 – $92,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $110,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $68,000 – $78,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $72,000 – $82,000 |
While Denver pays slightly less than coastal markets, the cost of living is lower, and job opportunities remain plentiful.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Denver
Denver’s cost of living is moderate compared to California cities, allowing plumbers to maintain a comfortable standard of living.
Insights
Higher wages balance housing and living costs
Overtime and emergency work provide additional income
Many plumbers live in surrounding suburbs to save on expenses
Union positions provide stable benefits and purchasing power
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Denver
The long-term outlook for plumbers in Denver is very promising.
Key Drivers
Plumbing is an essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous demand for repairs, installations, and upgrades
Infrastructure investments and urban growth
Retiring workforce creating new openings
Plumbing is considered recession-resistant, making it an excellent career for stability.
Why Choose a Plumbing Career in Denver in 2026?
Plumbing offers:
Strong earning potential without college debt
High job security and consistent demand
Opportunities for entrepreneurship
Career advancement from apprentice to master plumber
Flexibility in residential, commercial, or specialty fields
For those committed to completing an apprenticeship and obtaining licensing, plumbing in Denver is a smart, future-proof career choice.
Conclusion
In 2026, the plumber salary in Denver, CO reflects the city’s strong demand, growing population, and skilled labor shortage. With average salaries approaching six figures for experienced plumbers and excellent benefits, Denver remains an attractive city for both new and seasoned professionals in the plumbing trade. Proper licensing, certifications, and specialized skills can further boost earnings, making plumbing a rewarding and sustainable career path.