Plumbing remains a highly reliable and well-paying trade in the United States, and Portland, Oregon is no exception. In 2026, plumber salaries in Portland continue to rise due to strong residential and commercial construction, aging infrastructure, and a growing population that requires skilled plumbing services.
This guide explores average plumber salaries in Portland, earnings by experience, factors that affect pay, job market trends, benefits, certifications, and comparisons with other cities to give you a complete view of the plumbing profession in the city.
Average Plumber Salary in Portland, OR (2026)
Plumbers in Portland earn competitive wages compared to the national average. The city’s steady construction industry and urban growth contribute to higher earnings.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $63,000 | $24 – $30 |
| Mid-level | $65,000 – $85,000 | $31 – $41 |
| Experienced | $90,000 – $110,000 | $43 – $53 |
| Master / Specialized | $115,000 – $140,000+ | $55 – $67+ |
Average plumber salary in Portland (2026):
👉 Around $80,000 – $90,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience strongly impacts plumber salaries in Portland.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Apprenticeship or newly licensed plumbers
Supervised work, primarily residential repairs
Learning core skills and codes
Average pay: $50,000–$63,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most residential and light commercial jobs
Troubleshooting and repair of standard systems
Eligible for higher hourly rates and overtime
Average pay: $65,000–$85,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Large commercial projects, inspections, and system design
Supervisory roles and project management
Higher compensation, often with bonuses
Average pay: $90,000–$110,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Gas, medical, and industrial systems
Business owners or independent contractors
Emergency and government contracts
Average pay: $115,000–$140,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Portland
Several factors affect how much a plumber can earn:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing level (Journeyman vs. Master)
Union vs. non-union work
Type of plumbing (residential, commercial, industrial)
Overtime and emergency call availability
Specialized skills (gas lines, backflow prevention)
Business ownership or freelancing
Plumbers offering emergency services or specialized skills often earn significantly more.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Certifications can greatly enhance earning potential in Portland.
High-Value Certifications
Oregon Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship program (4–5 years)
State licensing exams
Certified and licensed plumbers can earn 15–30% more than unlicensed or apprentice-level workers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Portland (2026)
The plumbing job market in Portland remains strong due to steady growth and infrastructure needs.
Current Trends
Increased demand for residential renovations and new housing
Strong commercial construction projects
Aging plumbing infrastructure requiring repairs
Rising interest in eco-friendly plumbing systems
Retirement of older plumbers creating opportunities for new workers
Portland consistently reports a high demand for skilled plumbers, offering good job security.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Portland
Plumbers enjoy competitive compensation and additional professional benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Union pensions and retirement plans
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Year-round job stability
Opportunity to start private plumbing businesses
High demand ensures steady work
Union plumbers typically receive some of the best benefits in the skilled trades.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Portland vs Other Cities (2026)
Portland offers competitive wages but slightly below other major West Coast cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Portland, OR | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $85,000 – $100,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $110,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| Denver, CO | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Although Portland pays slightly less than San Francisco or Los Angeles, it offers lower cost of living and strong growth opportunities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Portland
Portland has a moderate cost of living compared to California cities.
Key Takeaways
Salaries offset the city’s housing costs
Overtime opportunities boost net income
Many plumbers commute from nearby suburbs for affordability
Union wages provide added financial security
Smart budgeting allows plumbers to maintain a comfortable standard of living in Portland.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Portland
The outlook for plumbers in Portland is very strong through 2030.
Why the Outlook Is Positive
Essential trade with minimal automation risk
Consistent demand for repair, maintenance, and upgrades
Infrastructure investment by the city and private developers
Growing population increases residential plumbing demand
Plumbing remains one of the most stable and recession-resistant careers in Portland.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Portland in 2026?
Yes. Plumbing offers:
Competitive salaries without college debt
Excellent job security
Opportunities for entrepreneurship
Long-term growth and advancement
Apprentices and licensed professionals alike can find lucrative and stable opportunities.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in Portland, OR reflect the city’s strong demand for skilled trades and urban growth. Average earnings are solid, benefits are competitive, and job stability is high. With licensing, certification, and experience, plumbing can be a rewarding and future-proof career choice in Portland.