Becoming a plumber in Gilbert, AZ can offer a stable, rewarding career with competitive wages and strong long‑term job prospects. In 2026 the local construction market, population growth, and demand for skilled trades contribute to solid pay ranges for plumbers at all experience levels. This article breaks down average salaries, influencing factors, job outlook, certifications that matter, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
💰 Average Plumber Salary in Gilbert, AZ (2026)
Plumber salaries vary depending on experience, licensing, specialization, and employer type. According to recent compensation data, typical plumber earnings in Gilbert look like this:
| Plumber Role | Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | ~$43,500–$58,900* | ~$20–$28/hr* |
| Journeyman Plumber | ~$55,490–$75,967 (avg ~$64,180) | ~$27–$36/hr (avg ~$31/hr) |
| Average Plumber | ~$70,000–$76,685 (midpoint local estimate) | ~$33–$37/hr |
| Experienced / Senior Plumber | ~$90,000+* | ~$43+/hr* |
*Salary ranges for apprentice and senior plumbers are estimated based on reported hourly data and typical career progression in the area.
Key idea: Journeyman plumbers in Gilbert earn around $64,180/year on average with a common range from about $55,490 to nearly $76,000+ depending on experience and employer.
📈 Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in plumber pay progression. Here’s a breakdown of typical earnings by career stage:
🛠️ Apprentice Plumber (0–2 years)
Entry‑level, working under supervision
Focus on basic tasks and learning on the job
Pay range: ~$20.91/hr average ($43,500–$58,900 annually equivalent)
🔧 Journeyman Plumber (2–5+ years)
Fully licensed or nearing licensing requirements
Handles most residential and commercial jobs
Average: ~$64,180/year (~$31/hr)
⚙️ Experienced/Senior Plumber (5+ years)
Deep technical skills, leadership roles
May earn more through overtime or specialties
Salaries often exceed typical journeyman pay depending on company
📊 Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Multiple elements can push a plumber’s pay higher—or lower—in Gilbert:
🔹 Licensing & Certification
Journeyman vs. master plumber licensing can dramatically impact pay.
Specialty certifications (e.g., backflow testing, gas piping) increase marketability and hourly rates.
🔹 Type of Employer
Large companies or commercial contractors often pay more than small residential shops.
Self‑employed plumbers can increase earnings by setting their own hourly rates.
🔹 Demand & Seasonality
Construction booms and home renovation activity increase demand—and wages—for skilled plumbers.
Gilbert’s growth has sustained demand for new housing and infrastructure repairs.
🔹 Overtime & Emergency Calls
Service plumbers often earn overtime for nights/weekends, which boosts total income.
🔹 Economic Conditions
Local labor shortages or major projects can push wages upward.
🎓 Certifications & Education That Boost Pay
Plumbing careers require a mix of formal training and hands‑on experience. In Arizona:
📘 Education Path
High school diploma or equivalent
Apprenticeship programs (often 4–5 years of combined classroom and on‑the‑job hours)
Licensing exams as required by Arizona’s contractor and plumbing boards
📜 Valuable Certifications
Arizona Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Specialized credentials (e.g., backflow prevention, gas systems)
Certified plumbers with advanced credentials often command higher wages and more job opportunities.
📈 Job Market Trends in Gilbert, AZ
The plumber job market remains strong in and around Gilbert due to:
Population growth and housing development
Aging plumbing infrastructure requiring maintenance
Residential and commercial construction projects
Demand for upgrades and eco‑friendly plumbing systems
Job openings in the Gilbert area remain numerous, and plumbers with solid experience and certifications are in high demand year‑round.
💼 Benefits of Being a Plumber in Gilbert
Plumbing isn’t just about wages; it offers many career advantages:
👍 Perks of the Trade
High demand and job security
No college debt requirement
Potential for overtime and bonuses
Opportunities to start your own business
Hands‑on, varied daily work
Benefits packages offered by larger employers
Self‑employment can significantly increase income for seasoned plumbers who build a solid customer base.
📍 Plumber Salary Comparison: Gilbert vs Nearby Cities
Plumber wages can vary slightly across the Phoenix metro area:
| City | Avg. Plumber Salary |
|---|---|
| Gilbert, AZ | ~$64,000–$76,000 range* |
| Chandler, AZ | Similar to Gilbert (~$64,000 avg) |
| Mesa, AZ | ~$64,000 avg |
| Tempe, AZ | ~$64,000+ avg |
| Phoenix, AZ | ~$64,000 avg |
Note: Figures are estimates and can vary based on data sources and reporting methods.
Compared to state averages, Gilbert’s plumbing salaries are competitive and supported by strong local construction and service demand.
📅 Job Outlook for Plumbers in Gilbert (2026 and Beyond)
Plumbing is one of the most recession‑resilient trades. Demand is expected to remain stable or grow due to:
Population increase in Gilbert and surrounding areas
High rate of home building and renovations
Ongoing maintenance needs for older buildings
Infrastructural upgrades
Plumbers who pursue continuous learning, specialized certifications, and business ownership are well‑positioned for long‑term earning growth.
🧠 Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in Gilbert, AZ reflect a solid earning potential for both new and experienced tradespeople. With competitive wages, robust job demand, certification pathways, and flexibility to pursue self‑employment, plumbing offers a valuable career path without the college debt many other professions require.
If you’re considering a skilled trade with real growth opportunities, plumbing in Gilbert is worth exploring.