Plumbing is one of the most stable and rewarding skilled trades in the U.S., and Irving, Texas — part of the vibrant Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex — offers solid opportunities for plumbers at all levels. In 2026, plumber salaries in Irving reflect a competitive local market shaped by urban growth, construction demand, and experienced trade professionals. This SEO‑friendly guide breaks down average incomes, experience impacts on pay, industry trends, and how Irving compares to nearby cities.
🔧 Average Plumber Salary in Irving, TX (2026)
In Irving, plumbers earn competitive wages that align closely with the Dallas‑Fort Worth metro average.
💼 Salary Overview
| Role | Average Hourly | Approx. Annual Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | ~$23.83/hr | ~$49,600 |
| Plumber | ~$29.63/hr | ~$61,600 |
| Journeyperson Plumber | – | ~$57,800* |
| Senior Plumber | ~$34+ /hr | ~$70,000+* |
*Estimated based on reported job postings and regional data.
Average plumber hourly wage in Irving: around $29.63 per hour (≈ $61,600/year) in 2026.
Apprentice plumbers earn roughly $23.83 per hour.
These figures reflect a strong market for skilled trades in the region, with overtime and bonuses adding significant supplemental income.
📈 How Experience Impacts Earnings
Experience plays a major role in career progression and salary growth in plumbing.
🪠 Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Typical Responsibilities | Expected Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (0–2 yrs) | Training, entry‑level tasks | Lower end pay (~$23–$27/hr) |
| Journeyperson (2–5 yrs) | Independent work, repairs | Mid pay (~$28–$36/hr) |
| Senior Plumber (5+ yrs) | Complex installs, leadership | Higher pay (~$34+/hr) |
| Specialist / Master | Expert systems, business owners | Highest earning potential – varies widely |
Plumbers with more experience often move into specialized areas or supervisory roles, which can boost income significantly.
🎯 Factors That Influence Plumber Salaries
Several key variables affect how much a plumber can earn in Irving:
📌 Major Salary Influencers
Experience & Skill Level — More years and credentials mean higher pay.
Licensing & Certification — Journeyman and Master levels command better rates.
Type of Work — Commercial plumbing, service calls, and specialty installs pay more.
Employer Type — Union and large companies often offer better benefits.
Overtime & Emergency Work — After‑hours callouts can increase earnings.
Self‑Employment — Independent plumbers can earn more depending on client base.
🎓 Certifications & Education That Boost Earnings
In Texas, plumbers are not required to hold a state license, but certifications significantly boost income.
📘 Valuable Credentials
Journeyman Plumbing License
Master Plumbing License
Specialty certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, gas fitting)
OSHA Safety Training
These credentials help plumbers justify higher wages and compete for advanced commercial roles.
📊 Job Market Trends in Irving & Texas (2026)
The demand for plumbing services remains strong regionally due to construction and infrastructure growth.
📈 Market Highlights
The Dallas‑Fort Worth area — including Irving — continues to expand residential and commercial developments, increasing the need for skilled plumbers.
Statewide, the workforce for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is projected to grow faster than average for all occupations.
Plumbing provides a recession‑resilient career with consistent openings across experience levels.
🌟 Benefits of a Plumbing Career in Irving
Plumbers enjoy both financial and professional advantages:
💡 Key Benefits
Stable year‑round demand — plumbing is essential in both good and slow economic times.
Good compensation — average earnings in the Dallas metro region around $60K+.
Hands‑on work with variety — each job is different.
Growth opportunities — from apprentice to master plumber or business owner.
Flexible work settings — residential, commercial, or industrial projects.
Many employers also offer benefits packages including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions tied to tenure.
🏙️ Salary Comparison: Irving vs. Other Cities (2026)
Plumbing pay varies across Texas urban centers.
| City | Estimated Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Irving, TX | ~$62,000* |
| Dallas, TX | ~$64,000 |
| Plano, TX | ~$64,000 |
| Richardson, TX | ~$64,000 |
| Fort Worth, TX | ~$61,000 (DFW avg) |
| Arlington, TX | ~$56,000 |
*Salary estimates based on reported metro data.
Irving is on par with nearby Dallas‑area cities, offering competitive wages without the high cost pressures of larger metros.
🔍 Job Outlook for Plumbers in Irving & Beyond
The plumbing profession has a positive job outlook in Texas through 2030:
Skilled trade shortages due to retirements open many opportunities.
Ongoing infrastructure investments and population growth sustain demand for plumbing services.
Plumbers often transition into self‑employment or contracting, further increasing lifetime earning potential.
📌 Final Thoughts
Irving, TX offers a solid and growing market for plumbers in 2026. Average salaries align well with the Dallas metro, and experience or certification can unlock even higher earnings. With strong demand, job stability, and opportunities for career advancement, plumbing remains a wise and rewarding career choice in Irving and throughout Texas. Whether you’re entering the trade or advancing your skills, the plumbing profession provides long‑term financial and professional benefits.