Plumbers play a vital role in maintaining residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems. In Winston‑Salem, NC, demand for skilled plumbers continues to support steady wages and career growth. This comprehensive 800+ word guide explores plumber salary in Winston‑Salem, NC (2026), including average earnings, experience breakdowns, factors influencing pay, job market trends, benefits, and how the local salary compares to neighboring cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Winston‑Salem, NC (2026)
Plumbers in Winston‑Salem earn competitive wages for the skilled trade. While numbers can vary depending on sources and experience, local data gives us a clear picture of salary ranges.
Salary Overview
| Salary Measure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | ~$60,312 per year |
| Typical Range | $44,779 – $75,961 per year |
| Average Hourly Wage | ~$29/hour |
| Reported Pay via Other Sources | ~$23.44/hour (~$49,000/year) |
Local estimates can vary due to methodology, but most data points converge on an average annual salary of around $60,000 in 2026 — a solid earning for a skilled trade in this region.
Plumber Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts a plumber’s pay in Winston‑Salem. As plumbers gain skills and certifications, their earning potential increases.
Experience-Based Average Salary
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level (0–1 yr) | ~$57,758 |
| Early Career (<2 yrs) | ~$58,003 |
| Mid Career (2–4 yrs) | ~$60,447 |
| Senior (5–8 yrs) | ~$62,666 |
| Experienced (>8 yrs) | ~$63,554 |
Quick Summary:
Entry and early career plumbers typically earn in the high $50,000s.
Mid‑level and senior plumbers can push into the low $60,000s or more.
Highly experienced plumbers or those with specialization may earn above these averages.
This trend shows a steady increase as plumbers gain hands‑on expertise, leadership responsibility, and technical skills.
Key Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several elements influence how much a plumber makes in Winston‑Salem:
1. Experience & Skill Level
More experienced plumbers command higher rates because they can handle complex installations, diagnostics, and system design.
2. Licensing & Certifications
Certifications such as Journeyman License or Master Plumber License can significantly increase earning potential. Specialists in areas like gas lines or backflow prevention often earn more.
3. Union vs. Non‑Union Employment
Union plumbers often enjoy higher wages and better benefits compared to non‑union workers.
4. Type of Work
Commercial plumbing, emergency repairs, and specialized systems typically pay more than basic residential tasks.
5. Self‑Employment
Plumbers who run their own business set their own rates and can earn significantly more — especially with steady contracts and repeat clients.
Certifications & Education That Impact Salary
Plumbing is a trade where formal degrees are not required, but training and credentials matter.
Common Plumbing Credentials
High School Diploma or GED
Apprenticeship Completion
NC Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Specialty Certifications (e.g., Backflow Prevention, Medical Gas)
Certification boosts credibility and often translates to higher pay — particularly in commercial and industrial sectors.
Job Market Trends (2026 & Beyond)
The plumbing job market in Winston‑Salem aligns with broader trends affecting skilled trades across the U.S.
Current Trends
Steady demand due to aging infrastructure requiring maintenance and upgrades.
Growth in residential renovation and new construction increases plumber needs.
Retirements of older workers create openings for apprentices and journeymen.
Local employers list numerous plumbing positions across residential, commercial, and contract roles.
These trends point toward strong and stable job prospects for plumbers in the Winston‑Salem area.
Benefits of Working as a Plumber in Winston‑Salem
Plumbing offers more than just competitive wages.
Common Benefits
Job stability in both good and slow economic conditions.
Overtime opportunities increase take‑home pay.
Employer benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans (especially in union positions).
Self‑employment potential lets you build your own client base.
In short, plumbing is a resilient career with diverse opportunities for growth and increased earnings.
Comparing Winston‑Salem to Nearby Cities
How does Winston‑Salem stack up against nearby NC cities?
| City | Estimated Average Plumber Salary |
|---|---|
| Winston‑Salem | ~$60,312/year |
| Durham, NC | ~$63,177/year |
| Charlotte, NC | ~$62,639/year |
| Chapel Hill, NC | ~$62,373/year |
| High Point, NC | ~$60,908/year |
| Greensboro, NC | ~$60,325/year |
Plumbers in Durham, Charlotte, and Chapel Hill generally earn slightly more, likely reflecting differences in cost of living and local demand. However, Winston‑Salem remains competitive within the region.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Winston‑Salem
Plumbing is widely considered a future‑proof career because it is essential and difficult to automate. As long as buildings need water, waste systems, and repair service, plumbers will be needed.
Outlook Highlights
Skilled trades face continued demand as older workers retire.
Local construction and retrofit projects fuel ongoing hiring.
Certification and specialization improve job prospects.
This outlook makes plumbing a solid choice for those entering the workforce or seeking a stable career change.
Final Thoughts
In Winston‑Salem, NC, the plumber salary in 2026 remains robust for this essential trade. With an average salary around $60,000+, steady demand, and opportunities for advancement with experience and certification, plumbing offers strong job security and long‑term growth potential. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to a master plumber, professionals in this field can expect rewarding work and competitive compensation.
If you’re exploring a trade career that combines skill, stability, and upward mobility, plumbing in Winston‑Salem deserves serious consideration.