As skilled trades continue to offer strong career stability, plumbing stands out as one of the most reliable professions in the construction and maintenance sectors. In Chesapeake, Virginia—part of the Norfolk-Virginia Beach metropolitan area—plumbers enjoy competitive salaries, consistent demand, and a clear career path. This detailed guide explores the plumber salary in Chesapeake, VA in 2026, examines the factors that influence pay, salary by experience level, certifications that impact earnings, job outlook, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Chesapeake, VA (2026)
Plumber salaries vary across experience levels and specialties, but Chesapeake offers solid average compensation due to its growing housing market and thriving commercial construction.
Salary Range Overview
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $42,000 – $55,000 | $20 – $26 |
| Mid-Level | $56,000 – $70,000 | $27 – $34 |
| Experienced | $72,000 – $88,000 | $35 – $42 |
| Master / Specialist | $90,000 – $110,000+ | $43 – $53+ |
Typical average plumber salary in Chesapeake (2026):
👉 Approximately $65,000 – $75,000 per year
Compared with national averages, plumbers in Chesapeake earn a comfortable wage while benefiting from a lower cost of living than many large urban centers.
Salary by Experience
Experience significantly impacts earnings potential in the plumbing industry. Here’s how salary typically scales in Chesapeake:
Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Apprentices or newly licensed plumbers
Perform basic installations and repairs
Usually earn the lowest tier but gain foundational experience
Estimated salary: $42,000 – $55,000 annually
Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Work independently on most residential and commercial tasks
Handle more complex installations
May supervise apprentices
Estimated salary: $56,000 – $70,000 annually
Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Manage major commercial and industrial plumbing projects
Offer diagnostic expertise and complex troubleshooting
Higher hourly rates and more frequent overtime opportunities
Estimated salary: $72,000 – $88,000 annually
Master Plumbers & Specialists
Highly skilled with extensive training
Hold advanced certifications
May operate their own businesses or manage crews
Estimated salary: $90,000 – $110,000+ annually
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several key elements affect how much plumbers earn in Chesapeake:
Licensing and Certifications
Journeyman vs. Master plumber licenses
Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, gas piping)
Additional certifications typically increase hourly rates by 10–30%
Union vs. Non-Union
Union plumbers may receive higher wages and more comprehensive benefits but may have stricter work rules.
Type of Work
Residential: steady demand and frequent emergency calls
Commercial: higher pay rates and larger-scale projects
Industrial: highest complexity and pay opportunities
Overtime & Emergency Work
Evenings, nights, weekends, and emergency calls often pay a premium rate.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
Formal education beyond a high school diploma isn’t mandatory for plumbing, but certain certifications significantly boost earnings.
Key Certifications
Journeyman Plumber License (VA)
Master Plumber License (VA)
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
Safety Certifications (OSHA, etc.)
Apprenticeship programs combined with state licensing exams equip plumbers with the skills needed to advance into higher-paying roles.
Job Market Trends in Chesapeake
In 2026, the job market for plumbers in Chesapeake remains strong, driven by several economic and demographic trends:
Steady Construction Growth
Residential developments and renovations
Commercial building expansion
Infrastructure improvements
Aging Infrastructure
Older homes and commercial buildings increase the need for repair and replacement services, creating year-round demand for experienced plumbers.
Retirements and Labor Shortages
Many skilled plumbers are nearing retirement age, which opens opportunities for new technicians entering the field.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Chesapeake
Plumbing offers various advantages, both financially and professionally. Below are key benefits:
Financial Security
Competitive pay
Overtime and premium rates
Potential for business ownership
Career Growth
Clear pathway from apprentice to master plumber
Earning potential increases significantly with experience and certification
Job Stability
Plumbing repairs and installations are essential services that remain in demand even during economic downturns.
Retirement and Health Benefits
Union positions and larger companies often offer healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Chesapeake vs Nearby Cities
To give context on how Chesapeake stacks up, here’s a comparison with neighboring areas:
| City | Average Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Chesapeake, VA | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Norfolk, VA | $63,000 – $73,000 |
| Virginia Beach, VA | $67,000 – $77,000 |
| Richmond, VA | $62,000 – $72,000 |
| Charlotte, NC | $58,000 – $68,000 |
Chesapeake and nearby Virginia Beach consistently offer some of the higher plumber salaries in the region, partly due to coastal growth and strong construction pipelines.
Cost of Living vs Salary
Chesapeake offers a lower cost of living than larger metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., or New York, which helps plumbers keep more of their earnings. While salaries may be slightly lower than high-cost cities, the purchasing power in Chesapeake often balances out.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Chesapeake (2026 and Beyond)
The job outlook remains positive for plumbers in Chesapeake and the broader Hampton Roads area.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trades with steady work demand
Infrastructure upgrades and aging homes
Population growth
Employment opportunities are expected to remain stable, with openings annually due to retirement and construction growth.
Is Plumbing a Good Career Choice in Chesapeake?
Yes! Plumbing is a high-demand, well-paying career with strong long-term stability. With the right education, certifications, and experience, plumbers in Chesapeake can expect:
Competitive wages
Benefits and job security
Opportunities for specialization and advancement
Final Takeaway
The plumber salary in Chesapeake, VA in 2026 reflects a healthy and growing trade sector. With salaries that rise with experience, strong job prospects, and diverse opportunities in residential, commercial, and specialized plumbing, this profession offers a solid career path. Whether you’re starting as an apprentice or advancing to master plumber, Chesapeake’s market provides valuable opportunities and lasting demand for skilled tradespeople.