The plumbing profession continues to be a reliable and well‑paid trade in the United States, and Norfolk, Virginia is no exception. In 2026, plumbers in Norfolk enjoy solid wages influenced by experience, certification, specialization, and local demand for skilled labor. This SEO‑friendly article breaks down the average salary ranges, factors that influence earnings, salary by experience level, job market trends, benefits of the profession, job outlook, and certifications that boost pay. We’ll also compare plumber salaries in Norfolk with nearby cities for valuable context.
Understanding Plumber Salaries in Norfolk, VA (2026)
In Norfolk, VA, the average plumber salary is shaped by local labor demand, cost of living, and industry growth. According to recent compensation data:
Average annual plumber salary: around $60,792 per year.
Typical salary range: most plumbers earn between $52,597 and $69,048 per year.
Hourly wage equivalent: approximately $29 per hour on average.
This places Norfolk slightly below some larger metropolitan markets but still within a competitive bracket for skilled trades in the region.
Plumber Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts a plumber’s compensation. Here’s how wages typically progress in Norfolk:
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Apprentice / Entry‑Level | $40,000 – $45,000+ |
| Early Career (0–2 yrs) | $52,000 – $55,000 range |
| Mid‑Level (2–5 yrs) | $58,000 – $62,000 |
| Senior / Skilled | $63,000 – $70,000+ |
| Top Earners / Specialists | $70,000+ (varies by skill & certification) |
Apprentice & Entry Plumbers
Apprentices generally earn the lowest wages as they build foundational skills. In Norfolk, apprentices may start near $43,200 annually but this increases with experience and hands‑on training.
Mid‑Level Plumbers
Plumbers with a few years of experience often see wages rise meaningfully. By demonstrating reliability and technical knowledge, pay typically climbs into the $58,000–$62,000 area.
Senior & Specialist Plumbers
Experienced plumbers with advanced skills or specialized training can earn upwards of $70,000+ annually depending on job complexity, employer, and certifications.
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several key variables affect how much plumbers make in Norfolk:
🔹 Experience & Skill Level
More years in the field usually translate to higher pay. Employers value experienced plumbers for complex projects and supervisory roles.
🔹 Certifications & Licensing
Holding recognized certifications or a state plumbing license can significantly boost earnings, especially for specialized work like medical gas piping or backflow prevention.
🔹 Union vs Non‑Union Positions
Union plumbers often receive better wages and benefits, including pension plans and health coverage, compared to non‑union roles.
🔹 Type of Employment
Plumbers working for municipal services, large construction firms, or commercial accounts tend to be higher paid than those exclusively on small residential jobs.
🔹 Overtime & Emergency Calls
Plumbers willing to work nights, weekends, or emergency calls can increase annual income through overtime pay.
Job Market Trends in Norfolk (2026)
The demand for plumbers remains robust in Norfolk and surrounding Hampton Roads areas due to:
Continued residential construction and renovation projects.
Growth in commercial development.
Infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.
A stable pipeline of retirements creating openings.
These trends suggest strong job security and ongoing opportunities for both experienced plumbers and new apprentices.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Norfolk
Plumbing offers several advantages beyond salary:
💡 Key Benefits
High job stability: plumbing is an essential service with consistent demand.
Skill development: careers improve with experience and formal training.
Potential for business ownership: skilled plumbers can start their own contracting businesses.
Good benefits packages: union and municipal positions often include insurance and retirement plans.
Career advancement: paths to supervisory or specialist roles.
These factors contribute to plumbing being a rewarding career choice for many.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While formal college degrees aren’t typical for plumbers, certain certifications boost earning potential:
Valuable Credentials
State Licensed Journeyman Plumber
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Tester/Installer
Medical Gas Piping Certification
OSHA Safety Training
Continuing education in green plumbing technologies
Investing in certifications often leads to higher hourly rates and preference from employers for advanced work.
Salary Comparison: Norfolk vs Nearby Cities (2026)
Here’s how plumber salaries in Norfolk compare with nearby Virginia markets:
| City | Average Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Norfolk, VA | ~$60,792/year |
| Virginia Beach, VA | ~$61,764/year |
| Newport News, VA | ~$60,928/year |
| Chesapeake, VA | ~$60,714/year |
| Hampton, VA | ~$60,928/year |
Overall, Norfolk’s plumber compensation is competitive with other cities in southeastern Virginia, though slightly below some larger metro averages.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Norfolk
The future looks bright for plumbers in Norfolk through 2030 and beyond. Skilled trades are expected to remain essential, with demand driven by:
Infrastructure improvements
Aging housing stock needing upgrades
Skilled worker shortages
These factors contribute to a strong job outlook with stable employment prospects.
Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing a Good Career in Norfolk in 2026?
Absolutely. Plumbing offers:
Competitive salary potential
Opportunity for growth through experience
Valuable certifications that increase earnings
Job stability even during economic shifts
For individuals who enjoy hands‑on work, problem solving, and continuous skill development, plumbing in Norfolk, VA is a rewarding and solid career choice for 2026 and beyond.