Plumbing is a stable and rewarding skilled trade — especially in Spokane, Washington. With a growing community, expanding residential and commercial sectors, and consistent maintenance demand, plumbers in Spokane enjoy competitive salaries in 2026.
In this detailed and SEO-friendly article, we’ll explore the average salary range for plumbers in Spokane, how experience affects pay, factors influencing wages, job outlook and trends, benefits of a plumbing career, and how salaries in Spokane compare with other cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Spokane, WA (2026)
In 2026, plumbers in Spokane see a broad range of salaries influenced by experience, certifications, employer type, and specialization.
Typical Salary Range
| Salary Measure | Annual Earnings | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $49,062 – $57,172 | ~ $23 – $27/hr |
| Average Plumber | $57,172 – $75,055 | ~ $27 – $36/hr |
| Higher Experience | Up to $83,226 | ~ $36/hr |
| Journeyman Median | $98,000* (~typical reported) | ~$47/hr* |
| City Contract/Union Jobs | ~$73,277* | Varies |
*Figures from specific employer or profession-level reports (such as journeyman). Actual totals vary by data source.
On average, Spokane plumbers earn around $66,000 per year — with most salaries falling between approximately $57,000 and $75,000 annually.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a significant role in plumber earnings. As plumbers gain skills, licenses, and industry reputation, their pay increases.
Apprentice / Beginner Plumbers
Under 2 years of experience
Often working under supervision
Focused on basic installations and assisting
Average salary ~ $46,900/year ($23/hr)
Mid-Level Plumbers
2–5 years of hands-on work
Independently handle routine jobs
Often involved in residential and light commercial work
Salaries typically rise progressively with experience
Journeyman Plumbers
Fully licensed and experienced
Typical median earnings around ~$98,000/year reported by surveyed workers
Can earn up to $120,000+ depending on employer, overtime, and specialization
Senior / Specialized Plumbers
Extensive experience (8+ years)
Often handle complex tasks, supervision, or business ownership
Top-tier salaries exceed standard scales, especially with certifications and commercial contracts
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several elements affect how much a plumber earns in Spokane:
1. Experience and Skill Level
More experience often translates into higher pay — journeymen typically earn significantly more than apprentices.
2. Licensing and Certifications
Journeyman plumber license
Master plumber
Backflow prevention or gas fitting certificates
Licensed plumbers can command higher wages and better job opportunities.
3. Type of Work
Residential vs. commercial
Emergency service calls
Contract and union work
Commercial and emergency services typically offer better pay.
4. Employer Size and Benefits
Larger companies or public agency roles may offer steady pay, benefits, and retirement packages.
5. Market Demand
High demand leads to competitive pay — plumbers are essential tradespeople with consistent work.
Education and Certifications That Boost Salary
Plumbing doesn’t require a college degree, but specific education and certifications greatly improve earning potential.
Key Certifications
Journeyman Plumber License — often required for independent work
Master Plumber Certification — higher authority and wages
Specialization Certifications — backflow prevention, gas systems, medical gas, etc.
Typical Pathway
High school diploma or equivalent
Entry-level training or community college courses
Apprenticeship (often 4–5 years)
Licensing exam and journeyman status
Master plumber certification for top-tier earnings
Certified plumbers tend to earn 15–30% more than uncertified peers.
Job Market Trends in Spokane (2026)
The job outlook for plumbers in Spokane is strong and relatively stable.
Current Trends
Aging local water infrastructure requires regular updates and repairs
Residential construction continues growth
Commercial facilities demand consistent maintenance
Plumbing jobs are considered essential and not easily automated
Overall, expect steady demand with regular job openings for all experience levels.
Benefits of Working as a Plumber in Spokane
Plumbing offers more than just competitive pay. Common benefits include:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement and pension plans (especially in union or government jobs)
Overtime pay and bonuses
Job security in economic downturns
Opportunities for business ownership
Hands-on, varied work that keeps skills in demand
Many plumbers also enjoy flexible work schedules and the satisfaction of solving real-world problems.
Spokane vs. Other Cities
Plumber salaries vary widely across cities due to cost of living, demand, and local economies.
| City | Approx. Avg. Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Spokane, WA | ~$66,000 – $98,000+ |
| Seattle, WA | Typically higher than Spokane |
| Bellevue, WA | Slightly higher due to cost of living |
| Kennewick-Pasco-Richland, WA | Generally competitive with Spokane |
While Spokane’s pay may be lower than large metro areas like Seattle or Bellevue, it remains competitive relative to local cost of living and job availability.
Salary Benefits Compared to Washington State Average
Plumbers in Washington generally earn around $70,000 per year on average — meaning many Spokane plumbers are near or slightly above the state median, with potential for higher earnings in specialized roles.
Job Outlook: Why Plumbing Is a Smart Career in Spokane
Plumbing offers excellent long-term prospects:
Stable demand even during economic recessions
Little risk of automation
Wide range of job settings (residential, commercial, municipal)
Continuous learning and specialization opportunities
For those who enjoy hands-on work and steady career growth, plumbing remains a solid choice in the Spokane area.
Final Takeaways
Plumbing in Spokane, WA in 2026 offers:
Strong earning potential with room for growth
Clear pay progression with experience and certification
High demand and job security in essential services
Competitive benefits and career stability
If you’re considering a skilled trade that pays well without requiring a traditional college degree, plumbing in Spokane is a career path worth exploring — with both short-term earnings and long-term rewards within reach.