Plumbing remains one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the UK, and Manchester is a key city for career growth in this sector. With ongoing construction, home renovations, and commercial projects, plumbers in Manchester enjoy competitive salaries and strong job security.
This guide provides a detailed overview of plumber salaries in Manchester in 2026, including average pay, salary by experience, factors affecting earnings, job trends, benefits, and how Manchester compares to other UK cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Manchester (2026)
Plumbers in Manchester earn higher-than-average wages compared to other UK regions, thanks to urban demand and commercial activity.
Estimated Salary Range
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | £22,000 – £28,000 | £11 – £14 |
| Mid-level | £29,000 – £38,000 | £14 – £19 |
| Experienced | £39,000 – £50,000 | £19 – £25 |
| Master / Specialist | £52,000 – £65,000+ | £25 – £33+ |
Average plumber salary in Manchester (2026):
👉 Around £35,000 – £40,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly influences earnings in Manchester.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Apprentices or newly qualified plumbers
Work under supervision
Handle basic domestic repairs and installations
Average pay: £22,000 – £28,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently manage residential and light commercial jobs
More technical responsibilities and troubleshooting
Opportunity to earn overtime
Average pay: £29,000 – £38,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Handle larger commercial projects and advanced installations
Often supervise junior plumbers
Eligible for performance bonuses
Average pay: £39,000 – £50,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Specialized areas like gas systems, high-rise plumbing, or medical installations
May own a plumbing business or contract for commercial clients
High demand for emergency services
Average pay: £52,000 – £65,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Manchester
Plumber salaries vary depending on multiple factors:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of qualification (NVQ, Gas Safe, Master Plumber status)
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union membership
Overtime and emergency call-outs
Business ownership or freelance work
Specialized certifications (gas, heating, or medical plumbing)
Plumbers who take on emergency or 24/7 service roles often earn substantially more.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While a degree is not required, formal qualifications are essential for higher pay and career progression.
High-Value Certifications
NVQ Level 2 & Level 3 in Plumbing
Gas Safe Registration
Water Regulations Certification
Renewable energy plumbing courses (solar, heat pumps)
Education Path
High school or equivalent
Apprenticeship (2–4 years)
Licenses and certifications (e.g., Gas Safe)
Certified and highly skilled plumbers can earn 20–30% more than uncertified peers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Manchester (2026)
Manchester’s plumbing market continues to grow, driven by construction, infrastructure, and population growth.
Current Trends
Increasing demand for home renovations and extensions
New commercial and residential developments
Replacement of ageing water and heating systems
Growing interest in eco-friendly plumbing solutions
Shortages of skilled tradespeople driving wages upward
The city consistently reports high demand for qualified plumbers, ensuring job stability.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Manchester
Besides competitive salaries, plumbers enjoy numerous benefits:
Common Benefits
Paid overtime and emergency call rates
Pension and health benefits (for employed plumbers)
Job security in both residential and commercial sectors
Opportunities for business ownership
Continuous career development through certifications
Unionized plumbers in Manchester often receive additional perks such as pension top-ups and professional training support.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Manchester vs Other UK Cities (2026)
Plumbers in Manchester earn well, though salaries vary across UK cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Manchester | £35,000 – £40,000 |
| London | £40,000 – £50,000 |
| Birmingham | £33,000 – £38,000 |
| Liverpool | £30,000 – £36,000 |
| Edinburgh | £34,000 – £40,000 |
| Bristol | £36,000 – £42,000 |
While London offers higher salaries, Manchester provides a lower cost of living, balancing income and expenses.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Manchester
The long-term outlook for plumbers in Manchester is very positive.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Plumbing is an essential, recession-resistant trade
Constant demand for repairs, upgrades, and installations
Population growth and urban development
Shortage of qualified plumbers drives wages higher
Plumbing remains a stable and future-proof career choice.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Manchester in 2026?
Yes. Plumbing offers:
Competitive salaries and overtime potential
Job security even in economic downturns
Opportunities for self-employment or business ownership
Long-term career growth with certifications and specialization
With apprenticeships, proper licensing, and ongoing training, Manchester provides excellent career opportunities for plumbers.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in Manchester reflect the city’s thriving construction sector and high demand for skilled trades. Average salaries range from £22,000 for entry-level apprentices to over £65,000 for master plumbers, with numerous benefits and career growth opportunities. For anyone considering a career in plumbing, Manchester offers a combination of strong wages, job security, and long-term prospects.