Plumbing is a reliable and in-demand skilled trade across Canada, and Markham, Ontario is no exception. With steady construction, renovations, and essential services needed across residential and commercial sectors, plumbers enjoy competitive wages and strong employment prospects. In this detailed 2026 salary guide, we’ll explore average pay in Markham, how experience affects earnings, job market trends, benefits, and how Markham compares to other nearby cities. Whether you’re considering plumbing as a career or looking to negotiate your salary, this article gives you actionable insights.
Average Plumber Salary in Markham, ON (2026)
Plumber compensation in Markham varies based on experience, role, and employer. According to recent local wage data:
Hourly & Annual Averages
| Role / Level | Rate (approx) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | ~$22.98/hr | Entry-level, learning on the job |
| Plumber (general) | ~$32.31/hr | Average base rate reported in Markham |
| Journeyperson Plumber | ~$72,779/yr | Based on reported annual average |
| Senior Plumber | ~$39.84/hr | Higher rate indicating advanced skill level |
| Licensed Plumber Range | $45,760 – $118,560/yr | Broader licensed plumber pay range |
On average, licensed plumbers in Markham earn roughly $37+ per hour, with annual income frequently ranging from about $45,000 up to $118,000 depending on skills and experience.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in plumber pay, and this holds true in Markham and across Ontario more broadly.
1. Apprentice / Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Learn through hands-on training and apprenticeship programs
Earn lower hourly wages but build essential skills
Often see wage increases each year of apprenticeship
Typical range: ~$22–$27/hr
2. Early Career Plumber (2–5 Years)
Handles basic repairs, installs fixtures independently
Journeyperson certification may be in progress or completed
Estimated earnings: ~$30–$40/hr
3. Experienced / Senior Plumber (5–10+ Years)
Handles complex installs, commercial systems, and oversight
May supervise apprentices and lead jobsites
Typical rate: ~$38–$45+/hr
4. Licensed Journeyperson / Red Seal (Master Level)
Fully certified plumbers with Red Seal endorsement or equivalent
May subcontract or own a business
Highest pay tier in the trade
Typical range: $80,000 – $118,000+ annually
Key Factors That Influence Earnings
Several variables influence how much plumbers make in Markham:
Licensing & Certifications
Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) is essential in Ontario for independent work
Red Seal Endorsement enables work across Canada and often attracts higher pay
Specialized credentials (e.g., gas fitting) further boost rates
Job Type & Sector
Residential service work vs. commercial/industrial contracts
Unionized construction jobs may offer higher base wages and benefits
Emergency response work often pays premium overtime
Employer & Location
Some sectors offer better compensation:
Large contracting firms
Municipal or industrial maintenance crews
Managed service programs with recurring client contracts
Typically, metropolitan areas like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) show higher pay relative to smaller Ontario cities.
Job Market Trends (2026)
The plumbing trade in Markham and the wider Ontario region shows solid job demand heading into 2026.
Trends to Watch
Population growth and housing projects in Markham and the GTA driving new construction
Older infrastructure requiring maintenance and upgrades
Increased demand for eco-efficient plumbing systems (low-flow, sustainable hookups)
Businesses expanding maintenance teams for commercial properties
Across Ontario, a median plumber salary near $71,100 indicates healthy provincial demand for skilled plumbers.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Markham
Plumbing isn’t just about salary — there are multiple professional and personal benefits:
Financial & Job Perks
Competitive wages with overtime opportunities
Trade union benefits including pensions, health, and vacation plans
Strong job security even during economic swings
Ability to start your own business
Career progression to supervisory or contract roles
Work Satisfaction
High demand services ensure continuous work
Variety of job types (residential, commercial, industrial)
Visible impact — fix critical systems people rely on every day
Comparing Markham to Nearby Cities
Plumber pay can vary substantially within the Greater Toronto Area and other Ontario cities.
| City | Average Hourly Wage (approx) |
|---|---|
| Markham | ~$32.31/hr (general) |
| Greater Toronto Area | ~$40+/hr |
| Vaughan | ~$38+/hr |
| Ottawa | ~$39.5/hr |
| Brampton | ~$37/hr |
| Hamilton | ~$36–$37/hr |
This comparison shows that while Markham is competitive, larger urban centres like Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area often offer higher average wages and more opportunities for specialized plumbing work.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Markham
The long-term career outlook for plumbers remains positive:
Demand Indicators
Ongoing residential and commercial construction
Aging infrastructure in need of upgrades
Skilled trades shortages across Ontario
These trends point toward steady job availability and potential wage growth as demand outpaces available licensed workers.
How Education & Certifications Impact Your Salary
Required Training
High school diploma or GED often the minimum requirement
Entry into plumbing apprenticeship programs (typically 4–5 years)
Valuable Credentials
Certificate of Qualification (Journeyperson)
Red Seal endorsement for interprovincial mobility
Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention)
Plumbers with certifications typically earn significantly more than those without them, particularly in complex commercial or industrial environments.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a plumber in Markham, ON in 2026 offers a competitive salary, strong job security, and career advancement opportunities. With wages influenced by experience, certifications, and job type, plumbers can expect to earn considerably more as skills advance. Whether you’re just starting or considering how to increase your income, this trade continues to be a smart and resilient career choice in the Ontario job market.