The plumbing trade has long been a stable and rewarding career choice, and as we approach 2025, journeyman plumbers continue to see competitive salaries and promising job growth. This article dives deep into the average journeyman plumber salary in 2025, factors affecting earnings, experience-based pay scales, job market trends, and key certifications that can impact your income. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, this guide offers valuable insights to help you plan your career.
What Is a Journeyman Plumber?
A journeyman plumber is a skilled tradesperson who has completed an apprenticeship and obtained a license to work independently in plumbing. They install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The journeyman stage is typically the second step after apprenticeship and before becoming a master plumber.
Average Journeyman Plumber Salary in 2025
-
National Average: Approximately $55,000 to $70,000 per year
-
Hourly Rate: Ranges from $25 to $35 per hour depending on location and experience
-
Top Earners: Experienced journeymen in high-demand regions can make upwards of $80,000+ annually
Salaries vary widely based on geographic location, employer, and specialization.
Factors Influencing Journeyman Plumber Salary
-
Experience Level:
-
Entry-Level (1-3 years): $45,000 – $55,000
-
Mid-Level (4-7 years): $55,000 – $65,000
-
Senior-Level (8+ years): $65,000 – $80,000+
-
-
Location:
Urban centers and states with high construction demand (California, New York, Texas) tend to offer higher wages. -
Certifications and Licenses:
Holding advanced certifications such as Backflow Prevention, Gas Fitting, or Green Plumbing can increase earning potential. -
Union Membership:
Unionized plumbers often receive better pay and benefits than non-union workers. -
Type of Employer:
Plumbers working for government agencies or large companies generally earn more than independent contractors or small businesses.
Salary by Experience
| Experience Level | Average Salary (2025) | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $30,000 – $40,000 | Training & education |
| Journeyman (Entry) | $45,000 – $55,000 | Independent work rights |
| Journeyman (Mid) | $55,000 – $65,000 | Increased responsibilities |
| Journeyman (Senior) | $65,000 – $80,000+ | Leadership roles & specialization |
Job Market Trends and Outlook
-
Growth Rate: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5-7% growth in plumber jobs through 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
-
Demand Drivers: New construction, maintenance, and repairs, along with the rise of green building technologies, fuel demand for skilled plumbers.
-
Technological Impact: Familiarity with modern tools like pipe inspection cameras and computerized diagnostics is becoming valuable.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Journeyman plumbers often enjoy:
-
Health insurance and retirement plans (especially union members)
-
Paid vacation and sick leave
-
Overtime pay opportunities
-
Job stability due to ongoing demand for plumbing services
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
-
State Journeyman License: Mandatory for legal work and higher pay.
-
Specialized Certifications: Backflow prevention, gas piping, medical gas installation, and green plumbing.
-
Continued Education: Trade schools and vocational training can increase skill sets and salary.
How to Increase Your Journeyman Plumber Salary
-
Gain additional certifications
-
Pursue union membership
-
Develop specialties in high-demand plumbing sectors
-
Take on supervisory or lead roles
-
Consider relocating to areas with higher wage scales
Conclusion
The journeyman plumber salary in 2025 reflects a healthy balance between skill, experience, and geographic factors. With steady job growth and multiple pathways to increase earnings, plumbing remains a viable and lucrative trade career. Investing in certifications and staying updated with industry trends can significantly enhance your income and job satisfaction in this dynamic field.
Leave a Reply