Plumbers play an essential role in keeping homes and businesses functioning smoothly. In Chandler, Arizona, the plumbing trade remains a solid career choice with competitive compensation and strong demand. This guide breaks down the average plumber salary in Chandler for 2026, explores how experience affects pay, factors influencing earnings, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
💵 Average Plumber Salary in Chandler, AZ (2026)
In 2026, plumbers in Chandler can expect competitive pay relative to the Arizona market and earn above the national median for skilled trades. According to recent compensation data:
🔍 Estimated Salary Range
| Salary Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | ~$91,500/year in Chandler, AZ |
| Typical Range | $55,000 – $100,000/year |
| Average Hourly Rate | ~$47.71/hour reported in recent surveys |
This shows that plumbers in Chandler often earn significantly more than the Arizona state average, which hovers around $63,000 per year statewide.
👷 Salary by Experience Level
Experience dramatically impacts a plumber’s earning potential. Here’s how pay typically scales in Chandler:
🧰 Apprentice Plumbers (0–2 years)
Entry-level position while learning trade skills
Paid hourly, often lower than fully licensed plumbers
Typical Pay: ~$22.86/hr (apprentice rate)
🔧 Journeyman Plumbers (2–6 years)
Fully licensed plumbers handling most installations and repairs
Experience allows higher pay and more complex job assignments
Approx. Pay: Commonly $55,000 – $75,000/year
🪠 Experienced / Senior Plumbers (6+ years)
Lead jobs, handle commercial systems, and mentor apprentices
Higher hourly wage and overtime earnings
Typical Pay: ~$75,000 – $100,000/year
📊 Factors Influencing Plumber Earnings
Several key factors shape what plumbers earn in Chandler:
⭐ Licensing & Certifications
Licensed Journeyman status increases credibility and pay.
Master Plumber or specialized certifications (e.g., medical gas, backflow prevention) can boost income significantly.
🏢 Employer Type
Union jobs or large service contractors often pay more than small independent shops.
Commercial projects typically pay higher than residential service calls.
⏱️ Overtime and Emergency Work
On-call and emergency jobs can substantially boost annual wages.
📍 Location within Metro Area
Wages in Chandler are generally higher than some nearby cities because of strong demand from construction and residential growth.
📈 Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Chandler
The plumbing job market in the Chandler and Greater Phoenix area is expected to remain strong in 2026.
🔎 Key Trends
Continued residential and commercial construction growth.
Infrastructure upgrades and maintenance work fueling demand.
Workforce shortages in skilled trades increasing bargaining power for experienced plumbers.
Plumbing is seen as a stable, recession-resistant trade — people always need repairs, installations, and upgrades regardless of economic cycles.
👍 Benefits of Being a Plumber in Chandler
Choosing plumbing as a profession offers not just strong salary potential, but additional perks:
🛠️ Other Benefits
Health, dental, and retirement plans often offered by employers.
Paid vacation, sick leave, and overtime.
Opportunity to start your own business as a contractor.
Job stability in high demand fields.
Hands-on work with problem-solving challenges.
When compared to other blue-collar professions, plumbing provides excellent growth and flexibility.
📖 Education & Certifications That Impact Salary
While a college degree isn’t required, training and credentials are critical.
📘 Typical Pathway
High School Diploma or GED
Apprenticeship Program (4–5 years)
Journeyman License
Optional Certifications (e.g., backflow testing, medical gas installer)
Advanced certifications and union membership can lead to higher pay and broader job opportunities.
🏙️ Salary Comparison: Chandler vs Nearby Cities
How does Chandler stack up against other cities in the region?
| City | Average Plumber Salary |
|---|---|
| Chandler, AZ | ~$91,500/year |
| Tempe, AZ | ~ $64,032/year (state profile) |
| Phoenix, AZ | ~ $64,019/year (state profile) |
| Mesa, AZ | ~ $64,032/year (state profile) |
| Gilbert, AZ | Similar to Chandler metro averages |
Note: Job boards and employer salary data suggest Chandler may trend slightly higher due to local demand and competitive employers.
📊 Job Outlook for Plumbers in Chandler (2026 and Beyond)
The future looks bright for plumbers in Chandler:
📈 Why the Demand Is Strong
Continued suburban growth and new housing developments.
Commercial construction and renovation projects.
Aging pipe infrastructure needing regular upgrades.
Skilled labour shortages increasing opportunities and wages.
With a projected steady need for services and the potential for increased pay, plumbing is a viable long-term career path.
💡 Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumbers in Chandler, AZ enjoy competitive salaries, especially compared to statewide averages. With strong demand, excellent growth prospects, and the ability to earn more through experience and certifications, plumbing remains a high-value trade career. Whether starting as an apprentice or climbing to journeyman and master levels, there’s real earning potential in this field.