Plumbing remains a stable and rewarding trade across the United States, and Chicago, Illinois offers competitive wages, strong demand, and excellent career potential. In 2026, plumbers in Chicago continue to benefit from consistent construction activity, aging building systems, and increased demand for skilled tradespeople.
This comprehensive guide explores the average plumber salary in Chicago, how earnings vary by experience, the factors that influence pay, job market trends, benefits, required certifications, and comparisons with other major U.S. cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Chicago, IL (2026)
Plumbers in Chicago typically earn salaries above the national average due to a combination of union presence, commercial and residential development, and specialized service needs.
Estimated Salary Range
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Plumber | $45,000 – $58,000 | $22 – $28 |
| Mid-Level Plumber | $60,000 – $78,000 | $29 – $38 |
| Experienced Plumber | $80,000 – $98,000 | $39 – $47 |
| Master / Specialized | $100,000 – $120,000+ | $48 – $58+ |
Average plumber salary in Chicago (2026):
👉 Around $75,000 – $85,000 per year
Salary Breakdown by Experience
Experience plays a significant role in how much a plumber earns in Chicago. The following breakdown illustrates how salaries typically progress over time.
Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Often apprentices or newly licensed technicians
Learn on-the-job skills under supervision
Focus on basic installations and repairs
Limited overtime but gaining experience
Typical salary: $45,000 – $58,000
Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most residential and some commercial jobs
Troubleshoot complex issues
Begin to specialize in areas such as pipefitting
More opportunities for overtime pay
Typical salary: $60,000 – $78,000
Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Take lead on complex projects
Perform commercial installations and system upgrades
Often mentor apprentices
Reliable demand for services increases earnings
Typical salary: $80,000 – $98,000
Master Plumbers & Specialized Technicians
Highest level of expertise
Responsible for project planning and supervision
May own businesses or work on specialized contracts
Frequently handle emergency service calls
Typical salary: $100,000 – $120,000+
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several elements directly impact a plumber’s ability to earn in Chicago:
Primary Salary Influencers
Experience and seniority
Union membership vs. non-union
Type of plumbing work (residential vs. commercial)
Overtime and emergency service availability
Location within metropolitan Chicago
Specialized skills and certifications
Plumbers who work nights, weekends, or offer emergency services often earn significantly more than standard hourly workers.
Certifications and Education That Affect Salary
In the plumbing industry, certifications and proper training greatly influence earning potential. While a college degree isn’t required, certain credentials help plumbers qualify for higher pay.
Valuable Certifications
Illinois Journeyman Plumber License
Illinois Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Piping Certification
OSHA Safety Training Certification
Training Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship programs (typically 4–5 years)
Pass state licensing exams
Ongoing continuing education
Plumbers with advanced certifications or specialized training typically earn 10–25% more than unlicensed or basic-certified plumbers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Chicago (2026)
The plumbing job market in Chicago has remained strong through 2026 due to several structural and economic factors:
What’s Driving Demand
Aging infrastructure needing repair and replacement
Continuous residential renovation activity
New commercial constructions throughout the metro area
Increased demand for eco-friendly and water-efficient systems
Retirements creating openings in the skilled workforce
Chicago consistently posts a large number of job openings for plumbers, making it a highly secure field.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Chicago
Beyond competitive salaries, plumbers can enjoy numerous professional and financial advantages.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (especially for union workers)
Paid vacation and overtime pay
Job stability in economic downturns
Opportunities to start a private business
Flexible work scheduling
Union membership, while not required, often results in superior benefit packages and wage boosts.
Salary Comparison: Chicago vs Other Cities (2026)
To put Chicago plumber wages into perspective, here’s how the city compares with other major U.S. markets:
| City | Avg. Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| New York, NY | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| Houston, TX | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| Denver, CO | $72,000 – $82,000 |
Chicago’s plumber salary sits comfortably above the national median, though somewhat below the highest-paying markets like Los Angeles and New York.
Cost of Living and Salary Value in Chicago
While Chicago’s cost of living is higher than average, plumber salaries are balanced enough to provide a good quality of life.
Income vs. Expenses
Housing costs are moderate compared to Los Angeles or New York
Plumbers often earn enough to comfortably cover living expenses
Union wages help retain purchasing power
Many plumbers choose to live in surrounding suburbs for lower housing costs
Experienced plumbers and specialists, especially those with their own businesses, can enjoy strong financial stability.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Chicago
The future remains bright for plumbers in the Chicago area.
Reasons for Growth
Continued investment in infrastructure
High demand from residential and commercial sectors
Low risk of automation
Expected openings due to retirements in the trade
Experts project stable or slightly increasing demand for plumbers through the next decade and beyond.
Is Plumbing a Good Career Choice in Chicago in 2026?
Absolutely. Plumbing offers a practical, well-paid, and secure career path — especially for individuals who enjoy hands-on work and solving problems.
Key Advantages
Competitive wages without college debt
High demand and job security
Potential for owning a business
Opportunities for specialization
Strong union representation
For those willing to complete apprenticeships and pursue licensing, plumbing in Chicago remains a top trade profession in 2026.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing in Chicago offers solid wages, clear career progression, and long-term job security. With the average salary trending upward and demand remaining robust, skilled plumbers will continue to find opportunities for advancement. Whether you’re just entering the trade or advancing toward master-level status, Chicago presents rewarding prospects in 2026 and beyond.