Plumbers play a vital role in both residential and commercial settings, tackling everything from routine maintenance to complex system installs. In Glendale, Arizona, the plumbing profession remains a steady and growing career path—with competitive wages, especially for experienced and certified professionals. This article provides a detailed look at plumber salaries in Glendale in 2026, including pay ranges, earning influencers, job market trends, certifications, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Glendale, AZ (2026)
According to recent compensation data, the average annual salary for plumbers in Glendale, AZ is approximately $64,019. Most plumbers in the area earn between $55,389 and $72,714 per year, with an hourly average around $31.
Plumber Salary Breakdown
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $72,714 | $35/hr |
| Average | $64,019 | $31/hr |
| 25th Percentile | $55,389 | $27/hr |
This range reflects plumbers at different experience levels and job types—from apprentices and entry‑level techs to seasoned journeymen.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts plumber earnings in Glendale. As plumbers gain skills and certifications, their compensation typically increases.
Experience Pay Scale
| Experience Level | Typical Role | Estimated Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–2 yrs) | Apprentice / Basic tasks | ~$61,300+ |
| Intermediate (2–4 yrs) | Independent work | ~$61,500+ |
| Senior (5–8 yrs) | Complex installs & troubleshooting | ~$66,500+ |
| Expert (>8 yrs) | Specialist / Lead roles | ~$67,400+ |
With experience, plumbers become more efficient and capable of commanding higher rates or managing large projects.
Factors Influencing Plumber Salaries
Several key variables affect how much plumbers earn in Glendale.
Key Salary Drivers
Experience & Skill Level: More experienced plumbers earn higher wages.
Certifications & Licensing: Journeyman and master plumber licenses boost credibility and pay.
Type of Work: Commercial and industrial plumbing jobs often pay more than residential gig work.
Overtime & On‑Call Availability: Emergency services or overtime work can significantly increase earnings.
Employer Type: Working for municipalities or larger contractors may offer better benefits and pay.
For example, a municipal position with the City of Glendale offers a range of $49,446–$74,169 annually, often with hiring bonuses and benefit packages, which can make these jobs appealing for long‑term stability.
Certifications & Education Impacting Earnings
While formal college education isn’t required for plumbing, certifications and apprenticeships play a major role in pay increases and career mobility.
Valuable Certifications
Arizona Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
Certified plumbers can often demand higher wages and take on specialized tasks like gas line work or medical gas systems—jobs that pay above average.
Typical Training Path
High School Diploma / GED
Vocational Training / Trade School
Apprenticeship (3–5 years)
Journeyman Exam
Ongoing Certifications
Completing apprenticeships and earning certifications shows employers and clients you have proven skills—leading to salary increases and better job prospects.
Job Market Trends (2026)
The plumber job market in Glendale reflects broader trends in Arizona and the U.S. skilled trades economy.
Current Trends
Steady Demand: Plumbing services remain essential and unaffected by most economic cycles.
Construction Growth: New construction in the Phoenix metro area fuels demand for skilled tradespeople.
Retirement Wave: Many experienced plumbers are nearing retirement, opening opportunities for newer professionals.
Technological Tools: New tools and techniques streamline work, increasing productivity and earnings potential.
National and state data indicate that plumbers generally remain in demand with a stable workforce outlook, and Glendale aligns with these trends.
Benefits of Working as a Plumber
Becoming a plumber in Glendale offers several career benefits beyond salary.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance (especially with municipalities or larger firms)
Retirement plans and employer contributions
Paid time off and holiday pay
Job security and recession resistance
Path to business ownership or self‑employment
Skill development and advancement opportunities
Municipal jobs may include additional perks like hiring bonuses and structured raises based on performance and tenure.
Comparing Glendale’s Plumber Salary to Nearby Cities
Understanding how Glendale stacks up against other cities can help professionals gauge competitiveness.
| City | Average Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Glendale, AZ | ~$64,019 |
| Tempe, AZ | ~$64,032 |
| Phoenix, AZ | ~$64,019 |
| Peoria, AZ | ~$63,890 |
| Avondale, AZ | ~$63,844 |
While salaries in nearby Phoenix and Tempe are similar, Glendale holds its own as a competitive market within the metro area.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Glendale
The job outlook for plumbers in Glendale remains strong in 2026 and beyond. As long as basic infrastructure, residential homes, and commercial facilities exist, plumbing services will be needed.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential service sector with low automation risk
Ongoing residential and commercial development
Maintenance and repair needs for aging systems
Growing population demands reliable service providers
For tradespeople who enjoy hands‑on work and consistent demand, plumbing offers excellent long‑term potential.
Is Plumbing a Good Career Choice in Glendale?
Yes—plumbing is a reliable career option for those willing to learn the trade, complete required training, and pursue certifications. It offers:
Competitive wages even at early career stages
Clear growth path through experience and licensing
Job stability and flexibility
Ability to start your own business
With the right investments in training and licensing, plumbers in Glendale can build rewarding careers with steady income and room for growth.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in Glendale, AZ offer a balanced mix of solid wages and growth potential. While not the highest in the nation, local plumbers benefit from consistent demand, a clear progression path, and competitive pay compared to statewide averages. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro considering opportunities in Glendale, the plumbing trade continues to offer value, stability, and promising career prospects.