Plumbing is a crucial trade in Honolulu, Hawaii, where the unique island infrastructure and high cost of living influence wages. In 2026, plumbers in Honolulu continue to enjoy competitive salaries thanks to strong demand from residential, commercial, and tourism-related projects.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at plumber salaries in Honolulu, including pay by experience, factors affecting earnings, job trends, certifications, benefits, and comparisons with other cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Honolulu, HI (2026)
Plumbers in Honolulu earn higher-than-average wages compared to many mainland cities due to the higher cost of living, union representation, and ongoing construction projects.
Estimated Salary Range
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $65,000 | $24 – $31 |
| Mid-level | $70,000 – $90,000 | $34 – $43 |
| Experienced | $95,000 – $120,000 | $46 – $58 |
| Master / Specialized | $125,000 – $155,000+ | $60 – $75+ |
Average plumber salary in Honolulu (2026):
👉 Around $88,000 – $95,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience strongly impacts plumber earnings in Honolulu, as skilled labor is highly valued.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Apprentices or newly licensed plumbers
Work under supervision, focusing on residential repairs
May earn additional income through overtime
Average pay: $50,000–$65,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Handle independent residential and light commercial projects
Troubleshoot complex systems
Eligible for higher hourly rates
Average pay: $70,000–$90,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Lead commercial projects and manage teams
Expert in multiple plumbing systems
Often receive bonuses or profit-sharing
Average pay: $95,000–$120,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Licensed master plumbers with advanced certifications
Work on industrial, medical, or high-rise systems
May own businesses or contract independently
Average pay: $125,000–$155,000+/year
Factors Influencing Plumber Earnings in Honolulu
Several factors determine how much a plumber can earn in Honolulu:
Key Salary Drivers
License type (Journeyman vs. Master)
Union vs. non-union employment
Job type (residential, commercial, industrial)
Specialized skills (backflow, gas, medical piping)
Overtime and emergency service availability
Business ownership
Island-specific factors like shipping costs for supplies and tourism-driven construction projects can also affect pay.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Education and certifications directly enhance earning potential in Honolulu.
High-Value Certifications
Hawaii State Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
Licensing exam for journeyman or master plumber
Certified plumbers can earn 15–30% more than non-certified peers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Honolulu (2026)
The plumbing industry in Honolulu remains robust due to population growth, tourism, and infrastructure needs.
Current Trends
High demand for residential renovations and commercial builds
Maintenance and upgrades for aging island infrastructure
Focus on eco-friendly plumbing solutions
Retirement of veteran plumbers creating labor gaps
Honolulu consistently reports a strong demand for licensed plumbers, ensuring job security.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Honolulu
Plumbing offers more than competitive wages; benefits are a strong part of total compensation.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Union pension and retirement plans
Paid overtime and holiday pay
High demand ensures consistent work
Opportunities for self-employment and business ownership
Union plumbers in Honolulu often have the most comprehensive benefits packages.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Honolulu vs Other Cities (2026)
While Honolulu salaries are high, the cost of living is also elevated. Here’s a comparison with mainland cities:
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Honolulu, HI | $88,000 – $95,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| San Diego, CA | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| New York City, NY | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Houston, TX | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Honolulu offers competitive pay relative to living costs but provides fewer job opportunities compared to mainland metro areas.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Honolulu
Honolulu has one of the highest costs of living in the U.S., which affects net income.
Key Takeaways
Higher wages offset housing and supply costs
Overtime and emergency work help increase income
Many plumbers choose to live outside the urban core
Union wages help maintain financial stability
Plumbers with strong skills and certifications can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle despite high living expenses.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Honolulu
The outlook for plumbers in Honolulu remains very positive.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Plumbing is essential and cannot be automated
Continuous need for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades
Island population growth fuels residential demand
Tourism and commercial developments increase workload
Plumbing is a stable and recession-resistant career in Honolulu.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Honolulu in 2026?
Absolutely. Plumbing offers:
High earning potential without college debt
Strong job security and career growth
Opportunities to start a business
Long-term prospects in both residential and commercial sectors
With apprenticeship programs and licensing, plumbing in Honolulu remains a smart and lucrative career path.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Honolulu, HI reflects the island’s unique living conditions, ongoing infrastructure projects, and labor demand. With average salaries approaching six figures, solid benefits, and strong job security, plumbing continues to be an attractive career choice. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to master plumber status, Honolulu provides excellent opportunities for growth and financial stability in the plumbing industry.