Plumbing is a skilled trade with stable demand across the UK, and Kingston upon Hull offers solid earning potential for qualified professionals in 2026. Whether you’re considering a career as a plumber, planning to relocate, or just curious about wages in Hull, this detailed guide breaks down average salaries, factors influencing pay, job market trends, experience levels, education and certifications, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities to give you a full picture of being a plumber in Hull.
🧰 Average Plumber Salary in Kingston upon Hull (2026)
In 2026, plumbers working in Hull earn competitive salaries when compared to the broader regional figures, although average pay in Hull tends to be slightly below the UK national average.
💷 Salary Overview
| Job Type | Typical Salary (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Apprentice Plumber | ~£9,600* |
| Journeyperson Plumber | ~£34,000* |
| Senior Plumber | ~£36,000* |
| Average Plumber (Hull) | £32,200 – £33,400 |
| Higher Estimates (job ads) | £30,000 – £46,000 |
*Based on reported job postings and aggregated data.
Average salary in Hull: around £32,200–£33,400 per year.
Hourly rates for plumbers in Hull are around £19.30 per hour on average.
Job postings show advertised salaries ranging from £30,000 up to £46,000+ for experienced plumbers, depending on role and employer.
Compared to the UK national average plumber salary, which typically sits around £33,000+, Hull’s pay is in a similar range but slightly lower on average due to regional wage differences.
📊 Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several key elements determine how much a plumber can earn in Hull:
🎓 Qualifications & Certifications
NVQ Level 2 & Level 3 in plumbing are common requirements.
Gas Safe Registration (essential for gas work) can substantially boost earnings.
Additional certifications (e.g., heating systems, renewable tech) also increase pay potential.
Specialised skills often allow plumbers to command higher rates and more job opportunities.
🛠️ Experience
Experience remains one of the strongest influences on salary. More experienced plumbers with advanced skills are likely to earn more than newly qualified or apprentice-level workers (explained in the next section).
🚗 Self‑Employment vs. Employed
Many plumbers in the UK operate as self‑employed contractors, setting their own rates and taking on more profitable jobs. This can significantly increase total earnings, although returns vary with client base and job volume.
🏙️ Local Demand & Economy
Urban centres with ongoing construction and renovation work typically offer more opportunities. While Hull isn’t as high‑paying as London or the South East, demand for plumbing services is steady thanks to residential, commercial, and infrastructure work.
🧑🔧 Plumber Salary by Experience
Experience impacts wage growth in plumbing, allowing professionals to progress from apprentices to seasoned experts.
🪛 Apprentice Plumbers
Entry point into the trade.
Often work under supervision.
Salaries can be quite low initially.
Typical annual before full qualification: £9,000–£15,000 range.
🔧 Newly Qualified / Journeyperson
First step after completing apprenticeships and formal training.
Handles most routine jobs independently.
Average earnings around £28,000–£34,000+.
🛠️ Experienced Plumbers
Several years of hands‑on experience.
May work on commercial contracts.
Earnings typically increase to £35,000–£46,000+.
🏆 Specialist / Self‑Employed
Those offering specialised services or running their own business often earn even more, depending on workload and reputation. Earnings beyond £50,000 are possible, particularly for Gas Safe specialists.
📈 Job Market Trends in 2026
🔍 Trade Demand Remains Strong
Skilled tradespeople, including plumbers, continue to be in demand across the UK, driven by:
Home renovations and repairs
New construction projects
Infrastructure maintenance
Trades are widely considered more resilient to automation and future job shifts due to their hands‑on nature.
📊 Salary Movement
According to UK labour market trend data, construction‑related roles like plumbers typically see salary ranges between £34,000 and £50,000 nationally, reflecting both experience and sector growth.
💼 Benefits of Being a Plumber in Hull
Plumbing is more than a paycheck — it offers several non‑salary advantages:
✔ Job Stability
Plumbing services are essential, sustaining demand in both good and challenging economic times.
✔ Progression Opportunities
With experience, plumbers can specialize in areas like gas or commercial plumbing or launch their own business.
✔ Work Variety
Plumbers work in homes, businesses, public buildings, and industrial settings.
✔ Benefits (Typical)
Employed plumbers frequently receive:
Paid holidays
Pension contributions
Healthcare support
Training and career advancement pathways
(Some roles include additional perks like incentive schemes or flexible working arrangements.)
🧠 Certifications and Education Impact
📚 Education Pathways
Plumbing apprenticeships (Level 2 & Level 3 NVQs)
Technical college training
On‑the‑job mentorship
🎓 Professional Certifications
Gas Safe Registration — essential for working on gas systems, increasing employability and pay.
Certificates in renewable technologies or advanced hydraulics expand scope and earning power.
Well‑qualified plumbers often outperform their peers in salary and job choice variety.
📍 Plumber Salary Comparison: Hull vs Nearby Cities
| Location | Average Plumber Salary |
|---|---|
| Kingston upon Hull | ~£32,200–£33,400 |
| Goole | ~£40,300+ |
| Market Weighton | ~£42,600+ |
| Brough | ~£38,600+ |
| North Ferriby | ~£38,500+ |
Nearby towns and smaller cities tend to offer slightly higher wages due to regional labour needs and different local economies.
🔮 Job Outlook for Plumbers in Hull
The future looks positive for plumbers:
Ongoing need for residential and commercial plumbing
Infrastructure upgrades
Retiring workforce creating openings
Stability even during economic shifts
Plumbing remains a strong career choice with solid job security, flexible pathways, and room for earning increases through experience and self‑employment.
🛠️ Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumbers in Kingston upon Hull enjoy respectable salaries, especially as they gain experience and specialist skills. While average pay in Hull may be slightly lower than some other UK regions, demand and job stability are strong, and opportunities to grow earnings — particularly through certification and self‑employment — are clear. For anyone considering a vocational career or planning to advance in plumbing, Hull offers a viable and rewarding path in a trade that’s essential to everyday life.