Plumbing is an essential skilled trade and remains a solid career option in Lexington, Kentucky. With steady demand for residential and commercial services, plumbing professionals in 2026 enjoy competitive pay, job stability, and strong growth potential. This article breaks down plumber salary in Lexington, KY, factors that impact earnings, salary based on experience, job trends, benefits, and a comparison with other cities to give you a full picture of what to expect.
Average Plumber Salary in Lexington, KY (2026)
In 2026, plumber salaries in Lexington reflect the region’s cost of living, demand for skilled trades, and experience levels.
Estimated Salary Range
| Pay Category | Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Range | ~$44,544 | ~$21/hr |
| Typical Range | ~$51,907 – $68,143 | ~$25 – $33/hr |
| Average | ~$59,995 | ~$29/hr |
According to recent compensation data, plumbers in Lexington on average make close to $60,000 per year, with most earning between approximately $52,000 and $68,000.
Data from local job postings show hourly wages averaging about $28.28 with typical earnings influenced by overtime as well.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts plumber earnings in Lexington. Below is an overview of typical pay by experience.
Entry-Level Plumbers
Often apprentices or newly licensed workers
Assist with basic repairs and installations
Learning on the job and completing training requirements
Estimated pay: ~$18–$25/hr (varies widely by employer)
Journeyperson Plumbers
A journeyperson has completed apprenticeship requirements and can work independently.
Solid trade skills
Handles a wide range of residential and light commercial tasks
Average salary: ~$65,557/year (~$31.50/hr) in Lexington.
Experienced & Specialist Plumbers
With multiple years of experience and often additional certifications:
Lead complex installs
Manage job sites
Potential for premium pay due to specialized skills
Wages can approach the higher end of the local scale (est. $70k+).
High-Level Positions
Plumbing managers or senior specialists can earn significantly more:
| Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Plumbing Manager | ~$97,960/year |
These roles require leadership, extensive experience, and often administrative responsibility.
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several key variables influence how much plumbers make in Lexington:
1. Experience & Skill Level
Apprentices earn less than journeypersons and specialists.
Continued learning (e.g., advanced certifications) increases value.
2. Certifications & Licensing
While a college degree isn’t required in plumbing, state licensing and certifications matter:
Kentucky journeyperson and master plumber credentials
Specialized certifications such as backflow prevention or gas fitting
Plumbers with advanced credentials can negotiate higher pay.
Job Market Trends (2026)
The plumbing job market in Lexington remains solid in 2026, driven by a combination of residential growth, renovation projects, and infrastructure needs.
Trends Affecting the Market
New housing construction and rehab work
Growing emphasis on water conservation and modern systems
Aging buildings with ongoing maintenance needs
Steady demand for emergency and seasonal services
Kentucky’s overall demand for plumbers aligns with national trends for skilled trades, where retirement among current workers opens up jobs for new entrants.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Working as a plumber in Lexington offers benefits that extend beyond pay:
Common Job Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans (401k/ pension in union roles)
Paid time off and sick leave
Overtime pay and bonuses
Union-negotiated wage protections
Many plumbing employers also support apprenticeships and continuing education, helping workers advance their skills and earnings.
Comparing Plumber Salaries: Lexington vs Other Cities
To understand how Lexington compares, here’s how plumber salaries in Lexington stack up with nearby or similar cities:
| City | Average Annual Plumber Salary |
|---|---|
| Lexington, KY | ~$59,995 |
| Louisville, KY | ~$61,978 |
| Florence, KY (nearby) | ~$87,913 |
While Lexington’s average salary is competitive with Louisville, certain nearby smaller cities like Florence show significantly higher averages, often due to local demand and employer structures.
Cost of Living & Lifestyle Considerations
Lexington offers a relatively reasonable cost of living compared to larger U.S. metropolitan areas. As a result:
A plumber earning ~$60k+ can often live comfortably, especially as a single individual or dual-income household.
Wages combined with moderate housing and living costs make plumbing an attractive career option in the region.
Many locals cite that salaries in the $60k–$70k range allow for comfortable living, savings, and work-life balance in Lexington.
Job Outlook and Career Growth
The job outlook for plumbers in Lexington and the surrounding area is positive:
Future Job Prospects
Continued need for residential and commercial plumbing work
Increased focus on efficient water systems
Skilled labor shortages creating openings
Trades positions including plumbing are less susceptible to automation
Plumbing remains a stable career path with opportunities for advancement into supervisory, management, or business ownership roles.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Lexington, KY reflects a healthy and stable trade career. With average earnings near $60,000 and room for growth with experience and certifications, plumbing offers a strong career choice for those interested in skilled trades. The job outlook, combined with a reasonable cost of living and solid benefits, makes plumbing a viable long‑term career in Lexington and beyond.
Whether you’re just starting as an apprentice or looking to advance into higher roles, understanding the local salary landscape helps you plan your career path with confidence.