Plumbing remains one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the UK, and Liverpool offers strong opportunities for professionals in this field. In 2026, plumber salaries in Liverpool reflect the city’s growing construction sector, housing renovations, and infrastructure development.
This guide provides an in-depth look at average salaries, experience-based pay, factors influencing earnings, certifications, benefits, and job market trends, along with comparisons to other UK cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Liverpool 2026
Liverpool offers competitive wages for plumbers, slightly below London but higher than many other regions. Salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and whether the plumber is self-employed or works for a company.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | £22,000 – £28,000 | £11 – £14 |
| Mid-level | £28,000 – £38,000 | £14 – £19 |
| Experienced | £40,000 – £50,000 | £20 – £25 |
| Master / Specialist | £52,000 – £65,000+ | £26 – £33+ |
Average plumber salary in Liverpool:
👉 Around £35,000–£40,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts plumber earnings in Liverpool.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Usually apprentices or newly qualified plumbers
Work under supervision
Handle basic residential plumbing tasks
Often receive incremental pay increases during apprenticeship
Average pay: £22,000–£28,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Work independently on residential and commercial jobs
Responsible for troubleshooting and installations
May start supervising junior staff
Average pay: £28,000–£38,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Undertake complex commercial projects and system installations
Leadership roles or site management
Higher rates for emergency or specialized work
Average pay: £40,000–£50,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Specialized work such as gas systems, industrial installations, or project management
Often self-employed or contractors with their own teams
Command premium rates due to experience and certifications
Average pay: £52,000–£65,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Liverpool
Several variables impact how much a plumber can earn in Liverpool:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of qualification and licensing
Type of plumbing work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union membership
Specialized skills (gas fitting, heating systems, eco-friendly installations)
Freelancing or self-employment
Demand for emergency call-outs
Plumbers who offer 24/7 emergency services or specialize in high-demand areas often earn considerably more than standard workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While plumbing doesn’t require a university degree, certain qualifications significantly enhance earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in Plumbing
Gas Safe Registration
City & Guilds Diplomas in Plumbing and Heating
Water Regulations Certification
Health & Safety (IOSH/NEBOSH) Certification
Education Path
Completion of high school or equivalent
Apprenticeship program (2–4 years)
Passing relevant NVQ and Gas Safe exams
Certified plumbers can earn 20–30% more than uncertified or entry-level workers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Liverpool (2026)
The plumbing industry in Liverpool remains strong due to ongoing construction, renovations, and maintenance work.
Current Trends
Growth in residential housing projects
Increased commercial and industrial construction
Aging plumbing infrastructure requiring upgrades
Eco-friendly installations driving demand for specialized skills
Shortage of skilled plumbers creating opportunities for higher pay
Liverpool consistently reports a healthy number of open plumbing positions, ensuring job security.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Liverpool
In addition to salary, plumbers enjoy multiple professional and financial benefits.
Common Benefits
Pension schemes and retirement contributions
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Health and safety protections
Job stability during economic fluctuations
Opportunity to start a private business or work freelance
High demand for skilled trades
Unionized plumbers in Liverpool often receive some of the best pay and benefits packages in the UK trade sector.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Liverpool vs Other UK Cities (2026)
Liverpool salaries are competitive but generally below London, reflecting regional cost-of-living differences.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Liverpool | £35,000–£40,000 |
| London | £45,000–£55,000 |
| Manchester | £36,000–£42,000 |
| Birmingham | £33,000–£39,000 |
| Glasgow | £34,000–£40,000 |
| Leeds | £32,000–£38,000 |
Liverpool provides a good balance of wages and lower living costs, making it an attractive location for skilled tradespeople.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Liverpool
While Liverpool is more affordable than London, careful budgeting ensures a comfortable lifestyle for plumbers.
Key Takeaways
Salaries cover housing and daily expenses comfortably
Overtime opportunities increase net income
Freelance plumbers can achieve higher earnings through private contracts
Certification and specialization significantly improve living standards
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Liverpool
The outlook for plumbers in Liverpool remains very positive through 2030 and beyond.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Plumbing is an essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous demand for repairs, maintenance, and new installations
Infrastructure upgrades and population growth
Retirements creating room for new skilled plumbers
Plumbing is considered one of the most recession-resistant careers in Liverpool and the UK.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Liverpool in 2026?
Absolutely. Plumbing offers:
Strong earning potential without university debt
Consistent demand and job security
Opportunities for business ownership
Career growth through certifications and specialization
For anyone willing to complete apprenticeships and gain relevant qualifications, plumbing in Liverpool is a stable and rewarding career path.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Liverpool reflects the city’s demand for skilled tradespeople, ongoing construction projects, and infrastructure needs. With average salaries approaching £40,000 and excellent career growth potential, plumbing remains a highly viable and rewarding profession. Entry-level workers, experienced professionals, and master plumbers all have clear pathways to higher earnings, making Liverpool an attractive city for plumbing careers.