Plumbing continues to be a robust and in-demand trade across California, and Long Beach is no exception. With a strong job market and rising infrastructure investments, plumbers in Long Beach enjoy competitive salaries, diverse career opportunities, and long-term stability. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the plumber salary in Long Beach, CA for 2026, including average earnings, factors influencing pay, salaries by experience level, job market trends, benefits, and how Long Beach compares with nearby cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Long Beach, CA (2026)
Plumbers in Long Beach generally earn salaries that are competitive with nearby major cities like Los Angeles and Anaheim. However, localized demand, cost of living, union presence, and specialty work can shift earnings up or down.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $52,000 – $65,000 | $25 – $31 |
| Mid-Level | $70,000 – $90,000 | $34 – $43 |
| Experienced | $95,000 – $115,000 | $46 – $55 |
| Master / Specialist | $120,000 – $150,000+ | $58 – $72+ |
Typical average plumber salary in Long Beach (2026):
👉 Approximately $88,000 – $94,000 per year
This wage range reflects Long Beach’s steady demand for plumbing services in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
A plumber’s income in Long Beach is highly influenced by experience, licensing, specialization, and the type of employer.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Often apprentices or new journey-level plumbers
Perform basic installations, repairs, and maintenance
Work under supervision
Opportunities to earn overtime
Average pay: $52,000–$65,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most plumbing jobs
Have a solid foundation in both residential and commercial plumbing
More overtime and emergency call assignments
Average pay: $70,000–$90,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Trusted with large-scale projects, complex diagnostics
Frequently responsible for mentoring apprentices
Often work with commercial and industrial systems
Average pay: $95,000–$115,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Highest skill level and certification
Capable of system design, project management, specialized systems (e.g., medical gas, backflow)
Often operate their own businesses or hold senior positions
Average pay: $120,000–$150,000+ per year
What Factors Influence Plumber Earnings in Long Beach
Plumber salaries are shaped by a mix of industry, location, skills, credentials, and market conditions.
Major Salary Influencers
Licensing and Certification – Licensed master plumbers command higher pay.
Type of Work – Commercial and industrial projects typically pay more than residential jobs.
Union vs. Non-Union Employment – Union plumbers often receive better wages and benefits.
Overtime and Emergency Services – Extra hours significantly increase annual income.
Specialized Skills – Gas line installation, green plumbing, and backflow certification add value.
Self-Employment – Entrepreneurs may earn more but accept business risks.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Becoming a plumber doesn’t require a college degree, but completing an apprenticeship and earning professional certifications greatly enhances income potential.
Key Certifications
Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Installer Certification
OSHA Safety Training
Each of these can increase your salary by 10–30% or more depending on demand and specialization.
Education Path
High School Diploma or GED
Plumbing Apprenticeship (3–5 years)
Journeyman Licensing Exam
Master License (additional experience and exams)
Job Market Trends in Long Beach (2026)
The plumbing job market in Long Beach is strong and expected to grow steadily.
Key Trends
Population Growth and Urban Development – Continued residential and commercial expansions keep demand high.
Infrastructure Upgrades – Older buildings and redevelopment projects require plumbing upgrades and replacements.
Sustainable Plumbing Technologies – Growing interest in energy-efficient and water-saving systems.
Retirement of Skilled Workers – Creates openings and higher wages for new and mid-level plumbers.
This dynamic environment supports stable job growth and career opportunities for both new apprentices and seasoned professionals.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Long Beach
Choosing plumbing as a career in Long Beach offers an array of financial and lifestyle benefits:
Common Benefits
High demand year-round
Job stability even during economic downturns
Competitive wages with overtime pay
Union-backed healthcare and benefits (for union members)
Opportunities to start your own business
Physical, hands-on work with variety
Licensed plumbers often enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and continuing education support—especially within unionized roles.
Long Beach Plumber Salary Compared to Other Cities
Plumber salaries vary across Southern California. Here’s how Long Beach compares:
| City | Avg. Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Long Beach, CA | $88,000 – $94,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| Anaheim, CA | $85,000 – $92,000 |
| San Diego, CA | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| Riverside, CA | $75,000 – $85,000 |
Long Beach wages are competitive, often slightly lower than Los Angeles but higher than many inland cities like Riverside.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Long Beach
Long Beach has a higher cost of living compared to the national average, particularly due to housing and transportation. However:
Plumbing salaries usually compensate well for living expenses.
Many plumbers live in nearby suburbs or commute to lower-cost areas.
Overtime and specialized work improve disposable income.
While not the cheapest city, plumbing remains a financially rewarding career choice in Long Beach.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Long Beach (2026 and Beyond)
The job outlook for plumbers continues to be excellent. Skilled trades are expected to grow through the end of the decade due to:
Ongoing construction in residential and commercial markets
Aging infrastructure needing repair and replacement
Retiring baby boomers in the skilled trades
Technological advancements in plumbing systems
Plumbers are considered essential professionals with low unemployment rates and long-term opportunities.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Long Beach, CA reflects a strong balance between solid compensation, job security, and career growth. Whether you’re entering the trade or advancing your experience, Long Beach offers a promising environment for plumbers.
With average earnings close to six figures and a steady job market, plumbing in Long Beach remains a high-demand and financially rewarding career path. Focus on gaining experience, earning certifications, and building specialized skills to maximize your income potential.