Plumbing remains one of the most reliable skilled trades in the United States, and Los Angeles, CA is one of the highest-paying markets for plumbers. In 2026, plumber salaries in Los Angeles continue to rise due to strong construction activity, aging infrastructure, high living costs, and consistent demand for residential and commercial plumbing services.
This detailed guide breaks down average plumber salaries in Los Angeles, earnings by experience, key factors affecting pay, job market trends, benefits, and how LA compares with other major cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Los Angeles, CA (2026)
Plumbers in Los Angeles earn significantly more than the national average. The combination of union presence, large-scale construction projects, and emergency service demand pushes wages higher.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $55,000 – $68,000 | $26 – $33 |
| Mid-level | $75,000 – $95,000 | $36 – $46 |
| Experienced | $100,000 – $125,000 | $48 – $60 |
| Master / Specialized | $130,000 – $160,000+ | $62 – $75+ |
Average plumber salary in Los Angeles (2026):
👉 Around $92,000 – $98,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience is one of the strongest factors influencing plumber income in Los Angeles.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices or newly licensed plumbers
Work under supervision
Focus on residential repairs and basic installations
Overtime opportunities increase earnings
Average pay: $55,000–$68,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most jobs
Residential and light commercial work
Strong demand for troubleshooting skills
Average pay: $75,000–$95,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Commercial projects, system design, inspections
Higher hourly rates and leadership roles
Frequently eligible for bonuses
Average pay: $100,000–$125,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Gas systems, medical piping, high-rise buildings
Business owners or contractors
Emergency and government contracts
Average pay: $130,000–$160,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Los Angeles
Several variables directly impact how much a plumber can earn in LA:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing level (Journeyman vs. Master)
Union vs. non-union work
Type of plumbing (residential, commercial, industrial)
Overtime and emergency calls
Specialized skills (gas lines, backflow prevention)
Business ownership or freelancing
Plumbers offering 24/7 emergency services often earn significantly more than standard hourly workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While plumbing does not require a college degree, certain certifications greatly improve earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
California 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)
State licensing exams
Plumbers with advanced certifications can earn 15–30% more than unlicensed workers.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Los Angeles (2026)
The plumbing job market in Los Angeles remains strong and stable.
Current Trends
Continued growth in residential renovations
Increased commercial construction
Aging water infrastructure requiring upgrades
Strong demand for eco-friendly plumbing systems
High retirement rates creating labor shortages
Los Angeles consistently reports thousands of open plumbing positions annually, making job security very high.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Los Angeles
Beyond salary, plumbers enjoy a wide range of professional and financial benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Union pensions and retirement plans
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job stability during economic downturns
Ability to start a private business
High demand year-round
Union plumbers in LA often receive some of the best benefits packages in the skilled trades.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Los Angeles vs Other Cities (2026)
Los Angeles ranks among the top-paying cities for plumbers in the U.S.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $110,000 |
| San Diego, CA | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| New York City, NY | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $72,000 – $82,000 |
| Houston, TX | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Although San Francisco pays slightly more, Los Angeles offers more job volume and consistent demand.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has a high cost of living, but plumber salaries are adjusted accordingly.
Key Takeaways
Higher wages offset housing costs
Overtime opportunities increase net income
Many plumbers live outside the city core to save money
Union wages help maintain purchasing power
Plumbers who manage expenses wisely can maintain a strong standard of living.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Los Angeles
The outlook for plumbers in Los Angeles is very positive through 2030 and beyond.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade with no automation risk
Constant need for repairs and upgrades
Infrastructure investment
Growing population and housing demand
Plumbing is considered one of the most recession-resistant careers.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Los Angeles in 2026?
Yes. Plumbing offers:
High earning potential without college debt
Strong job security
Opportunities for business ownership
Long-term career growth
For individuals willing to complete apprenticeships and licensing, plumbing in Los Angeles remains a top-tier skilled trade career.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Los Angeles, CA reflects the city’s high demand, complex infrastructure, and skilled labor shortages. With average salaries nearing six figures and excellent job security, plumbing continues to be a smart, future-proof career choice. Whether you are starting out or advancing to master-level work, Los Angeles provides some of the best opportunities in the plumbing industry.