Plumbing is a vital trade with steady demand across the U.S., and Memphis, Tennessee offers solid earning potential for those in the profession. As of 2026, plumbers in Memphis can expect competitive wages influenced by experience, certifications, and the type of plumbing work performed. This comprehensive guide explores average salary ranges, factors affecting earnings, job outlook, benefits, and how Memphis compares with other cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Memphis, TN (2026)
In 2026, the average salary for a plumber in Memphis reflects a combination of regional cost of living and local demand for tradespeople.
2026 Salary Overview
| Salary Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Annual Salary | ~$60,707 |
| Typical Range | ~$52,524 – $68,953 |
| Hourly Rate (average) | ~$29/hr |
| Entry-Level Range | ~$45,073 – ~$52,524 |
| Top Earners | ~$68,953 – $76,459 |
Key Point: Most plumbers in Memphis make between approximately $52,500 and $68,900 per year, with an average around $60,700 as of early 2026.
Other local data shows variations: some reports place the annual average closer to $50,000–$58,000 depending on employer and job type, reflecting real-world job postings and employer surveys.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly influences plumber earnings in Memphis. As skills develop, wages typically rise.
Typical Salary by Experience
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Apprentice (0–2 yrs) | ~$40,000 – $45,000 |
| Journeyman (2–5 yrs) | ~$50,000 – $60,000 |
| Experienced Plumber (5–10 yrs) | ~$60,000 – $70,000 |
| Senior / Master Level | ~$70,000+ |
Apprentice plumbers in Memphis earn roughly $19.51 per hour on average, reflecting early career pay before licensing.
In contrast, journeyman plumbers (licensed, independent plumbers) typically average around $60,850 annually, or about $29/hr, and may earn more with experience and specialization.
Advanced roles like commercial or specialized system plumbers often command higher wages, though this varies widely by employer and project complexity.
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several key elements affect how much plumbers can earn in Memphis:
1. Experience and Skill Level
More experienced plumbers earn noticeably more.
Master plumbers with additional certifications and business ownership can push higher incomes.
2. Certifications & Licensing
Holding a Tennessee plumbing license or special certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, gas piping) can positively impact pay.
3. Type of Work
Residential plumbing often pays less than commercial or industrial plumbing.
Emergency and 24/7 service work typically comes with higher compensation.
4. Employer and Union Status
Union-affiliated plumbers and those working for municipal or larger commercial employers may see higher base wages and better benefits.
5. Overtime & Bonuses
Overtime and incentive pay can significantly increase total income, especially for highly skilled emergency technicians.
Benefits and Job Perks
Plumbing jobs in Memphis often come with additional advantages beyond base salary:
Common Benefits
Health insurance, dental, and vision coverage
Retirement plans and pension options (especially union jobs)
Paid time off and sick leave
Overtime pay for nights/weekends
Job training and certification support
Benefits can make a meaningful difference in overall compensation and career satisfaction.
Job Market Trends & Outlook (2026 and Beyond)
The job outlook for plumbers in Memphis is solid in 2026 thanks to several trends:
Market Trends
Stable demand for both residential repairs and commercial installation.
Growth in renovation projects and aging infrastructure upgrades.
Continued need for skilled journeymen due to retiring workforce.
Outlook
Plumbing remains a high-demand skilled trade with minimal risk of automation replacing core tasks. Career opportunities in Memphis are expected to stay consistent or grow modestly through the next decade.
How Memphis Compares to Other Cities
Here’s how plumber salaries in Memphis stack up with some other U.S. cities in 2026:
| City | Approx. Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Memphis, TN | ~$60,700 |
| Nashville, TN | ~$61,000+ |
| Jackson, TN | ~$60,250+ |
| Southaven, MS (near Memphis) | ~$60,600+ |
| San Francisco, CA | Significantly higher (often $80,000+) |
| Chicago, IL | Higher than Memphis (~$65k+) |
Compared to national high-cost cities like San Francisco or Chicago, Memphis salaries are lower, but the cost of living in Memphis is significantly more affordable, which can make a given income go further locally.
Education and Certification That Impact Pay
While formal college degrees aren’t required, plumbers in Memphis benefit greatly from:
Key Credentials
Journeyman Plumbing License
Master Plumber License
Specialty Certifications (e.g., gas piping, medical gas, backflow prevention)
OSHA Safety Training
These qualifications can help plumbers demand higher wages and secure specialized roles.
Benefits of a Plumbing Career in Memphis
Choosing plumbing as a career in Memphis offers:
Stable and recession-resistant work
Growing demand for skilled technicians
Good earning potential without a four-year degree
Flexibility to start a business or freelance
Opportunities for overtime and specialty work
Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in Memphis, TN reflect a healthy balance between earnings potential and regional affordability. With average pay around $60,000+ per year, growing opportunities, and diverse paths for advancement, plumbing remains a strong career choice for individuals passionate about skilled trades. Experience, certifications, and specialization are key levers for increasing earnings and building a long-term, secure career in this essential trade.