Plumbing remains one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the UK, and Nottingham is no exception. In 2026, plumbers in Nottingham enjoy competitive salaries, stable job opportunities, and strong prospects for career growth. This guide breaks down average earnings, factors affecting pay, salary by experience, job market trends, benefits, and how Nottingham compares to other UK cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Nottingham (2026)
Salaries for plumbers in Nottingham vary depending on experience, specialization, and whether they are self-employed or working for a company.
Estimated Salary Range
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | £21,000 – £26,000 | £10 – £13 |
| Mid-level | £27,000 – £33,000 | £13 – £16 |
| Experienced | £34,000 – £42,000 | £16 – £20 |
| Master / Specialized | £43,000 – £55,000+ | £20 – £27+ |
Average plumber salary in Nottingham (2026):
👉 Approximately £32,000 – £35,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in a plumber’s earning potential.
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices or newly qualified plumbers
Work under supervision
Focus on residential repairs and basic installations
Average pay: £21,000–£26,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–5 Years)
Independently handle most domestic and small commercial jobs
Strong demand for troubleshooting skills
Average pay: £27,000–£33,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (6–10+ Years)
Larger commercial projects, system design, inspections
Supervisory roles and specialized work
Average pay: £34,000–£42,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Gas systems, commercial piping, high-value contracts
Often self-employed or running a small business
Average pay: £43,000–£55,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Nottingham
Several factors directly affect how much a plumber earns in Nottingham:
Experience level and years in the trade
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union membership or self-employment
Specialized skills (gas, central heating, renewable energy systems)
Overtime and emergency call work
Business ownership and client base
Plumbers offering emergency services or working in high-demand sectors often earn significantly more than standard rates.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While plumbing does not require a university degree, professional qualifications and certifications can increase earnings.
High-Value Certifications
NVQ Level 2 & 3 in Plumbing
Gas Safe Register Certification
City & Guilds Plumbing Qualifications
PAT Testing Certification
Renewable energy plumbing certifications
Education Path
High school diploma or equivalent
Apprenticeship (2–5 years)
Industry-recognized qualifications and certifications
Certified plumbers can earn 15–30% more than those without formal qualifications.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Nottingham (2026)
The plumbing job market in Nottingham remains strong with consistent demand across domestic and commercial sectors.
Key Trends
Ongoing residential construction and renovations
Increased demand for commercial plumbing
Aging water and heating infrastructure
Growth in eco-friendly and energy-efficient systems
Labour shortages due to retirements and high demand
Nottingham consistently reports a healthy number of open plumbing positions, providing strong job security for qualified professionals.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Nottingham
Plumbers in Nottingham enjoy more than just a competitive salary.
Common Benefits
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Pension contributions and retirement plans
Opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurship
Job stability even during economic fluctuations
Ability to specialize in high-demand areas for increased earnings
Plumber Salary Comparison: Nottingham vs Other UK Cities (2026)
Nottingham pays competitively compared to other UK cities, though London and some southern cities offer higher rates.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Nottingham | £32,000 – £35,000 |
| London | £38,000 – £45,000 |
| Birmingham | £30,000 – £34,000 |
| Manchester | £31,000 – £36,000 |
| Leeds | £30,000 – £33,000 |
| Bristol | £33,000 – £37,000 |
While London offers higher pay, Nottingham offers lower living costs and a strong demand for plumbing services, making it an attractive option.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Nottingham
The cost of living in Nottingham is moderate compared to southern cities.
Housing costs are lower than London or Bristol
High demand for plumbers allows for competitive wages
Overtime and emergency work improve overall income
Plumbers can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while saving or investing for the future.
Job Outlook for Plumbers in Nottingham
The outlook for plumbing professionals in Nottingham is positive.
Why the Job Outlook Is Strong
Plumbing is essential with no automation risk
Constant need for repairs, renovations, and new builds
Infrastructure improvements and eco-friendly installations
Steady population growth increasing demand
Plumbing is considered a recession-resistant career, providing long-term job stability.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Nottingham in 2026?
Yes. Plumbing offers:
Strong earning potential without university debt
Stable and growing job market
Opportunities for business ownership
Career advancement through specialization
For individuals completing apprenticeships and obtaining key certifications, Nottingham provides excellent career opportunities for plumbers in 2026.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the plumber salary in Nottingham reflects the city’s steady demand, moderate cost of living, and skilled labor needs. With average salaries ranging from £32,000 to £35,000 and opportunities for specialization and self-employment, plumbing remains a reliable, rewarding, and future-proof career in Nottingham. Whether you are starting out or advancing to master-level work, Nottingham offers a strong platform for a long-term career in plumbing.