Plumbing is a dependable skilled trade with steady demand, and Orlando, Florida offers a variety of earning opportunities for professionals at all levels. Whether you’re considering entering the plumbing field or planning to advance your career, understanding plumber salaries in Orlando in 2026 is essential. This article explores average pay, experience-based earnings, influencing factors, job market trends, benefits, career outlook, and how Orlando compares with other cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Orlando, FL (2026)
As of early 2026, plumbers in Orlando earn competitive salaries compared to many Florida markets, though generally below some larger U.S. metro areas.
Salary Overview
| Category | Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Average Plumber | $61,181 | ~$29/hr |
| Range (typical) | $45,424 – $77,055 | ~$22 – $37/hr |
| Commercial Plumber | ~$58,893 | ~$28/hr |
| Journeyman Plumber Average (Glassdoor) | ~$90,292 | ~$43/hr |
Different sources show variations based on job title, employer, and methodology. For example, hourly wage estimates from job postings show averages around $26.73–$28.85 per hour for general plumbers in Orlando.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a significant role in how much plumbers earn in Orlando.
Entry-Level and Apprentices
Apprentice Plumber: Around $43,500/year (~$21/hr).
Entry-level Plumber: Early career plumbers earn closer to $50,000–$58,000/year.
Apprentices learn foundational skills under supervision, so salaries are lower early on.
Mid-Level Professionals
After gaining a few years of hands-on experience, plumbers can expect moderate increases.
Mid-level Plumbers: Often earn $58,000–$65,000/year, handling most residential and commercial tasks independently.
Experienced and Journeyman Plumbers
Veteran plumbers with licenses and specialized skills are in higher demand.
Experienced Plumbers: Likely to earn $60,000+, sometimes into the mid-$70,000 range.
Journeyman Plumbers: One data set shows an average of ~$90,000/year with top earners exceeding $119,000/year.
Factors Influencing Plumber Earnings in Orlando
Several key elements affect how much plumbers make:
1. Licensing & Certifications
Becoming a licensed plumber or journeyman drastically increases earning potential. Specialized certifications (e.g., backflow prevention, medical gas) also command better wages.
2. Type of Work
Residential plumbing: Good baseline demand
Commercial & industrial: Higher complexity and often higher pay
Emergency/24/7 services: Premium rates and overtime
Commercial plumbers and journeyman roles often see higher compensation than general residential plumbers.
3. Location Within Region
Pay can vary substantially between Orlando and nearby cities. For example, Clermont and Lake Mary often offer higher average plumber pay than Orlando itself.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Orlando (2026)
The job market in Orlando for skilled trades remains healthy.
Growth Drivers
Population expansion and housing demand
Tourism industry maintenance needs
Commercial and residential construction
Infrastructure upgrades
Orlando’s overall job market has been described as strong in recent years, reflecting high demand across many sectors including trades.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Orlando
Plumbers enjoy a range of non-salary benefits that add to the value of the career.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and retirement plans (often with employers)
Paid overtime and potential bonuses
Opportunities for self-employment
Skill development through apprenticeships
Licensed and experienced plumbers can also pursue business ownership or contracting, further boosting income.
Job Outlook
The future looks promising for plumbers in Orlando:
Skilled labor shortages are common in many parts of the U.S., including Florida.
Essential maintenance and construction ensure ongoing demand.
Licensing and specialization continue to be key growth areas.
These trends indicate stable job opportunities with room for advancement for plumbers who invest in training and skills.
Comparing Orlando to Other Cities
Understanding how Orlando stacks up against other markets can help you gauge pay potential.
| City | Average Plumber Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| Orlando, FL | ~$61,000+ |
| Tampa, FL | ~similar or slightly above Orlando |
| Jacksonville, FL | Moderate |
| Miami, FL | Slightly lower than national average |
Compared with major cities in other states, Orlando’s pay is often lower than high-cost metros like Los Angeles or San Francisco, but still competitive within Florida’s growing economy.
Education and Certification Pathways
Typical Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent
Apprenticeship programs (usually 4–5 years)
State licensing (required to work independently)
Valuable Certifications
Journeyman plumber license
Master plumber license
Specialty credentials (backflow, gas systems)
Licensed plumbers typically earn significantly more than unlicensed helpers.
Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing a Good Career in Orlando?
Yes — plumbing in Orlando offers a solid, stable career path with room for growth. Salaries increase with experience and licensure, and demand remains strong thanks to ongoing construction and maintenance needs. While pay may be lower than some larger U.S. cities, Orlando provides a good balance of opportunity, earning potential, and lifestyle for tradespeople willing to commit to training and certification.