Plumbing remains one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the U.S., and in Plano, Texas, plumbers enjoy competitive wages and strong long‑term career prospects. This SEO‑friendly 2026 guide breaks down plumber salary in Plano by experience, discusses key factors influencing earnings, explores job market trends, outlines benefits, and compares pay with nearby cities — giving you real value whether you’re starting out or advancing your plumbing career.
💼 Average Plumber Salary in Plano, TX (2026)
Plumbers in Plano earn solid wages that reflect the city’s steady demand for skilled trades. Different sources show slightly varying figures, but overall pay remains competitive with the broader Texas market.
📊 Salary Overview
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Typical Hourly Rate (local estimates) | About $44.34/hr (Indeed) |
| Average Annual Salary | ~$77,000 (ReadySetHire) |
| Median Salary Range (Glassdoor) | ~$59K–$98K/year |
| Journeyperson Average | ~$69,559/year |
👉 In 2026, most plumbers in Plano can expect to earn between roughly $60,000 and $98,000 annually, with variation based on experience, certifications, and employer type.
📈 Salary Breakdown by Experience
Experience is a major factor determining plumber pay. Below is a typical breakdown:
🧰 Entry‑Level / Apprentice Plumbers
Just beginning training or working under supervision
Hands‑on learning with lower wage rates
Gain skills on the job while earning
Typical pay range: $30,000–$45,000 (apprentice level)
🔧 Journeyperson Plumbers
Independently handle service calls and installs
More technical responsibility
Often pass a state licensing exam
Average pay: ~$69,559/year in Plano
🛠 Experienced & Licensed Plumbers
Handle complex commercial or residential projects
Advanced troubleshooting and system design
Possible supervisory roles
Estimated pay: ~$80,000–$98,000/year
⭐ Master / Specialized Plumbers
Highest experience level, often owning businesses
Emergency services, specialized systems
Top earners: Potentially $100,000+ annually
🔑 Key Factors That Influence Plumbing Salaries
📍 1. Experience & Skill Level
The most straightforward factor is how many years you’ve been working and what you can do. More challenging jobs and leadership roles command higher pay.
🎓 2. Certifications and Licensing
Texas plumbers benefit from licensing credentials like:
Journeyman plumber license
Master plumber license
Specialty certifications (e.g., medical gas, backflow prevention)
Higher certifications often translate directly to higher wages and job opportunities.
🏙 Location & Cost of Living
Plano belongs to the Dallas‑Fort Worth metro, where demand is strong and wages often exceed the Texas average.
🏢 Employer Type
Union plumbers, commercial contractors, and government jobs tend to pay more and offer better benefits compared to small residential service shops.
⏱ Overtime & Emergency Pay
Plumbers who are available for emergency calls or overtime can significantly boost annual earnings.
📊 Plumber Salary in Texas vs Plano
| Area | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Plano, TX | ~$77,000* |
| Texas Average | ~$63,216 |
| Dallas, TX | ~$64,000–$76,000 |
*Plano includes a wide span of reported earnings; median figures often align near the Texas average but skew higher with experience and union jobs.
📉 Nearby City Comparisons (2026)
How does Plano stack up to nearby cities in salaried plumber positions?
| City | Avg. Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|
| Plano, TX | ~$77,000 |
| Dallas, TX | ~$76,000 (varies by source) |
| McKinney, TX | Higher journeyman averages nearby |
| Richardson, TX | Similar competitive pay |
📉 2026 Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Plano
Plumbing jobs in Texas are expected to grow as populations expand and infrastructure ages. According to broader workforce data, plumbing and related trades are among the occupations seeing strong projected growth in the state.
📈 Trend Drivers
Population growth in Plano and DFW metro
New residential and commercial development
Aging homes requiring retrofits and repairs
Demand for sustainable, eco‑efficient systems
Job openings remain plentiful, and plumbers with specialized skills (gas systems, backflow prevention, commercial plumbing) are especially in demand.
🎁 Benefits of Plumbing Careers
Plumbing offers a variety of advantages beyond salary:
📌 Stable Employment
Plumbing is a core service — people always need functional water, heating, and drainage systems.
🛡 Benefits Packages
Many employers provide health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
📜 Career Growth
Plumbers can become:
Foremen
Project Managers
Business Owners
🚀 Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Experienced plumbers often open their own companies, increasing income potential.
🎓 Education, Training & Certifications
📘 Path to Becoming a Plumber
High School Diploma or GED
Vocational training or trade school
Apprenticeship (paid on‑the‑job training)
Journeyman license
Advanced certifications or Master license
📜 Valuable Certifications
Journeyman Plumber
Master Plumber
Backflow Prevention
Specialty Gas System Installer
Certifications boost credibility and can raise earning potential significantly.
📌 Final Thoughts: Is Plumbing a Good Career in Plano in 2026?
🎯 Yes! Plumber salary in Plano, TX 2026 is strong and often above the broader Texas average. With solid demand, multiple pathways for growth, and increasing infrastructure needs, plumbing remains a secure and rewarding career choice for many — whether you’re just starting or aiming for master‑level expertise.
Key Takeaways:
Competitive wages with growth potential.
Salary increases with experience and certifications.
Benefits and job security are strong.
Skilled plumbers in Plano are likely to remain in demand.