Skilled trades continue to be a stable and rewarding career path in the U.S., and plumbing is among the most in-demand trades in Raleigh, North Carolina. With Raleigh’s growing population, thriving construction sector, and expanding infrastructure projects, plumbers in the region are well compensated. In this comprehensive 2026 guide, we’ll explore plumber salary in Raleigh, NC, including average earnings, salary by experience, influencing factors, job market trends, certifications, education, benefits, and comparisons with other cities.
Average Plumber Salary in Raleigh, NC (2026)
Plumber salaries in Raleigh are competitive with the national average, reflecting the city’s moderate cost of living and expanding job market. Plumbers in Raleigh enjoy solid wage growth, driven by new construction and maintenance demand.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $40,000–$52,000 | $19–$25 |
| Mid-level | $54,000–$68,000 | $26–$33 |
| Experienced | $70,000–$85,000 | $34–$41 |
| Master / Specialized | $88,000–$105,000 | $42–$50 |
Average plumber salary in Raleigh, NC (2026):
👉 Approximately $66,000–$75,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly affects earnings in the plumbing trade. Here’s how salaries typically progress as plumbers gain expertise:
1. Entry-Level Plumbers (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices or newly licensed plumbers
Work on simple installations, basic repairs, and support tasks
Often part of training and certification programs
Expected pay: $40,000–$52,000/year
2. Mid-Level Plumbers (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most residential jobs
Work on complex installations and troubleshooting
Can take on light commercial assignments
Expected pay: $54,000–$68,000/year
3. Experienced Plumbers (7–10+ Years)
Skilled in commercial work
Leadership roles and project management
Often trusted with higher-paying contracts
Expected pay: $70,000–$85,000/year
4. Master Plumbers & Specialists
Highest certification levels
Expertise in gas piping, medical systems, and large-scale projects
Ownership or supervisory roles in plumbing companies
Expected pay: $88,000–$105,000/year
Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings in Raleigh
Several elements influence a plumber’s earnings in Raleigh, NC:
Key Salary Drivers
Experience and certifications
Type of plumbing (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union vs. non-union positions
Emergency and overtime work
Specialized skills such as gas line installation
Business ownership or independent contractor status
Plumbers who take emergency call-outs or specialize in niche services often earn significantly more than the average.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While a college degree isn’t required, formal education and certifications strongly affect plumber salaries:
Valuable Certifications
Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Piping Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
Typical Education & Training Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (usually 4–5 years)
State licensing exams and ongoing continuing education
Plumbers with advanced certifications often earn 15–25% more than those without.
Job Market Trends for Plumbers in Raleigh (2026)
The Raleigh job market for plumbers is strong and projected to grow as the city expands in population, housing, and commercial development.
Current Trends
Increased residential construction due to in-migration
Expanding commercial real estate and retail buildouts
Aging infrastructure requiring replacement and upgrades
Growth in eco-friendly plumbing solutions
Continued demand for emergency and maintenance services
The outlook for plumbing jobs remains promising, with many employers reporting ongoing demand for skilled tradespeople.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in Raleigh
Choosing a plumbing career in Raleigh offers various professional and financial advantages:
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans and pensions
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Steady employment even during economic downturns
Opportunities for freelance and business ownership
Skill development with long-term career growth
Plumbers often enjoy strong work-life balance due to high demand and hourly wage structures that include overtime.
Cost of Living vs. Salaries in Raleigh
Raleigh offers a moderate cost of living compared to major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles or New York. This balance makes plumber salaries go further in terms of quality of life.
What This Means for Plumbers
Housing is more affordable than in larger coastal cities
Local salaries adjust to regional costs
Plumbers can achieve a strong standard of living without excessive expenses
This balance attracts many skilled tradespeople to Raleigh.
Plumber Salary Comparison: Raleigh vs. Related Cities (2026)
Understanding how plumber wages compare across cities can help gauge local competitiveness.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | $66,000–$75,000 |
| Charlotte, NC | $63,000–$72,000 |
| Durham, NC | $65,000–$74,000 |
| Atlanta, GA | $70,000–$80,000 |
| Nashville, TN | $68,000–$78,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $67,000–$77,000 |
| Miami, FL | $72,000–$82,000 |
Raleigh’s plumber salaries remain competitive with similar-sized cities, particularly in the Southeast.
Job Outlook for Plumbers
The job outlook for plumbers in Raleigh remains bright through 2030 and beyond.
Reasons the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade with stable demand
Limited risk of automation
High replacement need as older plumbers retire
Ongoing construction and renovation projects
Plumbing is widely regarded as one of the more recession-resistant careers available today.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in Raleigh in 2026?
Yes. Plumbing offers:
Solid salaries with potential to grow
Little to no college debt compared to other careers
Strong job security in varied economic conditions
Ability to own a business or work independently
Opportunities for specialization and certification
For those interested in hands-on work with tangible results, plumbing in Raleigh represents a strong career choice.
Final Thoughts
The plumber salary in Raleigh, NC in 2026 reflects a healthy and growing industry with competitive wages and strong job security. Whether new to the trade or a seasoned professional, plumbers in Raleigh have opportunities to advance, earn higher pay, and build long-term careers. With excellent benefits, steady demand, and room for specialization, a plumbing career in Raleigh continues to deliver real value and opportunities for growth.