Plumbing remains a strong career choice with stable demand, especially in cities like St. Paul, Minnesota. In 2026, plumbers in the Twin Cities area continue to earn competitive wages compared with national averages, thanks to steady construction activity, infrastructure needs, and specialized skill requirements.
This comprehensive article covers the average salary range, how experience affects earnings, key factors influencing pay, benefits, job market trends, education and certifications, and how St. Paul compares with nearby cities.
Plumber Salary Overview in St. Paul, MN (2026)
Plumber wages often vary significantly based on experience, employer type, and licensing level. Recent data shows that plumbers in the St. Paul area generally earn above the national average.
Estimated Salary Range
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $35,000 – $50,000 | ~$17 – $24 |
| Journeyman | $78,000 – $119,000 | ~$38 – $57 |
| Senior / Master | $95,000 – $130,000+ | ~$46 – $63+ |
| Government / High Contract | $100,000 – $125,000+ | ~$48 – $60+ |
Typical hourly rates:
Overall plumbers in St. Paul often earn around $45 per hour on average.
Some municipal roles list hourly wages near $58/hr (~$121,600/year).
Salary by Experience
Experience plays a major role in how much plumbers earn in St. Paul.
Entry-Level / Apprentice Plumbers
Most plumbers start as apprentices.
Apprentices earn lower rates while gaining hands-on skill and training.
Typical earnings range: $35,000–$50,000/year (~$17–$24/hr).
Apprenticeships often combine on-the-job training with classroom education, enabling faster wage growth.
Journeyman Plumbers
After apprenticeship, plumbers can become journeymen.
Median wages for journeyman plumbers in St. Paul are near $96,000/year.
Journeymen handle most service calls, installations, and commercial work independently.
Experienced / Master Plumbers
With several years of experience and additional certifications, plumbers can negotiate higher pay.
Senior plumbers or those with specialized expertise often exceed $100,000/year, especially with overtime and advanced contracts.
Key Factors That Influence Plumber Earnings
Several variables affect plumber compensation in St. Paul:
Licensing & Certifications
Journeyman and Master Licenses significantly boost wages.
Additional certifications (like backflow prevention or gas fitting) open more specialized and higher‑paying jobs.
Employer Type
Municipal government or utility positions often offer high base pay plus excellent benefits.
Union jobs typically pay more and include strong benefits compared with non‑union roles.
Work Setting
Residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing each have different pay norms.
Emergency repair and 24/7 service calls often command premium pay due to urgent service requirements.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While plumbing requires no traditional four‑year degree, formal training and certifications dramatically influence pay:
Common Credentials
State Journeyman Plumber License
Master Plumber License
Backflow Prevention Certification
Medical Gas Piping Certificate
OSHA or Safety Training Certifications
Completing a registered apprenticeship program often accelerates wage growth and prepares plumbers for advanced licensing.
Job Market Trends in St. Paul (2026)
The job market for plumbers in St. Paul and the broader Twin Cities area continues to be strong:
Employment Drivers
Renovation and construction boom in urban housing and commercial spaces.
Aging infrastructure increasing demand for repair, relining, and pipe replacement.
Regional growth supports year‑round demand for plumbing services.
Supply and Demand
Plumbers remain in high demand, with many experienced tradespeople retiring, creating openings for new workers. Minnesota’s relatively high average pay attracts talent, leading to steady job postings.
Benefits of Being a Plumber in St. Paul
Beyond competitive salaries, plumbers often receive a range of benefits:
Common Benefits
Health insurance coverage
Retirement plans and pensions (especially union or government jobs)
Paid vacation and sick leave
Overtime and premium pay
Job stability during economic fluctuations
The combination of good benefits and stable demand makes plumbing an attractive long‑term career.
Salary Comparison: St. Paul vs Other Cities
Plumber salaries can vary within the region:
| City | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| South Saint Paul, MN | ~$55/hr |
| St. Paul, MN | ~$45/hr |
| Minneapolis, MN | ~$42/hr |
| Minnesota overall | ~$37.50/hr |
Key takeaway:
St. Paul generally pays higher than state averages and slightly above neighboring Minneapolis, while surrounding suburbs like South Saint Paul can offer even higher hourly rates.
Cost of Living and Salary in St. Paul
While St. Paul’s cost of living is moderate compared with coastal metros, plumbing salaries in the area are strong enough to afford a comfortable standard of living, especially for licensed and experienced plumbers.
With salaries often surpassing $90,000–$100,000/year for journeyman and master plumbers, trade professionals can live well while enjoying good job security.
Job Outlook: Plumbing Careers in 2026 and Beyond
The job outlook for plumbing professionals in St. Paul remains positive:
Reasons for Growth
Continued residential and commercial construction projects
Stable demand in repair and maintenance segments
Infrastructure upgrades across public and private sectors
Plumbing is considered a recession‑resilient trade, as water, sanitation, and heating needs persist irrespective of economic cycles.
Is Plumbing a Good Career in St. Paul?
Absolutely. Plumbing offers:
High earning potential with trade credentials
Growth opportunities through experience and licensing
Stable job market and benefits
Opportunity to start your own business or contract work
For individuals who enjoy hands‑on work, problem‑solving, and steady demand, plumbing is a rewarding career choice in the St. Paul area.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, plumber salaries in St. Paul, MN remain strong and competitive compared with national and statewide averages. With solid benefits, stable demand, and clear paths for advancement, plumbing provides a reliable and lucrative career for workers at all stages—from apprentices to master plumbers. Whether you’re starting out or advancing your trade, St. Paul offers real value and opportunity for plumbing professionals.