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Plumber, Apprentice Salary in the United States

How much does a Plumber, Apprentice make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Plumber, Apprentice in the United States is $46,000 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.

However, a Plumber, Apprentice's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $55,170
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $42,300 to $50,800
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $38,931

Key Factors That Influence Plumber, Apprentice Salaries

A Plumber, Apprentice's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Plumber, Apprentices

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $58,000
  • San Francisco: $57,400
  • Oakland: $56,200

Plumber, Apprentice Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Plumber, Apprentice salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $51,407. While startup companies pay approximate $43,485.

Plumber, Apprentice Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $43,485
Growth Stage 51~500 $45,990
Established 501~5000 $49,640
Enterprise 5000+ $51,407

Plumber, Apprentice Salary by Industry: Top Paying Sectors

For Plumber, Apprentice roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 41% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Internet and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Plumber, Apprentice positions in Transportation or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Plumber, Apprentice as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.

The top paying industries for a Plumber, Apprentice

Industry Sector Average Annual Salary Average Hourly Rate Pay vs.Avg
Internet$55,200$27.020%
Financial Services$52,900$25.015%
Software & Networking$52,900$25.015%
Biotechnology$51,520$25.012%
Healthcare$51,520$25.012%

Plumber, Apprentice Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Plumber, Apprentice's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$42,300
Average $46,000/year
$50,800
$3,525
Average $3,833/month
$4,233
$813
Average $885/week
$977
$20
Average $22/hour
$24
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $50,800 $4,233 $977 $24
Average $46,000 $3,833 $885 $22
25th Percentile $42,300 $3,525 $813 $20

Plumber, Apprentice Salary Growth & Career Path

For a Plumber, Apprentice, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Plumber, Journeyman role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $65,010 - a projected growth of 41% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Plumber, Apprentice

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Plumber, Apprentice

Here are companies hiring for Plumber, Apprentice and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Plumber, Apprentice

1. What industry pays the highest salary for Plumber, Apprentice?

The Internet industry offers the highest average compensation for Plumber, Apprentice roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.

2. Do plumbers work 7 days a week?

A normal workday for a plumber is between 8-10 hours, typically spanning 4-5 days a week. Plumbers can choose flexible schedules, such as working four ten-hour days, which allows for three days off. Salaries for plumbers range from a minimum of $40,400 to a mid-level of $46,100, with a maximum of $52,500, reflecting their skills and experience.

3. What does apprentice plumber mean?

An apprentice plumber is an individual training to become a plumber, working under the supervision of a licensed plumber. They handle basic plumbing tasks independently while assisting with more complex jobs. The salary for an apprentice plumber typically ranges from $40,400 to $52,500, with a mid-salary of $46,100.

4. Is plumbing the highest paid trade?

While plumbing can be a lucrative trade, it may not be the highest paid. Plumbers earn between $40,400 and $52,500 annually, with a mid-salary of $46,100. Other trades, like aircraft mechanics, can exceed $100,000, making them potentially more profitable. However, plumbers can still earn a solid income, especially in high-cost urban areas.

5. Why are plumbers so highly paid?

Plumbers are well-compensated due to their specialized skills and the demand for their services. With experience, they can earn between $40,400 and $52,500, with a median salary of $46,100. Master plumbers can supervise others and run their own businesses, further increasing their earning potential as they gain expertise in the field.

6. How much do plumbing interns make?

Plumbing apprentices typically earn between $40,400 and $52,500 annually, with a median salary of around $46,100. This reflects a more structured pay scale compared to general intern wages, which can vary widely.

7. Is apprenticeship worth it?

Whether an apprenticeship is worth your time depends on your career goals and situation. Consider the benefits and drawbacks before proceeding. You'll earn a salary ranging from $40,400 to $52,500 while gaining valuable experience and training, avoiding student loan debt. This practical approach can lead to a rewarding career in plumbing.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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