Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 455,940 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters, and they earn a median of $62,970/year. The range runs from $41K to $105K. Illinois pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters start around $41K. The gap between that and the median ($63K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $105K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $96K | 18,730 |
| Oregon | $93K | 6,080 |
| Minnesota | $83K | 8,520 |
| Massachusetts | $83K | 15,670 |
| Alaska | $83K | 870 |
| District of Columbia | $82K | 640 |
| Washington | $79K | 12,210 |
| Hawaii | $79K | 2,640 |
| Wisconsin | $79K | 9,120 |
| New York | $78K | 22,630 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters make?▼
The median plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters salary in the United States is $62,970 per year ($30/hour). Entry-level positions start around $40,670, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,150.
What education do you need to become a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
What are the highest paying states for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?▼
The highest paying states for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are Illinois ($96,200), Oregon ($93,110), Minnesota ($83,280), Massachusetts ($83,260), Alaska ($83,090). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.