How to Become a Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in California
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in California earn a median salary of $68,390/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters takes home approximately $3,082/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters can afford in California
Becoming a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in California
Meet education requirements
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves apprenticeship in California. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 45,460 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $90K | $43.37/hr | 2,230 |
| Vallejo | $77K | $37.17/hr | 450 |
| Napa | $76K | $36.65/hr | 130 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $72K | $34.47/hr | 7,090 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $71K | $34.31/hr | 860 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $69K | $33.34/hr | 340 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $66K | $31.79/hr | 5,530 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $66K | $31.71/hr | 660 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $65K | $31.3/hr | 13,440 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $65K | $31.16/hr | 80 |
| Salinas | $65K | $31.05/hr | 380 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $64K | $30.67/hr | 3,370 |
| Visalia | $63K | $30.14/hr | 430 |
| El Centro | $63K | $30.07/hr | 160 |
| Fresno | $62K | $29.8/hr | 1,030 |
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary range in California
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters make in California?▼
The median plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters salary in California is $68,390 per year ($32.88/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $62,970. Salaries range from $45,480 to $126,790.
What are the requirements to become a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in California?▼
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $68,390, a plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in California would take home approximately $4,494/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($90,220), Vallejo ($77,310), Napa ($76,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $68,390 salary, this means roughly $2,569/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.