How Much Does a Plumber Make in Texas?

Plumbing is one of the most essential trades in Texas, and for good reason. As the state experiences rapid population growth, the demand for skilled tradespeople has skyrocketed. New homes, commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects are popping up everywhere, and every single one of them needs a reliable plumbing system.

Due to this demand, more people are asking: How much does a plumber make in Texas? Answer depends on experience, location and type of work you do. In this guide, we will break properly what plumbers earn in Texas, which factors affect their salary, and how can you maximize your income in this rewarding career.

Texas is unique compared to other states not just in size, but in economic diversity. From booming metropolitan areas like Houston and Dallas to smaller rural towns, plumber pay rates can vary significantly. That’s why it’s important to understand the full picture before starting your plumbing career or making a move within the industry.

Average Plumber Salary in Texas

According to recent labor statistics, the average plumber salary in Texas is around $54,000 to $62,000 per year, which works out to about $26–$30 per hour. However, this is just the middle range. Some plumbers, especially those with advanced skills or operating their own businesses, earn well over $80,000 annually.

Here’s how Texas compares to the national average:

Texas Average: $54k–$62k/year
National Average: $58k–$66k/year

Texas plumbers earn slightly less than the national average on paper, but this difference is often offset by the state’s lower cost of living and no state income tax. That means more of your paycheck stays in your pocket compared to plumbers in high-tax states like California or New York.

Additionally, because the cost of doing business is lower in Texas, many self-employed plumbers can charge competitive rates while keeping overhead expenses manageable.

Salary by Experience Level

One of the biggest factors influencing plumber salaries in Texas is experience level. Here’s a breakdown:

Entry-Level Apprentice Plumber:
Starting out, an apprentice plumber in Texas can expect to earn $30,000–$38,000 per year ($14–$18/hour). Apprenticeships are paid training programs, so while the pay is lower, you’re gaining valuable skills without racking up student debt.
Journeyman Plumber:
After completing your apprenticeship and passing the licensing exam, your pay can jump significantly to $48,000–$65,000 annually ($23–$31/hour). Journeymen handle more complex jobs and often work independently on service calls.
Master Plumber:
Master plumbers those with extensive experience and advanced licensing earn $70,000–$90,000+ per year ($34–$43/hour). Many master plumbers operate their own businesses, set their own rates, and have the highest earning potential in the trade.

It’s worth noting that in high-demand areas, experienced master plumbers can break the six-figure mark, especially if they take on large commercial projects or emergency services.

Salary by Location in Texas

Texas is huge, and plumber salaries reflect local economic conditions. Urban areas tend to pay more due to higher demand and cost of living, while rural areas may offer lower rates but fewer expenses.

Here’s a snapshot:

City	Average Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Houston	$60,000–$75,000	$29–$36
Dallas-Fort Worth	$58,000–$72,000	$28–$35
Austin	$62,000–$78,000	$30–$38
San Antonio	$55,000–$68,000	$27–$33
Rural Texas Areas	$48,000–$60,000	$23–$29

Austin often leads in pay rates due to the city’s rapid tech-driven growth and higher housing costs, while Houston’s booming industrial and energy sectors keep demand steady for commercial and residential plumbing services.

Salary by Employer Type

Not all plumbing jobs are created equal. Who you work for in Texas plays a major role in your paycheck.

Union Plumbers:
Union plumbers typically earn higher wages and enjoy better benefits, with hourly rates often 10–20% above non-union counterparts.
Self-Employed Plumbers:
Running your own plumbing business can be extremely lucrative. Many owner-operators earn $80,000–$120,000+ per year, but keep in mind you’ll also be responsible for business expenses, taxes, and insurance.
Corporate/Government Jobs:
Working for municipalities, large construction companies, or government agencies offers stable pay and excellent benefits, but may not reach the high earnings of self-employment.

Factors That Influence Plumber Salaries in Texas

While location and experience are major salary drivers, other factors can significantly impact how much you make as a plumber in Texas.

1. Cost of Living in Your Area
Cities such as Austin, Dallas and Houston pay high wages due to increase in housing and living expenses. However, plumbers in rural areas can keep their income more due to low cost, even if their salary is small.

2. Demand for Plumbing Services
In fast-growing regions with new housing developments, the need for plumbers is constant. Texas’s expanding population fueled by people moving from other states keeps the demand for plumbers strong.

3. Specializations and Certifications
Plumbers that are experts of gas lines, medical gas systems, green plumbing solutions or backflow prevention, often earn high rates. Special training can be a game-changer for your income.

4. Type of Work Performed
Emergency repair plumbers, who respond to urgent calls at odd hours, often charge premium rates. Similarly, commercial plumbers working on large-scale projects typically earn more than those doing only residential repairs.

5. Reputation and Networking
A well-known plumber with a strong local reputation can command higher rates. Word-of-mouth referrals can be more valuable than advertising in Texas communities where trust plays a big role in hiring decisions.

Benefits & Perks Beyond Salary

When evaluating plumber pay in Texas, it’s important to look beyond the hourly wage or annual salary. Many employers offer benefits that significantly increase the total compensation package.

Health Insurance
Plumbers working for established companies often receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage. This can save thousands of dollars per year compared to buying insurance privately.
Retirement Plans
Employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as 401(k)s with matching contributions, help plumbers build long-term financial security.
Paid Time Off
Many plumbing companies in Texas offer vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays all of which add value to your compensation.
Overtime Pay & Bonuses
Plumbing is one of the few trades where overtime work is common. Plumbers who are willing to work weekends or handle emergency calls can significantly boost their earnings.
Tool Allowances & Continuing Education
Some employers provide allowances for tools, uniforms, or even continuing education courses to keep skills up to date.

Job Outlook for Plumbers in Texas

The job outlook for plumbers in Texas is extremely positive. According to projections from the Texas Workforce Commission, plumbing jobs are expected to grow by more than 14% over the next decade, which is higher than the national average.

Why the growth?

Population Boom: Texas is adding hundreds of thousands of residents each year.
Aging Infrastructure: Older neighborhoods and commercial buildings require constant plumbing updates.
Commercial Development: Expanding businesses and industries create steady demand for skilled plumbers.

In short, plumbing in Texas isn’t just a good job it’s a career path with long-term stability and plenty of advancement opportunities.

How to Become a Plumber in Texas

If you’re starting from scratch, becoming a plumber in Texas involves several key steps:

Step 1: High School Diploma or GED
While not mandatory, most apprenticeship programs require at least a basic education.

Step 2: Enroll in an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships typically last 4–5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom learning.

Step 3: Register with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
This is a mandatory step for anyone working toward a plumbing license.

Step 4: Complete Required Hours
You’ll need at least 8,000 hours of supervised work to qualify for the journeyman exam.

Step 5: Pass the Journeyman and Master Plumber Exams
After working as a journeyman for a set number of years, you can apply for the master plumber exam to increase your earning potential.

Tips for Increasing Your Plumbing Salary in Texas

If you’re already a plumber in Texas and want to earn more, here are strategies that work:

Specialize in High-Demand Skills: Tankless water heater installation, commercial piping, or medical gas certification can help you stand out.
Work in High-Paying Regions: Consider relocating to cities like Austin or Houston where rates are higher.
Start Your Own Business: While it comes with risks, being self-employed gives you control over your rates and workload.
Offer Emergency Services: Charge premium rates for after-hours or weekend work.
Build Your Reputation: Positive reviews and word-of-mouth can allow you to raise prices without losing customers.

Comparing Plumbing to Other Skilled Trades in Texas

Plumbing is one of several high-demand skilled trades in Texas, but how does it compare in terms of income and job stability?

Trade	Average Annual Salary (TX)	Job Growth
Plumber	$54,000–$62,000+	High (14% growth)
Electrician	$55,000–$65,000	High (8% growth)
HVAC Technician	$48,000–$58,000	Moderate (5% growth)
Welder	$45,000–$55,000	Variable

While electricians may have slightly higher average wages, plumbing offers a unique advantage: less seasonal slowdown. HVAC techs, for example, often see fluctuating workloads depending on weather conditions, whereas plumbing emergencies happen year-round.

Real-Life Plumber Salary Examples in Texas

Let’s look at a few real-world examples based on public job postings and interviews with Texas plumbers:

Case 1: Journeyman Plumber in Houston
Works for a commercial plumbing company, earns $34/hour, plus overtime that adds $12,000 annually. Total income: about $83,000/year.
Case 2: Self-Employed Master Plumber in Austin
Runs a two-person business specializing in tankless water heaters. Grosses $150,000/year, with net income after expenses around $95,000/year.
Case 3: Apprentice in San Antonio
First-year apprentice earning $17/hour, totaling about $35,000/year, while completing training for journeyman licensing.

These examples show how career stage, location, and business ownership affect income in the Texas plumbing market.

Challenges of Being a Plumber in Texas

Plumbing is a rewarding career, but it’s not without challenges especially in Texas.

Extreme Weather
Texas summers can be brutally hot, and many plumbing jobs require outdoor work or service in attics with poor ventilation.
Emergency Calls
Plumbing emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, meaning plumbers often work nights, weekends, and holidays.
Physically Demanding Work
Plumbing involves heavy lifting, awkward positions, and sometimes working in tight or dirty spaces.
Competition in Urban Areas
In large cities, the number of plumbing companies can make standing out difficult unless you build a strong local reputation.

Is Plumbing a Good Career in Texas?

Yes for many people, plumbing is an excellent career choice in Texas. The state’s population growth, strong construction industry, and low unemployment rate mean skilled tradespeople are in constant demand.

Pros:

Strong income potential
Job security
No college debt (apprenticeships are paid)
Opportunity for self-employment

Cons:

Physical demands
Long or irregular hours
Exposure to extreme weather conditions

For those willing to put in the work, plumbing in Texas offers both financial and career stability.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Plumbing in Texas is not only about fixing leaks, it is about making a career with real earning ability, job safety and development opportunities. Whether you make $ 17 per hour as a trainee or do your work for a master plumber that earns six figures, providing a clear route for business growth.

If you are considering becoming a plumber in Texas, focus on gaining experience, creating your reputation and discovery of special skills. The more you invest in your career, the greater your earning ability.

FAQs

1. What’s the highest-paying city for plumbers in Texas?
Austin often tops the list, followed closely by Houston, due to high demand and cost of living.

2. How long does it take to become a master plumber in Texas?
It typically takes 8–10 years, including apprenticeship and journeyman experience.

3. Do plumbers in Texas get paid overtime?
Yes, most plumbers receive overtime pay, especially for emergency or after-hours calls.

4. Can plumbers in Texas make six figures?
Absolutely especially self-employed master plumbers or those in high-demand specializations.

5. Is plumbing in Texas a good trade for career changers?
Yes, because apprenticeships are paid and the job market is strong, making it accessible for people entering later in life.