Top US Cities to Start Your Plumbing Career

If you’re preparing to start a career in plumbing, choosing the right city is just as important as getting the right training. From plumber wages, to job growth, to cost of living, where you live directly affects your earning potential and career success. Across the country, demand for plumbers in the USA continues to rise, but some cities provide better opportunities than others.

In this article, we’ll highlight the best cities to launch your plumbing career in the United States. We’ll explore where wages are highest, where job demand is growing, and where affordability makes your paycheck stretch further.

Why Location Matters in Plumbing

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $62,970 as of May 2024. But this figure only tells part of the story. In certain cities, wages soar well above the national average, while others offer affordable living costs that make moderate salaries go further.

For example, the national average plumber salary is around $63,215 per year (roughly $30/hour), based on Jobber’s Plumbing Industry Report. Top-tier plumbers can make over $114,000 annually, according to ServiceTitan. In fact, states like Illinois and Alaska report average salaries of about $97,000 and $80,554 respectively, as noted in Construction Coverage.

With this in mind, let’s look at the top U.S. cities to start your plumbing career right now if you want to make a good living.

1. Kokomo, Indiana

• Average Salary: $71,480 (23% above national average)
• Cost of Living: Roughly 22% below average
• Job Density: 211% more plumbers per capita than the average city

As highlighted by AdvisorSmith, Kokomo stands out as one of the best small cities for plumbing careers. Higher wages combined with an affordable cost of living mean you’ll keep more of what you earn. Plus, strong job density ensures plenty of opportunity for both new and experienced plumbers.

2. Huntington, West Virginia

• Average Salary: $85,050 (46% above national norm)
• Cost of Living: 18% below national average
• Job Growth: Consistently strong demand due to industrial economy

In Huntington, plumbers enjoy some of the highest wages in the country paired with below-average housing costs. AdvisorSmith notes that skilled trades are particularly high demand here, making it a great entry point for new professionals.

3. Weirton, West Virginia

• Average Salary: $68,480 (23% above national average)
• Cost of Living: 19% below national average
• Job Density: 118% more jobs per capita

Weirton offers a strong combination of affordability and opportunity. With a growing demand for skilled trades and higher-than-average wages, it’s an excellent city for those beginning a career as a plumber in America.

4. Peoria, Rockford, and Carbondale, Illinois

Illinois is consistently ranked among the top-paying states for plumbers. Three cities stand out in particular:

• Peoria: Average salary $76,580
• Rockford: Average salary $74,420
• Carbondale: Average salary $74,030

According to Construction Coverage, plumbers in Illinois often earn adjusted median salaries around $97,000 annually. With multiple cities offering both good wages and high job density, Illinois is one of the best regions to start a plumbing career.

5. Bremerton, Washington

• Average Salary: $63,970 (~10% above national average)
• Job Density: 331% more plumbers per capita than the national average
• Cost of Living: Slightly above average

Bremerton provides an attractive balance of job opportunities and competitive pay. With its proximity to Seattle, it offers a metropolitan lifestyle while still maintaining a strong local economy. AdvisorSmith ranks Bremerton highly for career density, making it a great option for ambitious newcomers.

6. Santa Cruz County, California

For those open to high-cost areas, Santa Cruz is one of the most lucrative places for plumbers.

• Average Salary: $87,719 (~39% above national average)
• Hourly Rate: About $42/hour
• Cost of Living: High, but offset by wages

According to ZipRecruiter’s plumber salary data, plumbers in Santa Cruz consistently earn among the highest wages in the U.S. While the cost of living is steep, those seeking maximum earning potential may find it worthwhile.

Side-by-Side Comparison

The National Outlook for Plumbers

The future looks bright for plumbers in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, plumbing jobs are expected to grow about 4% from 2024 to 2034, creating around 44,000 new openings each year.

Entry-level salaries typically range from $52,000 and $93,000, depending on region and license level, while specialized or senior roles can easily surpass six figures (Jobber).

This demand is driven by:

• Expanding construction markets
• Aging infrastructure requiring repair
• Rising focus on water efficiency and sustainability

Choosing the Best City for Your Plumbing Career

So, where should you launch your career as a plumber in America? It depends on your goals:

• Maximize Take-Home Pay: Kokomo and Huntington offer strong wages with affordable living.
• Access to Larger Markets: Illinois cities or Bremerton provide steady opportunities near metro areas.
• Top Earning Potential: Santa Cruz offers sky-high wages, though living costs may offset the benefits.

No matter where you choose, the industry outlook is stable, and skilled plumbers remain in high demand nationwide with high plumbing technician salaries being common.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to plumbing, location matters. By considering plumber wages, job density, and cost of living, you can make a smart decision about where to begin your career. Whether you settle in the Midwest, the East Coast, or along the Pacific, demand for plumbing professionals is growing, and your skills will always be valued.

Start Your Plumbing Career at NTI

If you’re ready to train for one of the most in-demand trades in the country, explore the plumbing technician training program at ntitraining.com. With the right education and the right city, your future as a successful plumber in America starts now. Contact us today to get started.