If you're considering a plumbing career or curious about plumber earnings in California, you're in the right place. In this 2025 guide, we'll dive deep into exactly how much plumbers make across California, covering apprentice, journeyman, and master plumber salaries, including hourly and yearly earnings.
Average Plumber Salary in California (2025)
As of 2025, the average plumber in California earns approximately $75,000 per year, or around $36 per hour. Salaries vary significantly depending on experience, certification, and geographic location. Urban areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego typically offer higher wages compared to rural regions.
Apprentice Plumber Salaries in California
Plumbing apprentices in California typically start between $20 to $26 per hour. Annually, apprentices earn roughly $41,000 to $54,000, depending on their employer and the specific training program. Salaries usually increase incrementally as apprentices gain skills and experience.
Journeyman Plumber Earnings in CA
Journeyman plumbers, who have completed their apprenticeship and passed licensing exams, make approximately $35 to $45 per hour in California. Their annual earnings range from about $73,000 to $94,000, with urban regions often paying more due to higher living costs and demand.
Master Plumber Salaries in California
Master plumbers, with years of experience and advanced certifications, earn the highest salaries. In 2025, a master plumber in California typically earns between $50 to $70 per hour, translating to about $104,000 to $145,000 annually. Master plumbers often run their own businesses, significantly influencing their income potential.
Regional Salary Differences in California
Plumber salaries vary considerably across California. Metropolitan areas like San Francisco and Silicon Valley generally offer the highest wages, averaging around $95,000 annually for journeymen. Los Angeles plumbers average around $82,000 annually, whereas Central Valley areas like Fresno or Bakersfield tend to average around $65,000 annually.
How to Maximize Your Salary as a Plumber in CA
Earning potential increases significantly with certifications, experience, and specialization. Plumbers specializing in complex systems, commercial plumbing, or emerging technologies such as green plumbing solutions often command higher wages. Joining unions, obtaining master certifications, or establishing your own plumbing business can further boost your income.
Conclusion
Plumbing remains a highly rewarding and lucrative career path in California. Whether you're starting as an apprentice or aiming for master plumber status, consistent growth and specialized skills can significantly enhance your earning potential. Stay updated with current industry standards to ensure competitive compensation in the dynamic California plumbing market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the hourly rate for plumbers in California in 2025?
In 2025, plumbers in California typically earn between $20 per hour for apprentices and up to $70 per hour for master plumbers.
Do plumbers make good money in California?
Yes, plumbers in California are among the highest-paid nationwide, with average salaries significantly above the national average due to high demand and cost of living.
Which California city pays plumbers the highest salaries?
San Francisco and Silicon Valley typically offer the highest salaries, with journeyman plumbers averaging around $95,000 annually as of 2025.
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