The big picture: The average annual salary for plumbers in the United States is projected to be $64,810 as of June 2026, according to Salary.com data. This figure highlights the ongoing value and compensation trends within skilled trades.

Why it matters: This data is crucial for staffing firms, talent acquisition executives, and HR leaders to benchmark compensation, attract essential skilled trades professionals, and develop effective talent retention strategies.

Between the lines:

• The national average pay for plumbers is projected at $64,810 annually.
• Salaries can range widely, from $48,119 to $81,626, influenced by education, certifications, additional skills, and experience levels.

Staffing & HR impact: Staffing agencies must align their pay scales with these projections to remain competitive in recruiting skilled trades talent, directly impacting recruiter mobility and gross margins. HR departments need to review compensation structures to attract and retain essential blue-collar workers.

The bottom line: Competitive compensation remains a critical factor in addressing the persistent demand for skilled trades professionals across the U.S.