Florida licensed plumbers earn competitive wages with the added benefit of no state income tax. The state's construction boom, population growth, and aging infrastructure in legacy coastal communities all create plumbing demand that exceeds the available licensed workforce. Union plumbers in Miami and Tampa earn $32-$46/hr with full benefits. Here is a complete breakdown of plumber earnings across Florida.
Plumber Salary in Florida by City
- Miami (UA Local 630): $34-$48/hr journeyman union.
- Tampa (UA Local 821): $32-$46/hr journeyman union.
- Orlando (UA Local 123): $30-$44/hr journeyman union.
- Jacksonville (UA Local 234): $28-$42/hr journeyman union.
- Fort Lauderdale: $32-$46/hr.
- Non-union statewide: $24-$38/hr journeyman.
Plumber Salary in Florida by Experience and License
- Apprentice plumber: $16-$20/hr
- Journeyman plumber (0-3 years): $24-$34/hr
- Journeyman plumber (5+ years): $28-$42/hr
- Master plumber: $34-$50/hr or contractor business income
- Plumbing contractor: $80,000-$200,000+/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average plumber salary in Florida?
The average journeyman plumber salary in Florida is $28-$38/hr, or $58,000-$79,000/yr. Union plumbers in Miami and Tampa earn $32-$48/hr. Florida no-income-tax status makes these wages highly competitive nationally.
Is there a plumber shortage in Florida?
Yes severely. Florida construction boom has created one of the most acute plumber shortages in the country. Contractors offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for licensed journeymen. Florida Building Industry Association has documented the shortage extensively.
How do I become a licensed plumber in Florida?
Florida requires a Journeyman Plumber license from DBPR, which requires either 4 years of plumbing apprenticeship or 6 years of OJT. UA union apprenticeships in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville provide structured 5-year paths to journeyman licensing. After journeyman experience, you can pursue the Certified Plumbing Contractor license.
What UA unions are in Florida?
UA locals in Florida include Local 630 in Miami, Local 821 in Tampa, Local 123 in Orlando, Local 234 in Jacksonville, and others. Each operates free 5-year plumbing apprenticeship programs. UA journeyman wages in Florida are among the highest for non-union comparable markets.
What is the luxury plumbing market in South Florida?
South Florida's high-end residential market including Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Coral Gables creates demand for experienced plumbers who specialize in luxury fixtures, sophisticated water treatment systems, and custom installation. Luxury residential plumbers in South Florida charge premium rates and can earn $35-$50/hr or more as independent operators.
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