Texas plumbers are in exceptional demand and earn strong wages across the state. A combination of massive residential construction, one of the fastest-growing populations in the US, semiconductor and data center construction, and aging infrastructure in legacy communities all drive plumbing demand that significantly exceeds the available licensed workforce. Texas no state income tax makes licensed plumber wages — $26-$42/hr for journeymen — among the most competitive in the country in net take-home terms.
Plumber Salary in Texas by City
- Houston: Journeyman plumbers earn $26-$44/hr. Industrial pipefitters at Ship Channel earn $32-$50/hr.
- Dallas-Fort Worth: Journeyman plumbers earn $26-$42/hr.
- Austin: Journeyman plumbers earn $26-$40/hr. Active residential boom.
- San Antonio: Journeyman plumbers earn $22-$36/hr.
- Midland-Odessa: Industrial pipefitters earn $28-$44/hr.
- El Paso: Journeyman plumbers earn $20-$32/hr.
Plumber Salary in Texas by License Level
- Apprentice plumber: $16-$22/hr
- Tradesman Plumber-Limited: $18-$26/hr
- Journeyman plumber: $26-$42/hr
- Master plumber: $34-$52/hr or contractor income
- Plumbing contractor (Texas): $80,000-$250,000+/yr
Plumber Salary in Texas by Specialization
- Residential new construction: $20-$30/hr
- Residential service and repair: $26-$38/hr
- Commercial plumbing: $28-$42/hr
- Industrial pipefitting (Houston Ship Channel): $32-$50/hr
- Semiconductor fab plumbing/pipefitting: $34-$52/hr
- Fire suppression sprinkler: $28-$40/hr
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average plumber salary in Texas?
The average journeyman plumber salary in Texas is approximately $26-$38/hr, or $54,000-$79,000/yr for full-time work. Top industrial pipefitters and semiconductor fab specialists earn $32-$52/hr. Texas no state income tax makes these wages highly competitive nationally.
How do I get a plumbing license in Texas?
Texas plumbing licensing is administered by TSBPE (Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners). You need to work as an apprentice, accumulate OJT hours (8,000 for journeyman), and pass the state exam. Specific hour requirements and exam content are on the TSBPE website. UA union apprenticeship programs provide a structured path to journeyman licensing.
Is there a plumber shortage in Texas?
Yes, severely. Texas construction boom and semiconductor fab development have created a plumber shortage that contractors describe as the worst they have seen in decades. Sign-on bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for licensed journeyman plumbers are common. Contractors are actively recruiting from other states.
What is industrial pipefitting in Houston?
Houston is home to one of the largest petrochemical and refining complexes in the world along the Houston Ship Channel. Industrial pipefitters working on these facilities install and maintain high-pressure process piping for chemical and petroleum production. ASME Section IX qualification is required. Industrial pipefitters in Houston earn $32-$50/hr, significantly above commercial plumber rates.
What is the plumbing market near the Samsung fab in Taylor TX?
Samsung is building a $17B+ semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor, Texas near Austin. Semiconductor fabs require ultra-pure water systems, specialized chemical distribution piping, and industrial process piping that requires the most qualified pipefitters. Plumbing and pipefitting work on the Samsung Taylor fab and related supply chain construction is paying $34-$52/hr for qualified workers.
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