Plumber Salary in Massachusetts (2025)
Plumbers in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $75,400 per year, or $36.27/hr. The state has roughly 11,004 plumber jobs with a projected growth rate of 6.5% over the next decade.
Plumber Pay by Experience Level in Massachusetts
Where you are in your career makes a big difference. Apprentices in Massachusetts start lower but can expect significant raises as they move toward journeyman and master credentials.
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $21.76/hr | $45,300/yr |
| Journeyman | $36.27/hr | $75,400/yr |
| Master | $47.15/hr | $98,100/yr |
| Foreman | $50.78/hr | $105,600/yr |
Apprentice
Hourly
$21.76
Annual
$45,300
Journeyman
Hourly
$36.27
Annual
$75,400
Master
Hourly
$47.15
Annual
$98,100
Foreman
Hourly
$50.78
Annual
$105,600
Union vs. Non-Union Plumber Pay in Massachusetts
Union membership can have a major impact on your take-home pay in Massachusetts. The numbers below compare average hourly rates for union and non-union plumbers in the state.
Union vs. Non-Union Pay
Average hourly rate for plumbers
Union plumbers earn $9.43/hr more (26.8% premium)
Highest-Paying Cities for Plumbers in Massachusetts
Metro areas tend to pay more due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Here are the top-paying cities for plumbers in Massachusetts.
| Rank | City / Metro Area | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 | Boston | $39.90/hr | $83,000 |
Massachusetts vs. National Average
How does Massachusetts stack up against the rest of the country? Here is a side-by-side look at average hourly pay for plumbers.
Massachusetts vs. National Average
Average hourly rate comparison
Massachusetts pays $7.77/hr more than the national average (+27.3%)
Overtime Earnings Potential
Many plumbers in Massachusetts earn well above their base salary thanks to overtime. At the median rate of $36.27/hr, overtime pay (1.5x) works out to roughly $54.41/hr. Working just 10 hours of OT per week at that rate adds about $28,300 to your annual income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plumber salaries in Massachusetts vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level plumbers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level plumbers in Massachusetts typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union plumbers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified plumber depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Plumber work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The Massachusetts job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified plumbers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a plumber's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.
Major metropolitan areas in Massachusetts tend to pay plumbers 5-15% above the state average due to higher cost of living and greater demand. Check our city-level salary data for specific figures in your area.
Sources & Methodology
Salary data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program. Data reflects May 2024 estimates, the most recent available. Figures represent base pay before overtime, bonuses, or benefits.