Plumber Salary in Milwaukee
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Plumbing · COL Index: 96
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $38,358 | $39,956 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $45,681 | $47,584 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $59,307 | $61,778 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $70,953 | $73,909 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $85,737 | $89,309 |
What Plumbers Make in Milwaukee
A plumber in Milwaukee, WI earns a median salary of $59,307 per year. The $47,379 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Milwaukee's cost-of-living index of 96 means that $59,307 here has the same purchasing power as $61,778 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Milwaukee a solid market for take-home pay.
Plumbers in Milwaukee typically complete a 4-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($38,358) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $59,307 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 74 (B), this trade-city combination rates as strong for earning potential relative to local living costs.