Plumber Salary in Raleigh
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Plumbing · COL Index: 100
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $33,932 | $33,932 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $45,053 | $45,053 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $56,029 | $56,029 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $69,864 | $69,864 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $84,143 | $84,143 |
What Plumbers Make in Raleigh
A plumber in Raleigh, NC earns a median salary of $56,029 per year. The $50,211 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Raleigh's cost-of-living index of 100 means that $56,029 here has the same purchasing power as $56,029 in an average-cost U.S. city. The relatively affordable cost of living makes Raleigh a solid market for take-home pay.
Plumbers in Raleigh typically complete a 4-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($33,932) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $56,029 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 71 (B), this trade-city combination rates as strong for earning potential relative to local living costs.