Plumber Salary in San Francisco
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Plumbing · COL Index: 190
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $55,761 | $29,348 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $65,535 | $34,492 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $86,700 | $45,632 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $102,559 | $53,978 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $125,593 | $66,102 |
What Plumbers Make in San Francisco
A plumber in San Francisco, CA earns a median salary of $86,700 per year. The $69,832 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
San Francisco's cost-of-living index of 190 means that $86,700 here has the same purchasing power as $45,632 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, San Francisco offers strong demand and typically more overtime opportunities.
Plumbers in San Francisco typically complete a 4-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($55,761) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $86,700 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 63 (C), this trade-city combination rates as average for earning potential relative to local living costs.