Plumber in Bloomington, MN

The Salary Picture: Where Bloomington Stands

As a plumber in the Twin Cities metro, you’re looking at a solid middle-class wage with one of the most stable job markets in the country. The median salary for a plumber in Bloomington, MN is $64,205/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $30.87/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $63,350/year, but the real story is in the local demand and cost structure.

Bloomington sits at the heart of the Twin Cities metro, a 70-square-mile city with a unique position. It’s anchored by the Minnesota River to the south and the MSP International Airport to the north, creating a mix of dense commercial corridors, sprawling residential neighborhoods, and major corporate campuses. This geography is a plumber’s playground. You’re not just fixing drips in a single-family home; you’re servicing the HVAC-R systems in the Mall of America’s 2.5 million square feet, the complex water infrastructure at the Minnesota Twins’ Target Field (just minutes away), and the specialized medical gas lines at Fairview Southdale Hospital.

The job market reflects this demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and state data, there are approximately 174 plumbing jobs in the Bloomington metro area. The 10-year job growth for plumbers is projected at a robust 6%, outpacing many other trades. This isn't just about new construction; a significant portion comes from the aging infrastructure of the city, built up during its boom years from the 1960s to the 1990s. These homes and commercial buildings are now hitting the age where major repipes, sewer line replacements, and water heater upgrades are inevitable.

Here’s how salary breaks down by experience level in the local market:

Experience Level	Annual Salary	Hourly Rate	Local Context
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$48,000 - $54,000	$23 - $26	Apprentice roles, service tech trainees. Often with larger firms in Bloomington's commercial corridor.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$62,000 - $72,000	$30 - $35	Licensed journeyman, running service calls for residential and light commercial. The "median" sweet spot.
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$73,000 - $85,000	$35 - $41	Master plumber, project lead, specializing in commercial or medical gas. Often union (UA Local 34) benefits.
Expert (15+ yrs)	$86,000+	$41+	Business owner, inspector, high-end custom home specialist, or union foreman. Top earners can exceed $95,000.

Comparing to Other Minnesota Cities:

• Minneapolis/St. Paul: Salaries are nearly identical (median ~$65,000), but the commute from Bloomington is easy via I-494, I-35W, or the Blue Line light rail. Bloomington offers a slightly lower cost of living than downtown Minneapolis.
• St. Cloud (~70 miles NW): Salaries are about 5-10% lower ($58,000-$60,000), with less commercial demand.
• Rochester (Home of Mayo Clinic): Similar salaries to the Twin Cities, but the job market is smaller and more focused on medical and institutional work.
• Duluth: Salaries are lower (~$61,000), and the job market is tighter, with more seasonal variation.

Insider Tip: The highest earners in Bloomington aren't just technicians; they're problem-solvers who understand the local code and climate. Knowing the specific requirements for freeze-proofing exterior hose bibs in a Minnesota winter, or navigating the City of Bloomington’s permit process for a commercial tenant improvement, makes you invaluable. The union, UA Local 34, which covers the Twin Cities metro, has a strong presence and sets wage and benefit packages that often exceed the median salary, especially for journeymen and masters.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. The median salary of $64,205 is a gross figure. In Minnesota, you’re looking at federal, state, and FICA taxes. A rough estimate for a single filer would be about 22-25% in effective taxes, leaving you with a net annual income of roughly $48,000 - $50,000 (about $4,000 - $4,160 per month).

Now, factor in housing. The average 1BR rent in Bloomington is $1,327/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 104.5 (4.5% higher than the U.S. average). This is driven primarily by housing costs. Let’s break down a monthly budget for a mid-career plumber earning the median salary:

Monthly Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Income (After Taxes)	~$4,100	Based on median salary, single filer.
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,327	A decent 1BR in a safe area.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	$200	MN winters mean higher heating bills.
Groceries/Food	$450	Moderate budget for one.
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assuming a modest car loan/full coverage.
Gas/Transport	$180	Bloomington is car-dependent, but commute is short.
Health Insurance	$250	If not fully covered by employer/union.
Retirement/401(k)	$325	5% of gross salary is a good start.
Misc. (Phone, Fun, etc.)	$350	Buffer for entertainment, clothes, etc.
TOTAL EXPENSES	$3,532
Remaining Surplus	~$568

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, but with caution. The median home price in Bloomington is around $400,000. A 20% down payment is $80,000. On a $64,205 salary, a mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be roughly $2,200/month, which is about 41% of your net income—above the recommended 30%. However, a dual-income household or climbing to the senior level ($75,000+) makes homeownership very feasible. Many plumbers in the area buy in more affordable neighboring cities like Richfield or Edina, or wait until they’re in a senior role. The surplus of ~$568/month can be aggressively saved for a down payment, especially if you leverage union benefits which often include annuities or strong 401(k) matches.

Where the Jobs Are: Bloomington's Major Employers

Bloomington’s economy is a trifecta of aviation, retail, and healthcare, creating diverse plumbing opportunities beyond standard residential service.

1. Mall of America (MOA): The largest mall in the U.S. employs a dedicated facilities team. Plumbers here handle everything from daily maintenance in over 500 stores to the massive water features and HVAC systems. Hiring is steady due to constant turnover and expansion projects. Look for jobs posted under "MOA Facilities Maintenance."
2. MSP International Airport (Terminal 1 & 2): As a federal facility, plumbing work here is often done by contractor firms with security clearances. The work is specialized (de-icing fluid systems, hydronic heating for runways, complex medical gas lines for employee clinics). It’s a high-paying, stable niche.
3. Health Systems (Fairview & Allina): Fairview Southdale Hospital in nearby Edina (just 5 minutes from Bloomington) and Allina’s United Hospital in St. Paul are massive employers. They need plumbers for medical gas systems (oxygen, vacuum, nitrous oxide), sterilized water systems, and 24/7 emergency response. These jobs often come with excellent benefits and are unionized with Local 34.
4. Commercial Construction & Contracting Firms: Bloomington has a dense corridor of office parks and light industrial zones. Major local contractors like R.J. O’Brien or Dunham (based in the area) frequently hire for commercial projects. This is where you find journeyman and master plumber roles for new builds and renovations.
5. Public Institutions: The City of Bloomington itself and the Bloomington Public Schools district are perpetual employers for municipal and school facility plumbing. These are government jobs with strong pensions, but hiring can be slow and competitive.
6. Residential Service Companies: National franchises (Mr. Rooter, Roto-Rooter) and local stalwarts like B & D Plumbing or Pope Plumbing (serving the south metro) are always hiring service techs. This is the best path for someone starting out and building a client base.

Hiring Trends: Right now, the biggest demand is for journeymen plumbers with commercial experience. The residential market is steady, but the commercial sector—especially healthcare and airport-related projects—is booming. Union shops are actively recruiting to meet project deadlines, often offering sign-on bonuses for licensed journeymen.

Getting Licensed in MN

Minnesota has a clear, state-regulated path to licensure. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) oversees all plumbing licenses.

The Pathway:

1. Apprenticeship (4-5 years): You must complete a state-registered apprenticeship program. This typically involves 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed plumber and 144 hours of classroom instruction per year. The UA Local 34 Plumbers and Pipefitters apprenticeship is the gold standard in the metro, offering structured training, competitive wages (starting around $18-20/hr), and full benefits. You can also find non-union programs through community colleges or individual employers.
2. Journeyman License: After completing your apprenticeship hours and passing the state exam, you become a Journeyman Plumber. The exam covers the Minnesota Plumbing Code, which is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC) but with state-specific amendments. The exam fee is $150.
3. Master Plumber License: Requires 4 years as a journeyman (or 2 years with a related degree) and passing a more advanced exam. Master plumbers can pull permits and run their own businesses. The exam fee is $200.

Timeline and Costs:

• Total Time to Journeyman: 4-5 years (apprenticeship).
• Total Cost: Apprenticeship tuition is often $0 if you get into a union or employer-sponsored program. You’ll pay for your own tools (initial investment of $1,000-$2,000) and exam fees ($150 total). Non-union community college programs might cost $2,000-$5,000 in tuition.
• Reciprocity: Minnesota has reciprocity with several states (like Iowa, North Dakota, and Wisconsin), so if you’re already licensed elsewhere, you may be able to test without a full apprenticeship. Check the MN DLI website for the latest reciprocity agreements.

Insider Tip: Start your apprenticeship application early. The UA Local 34 apprenticeship program is competitive and has a waiting list. The application period is typically in the spring. Having a clean driving record and basic math skills (algebra, geometry) is a significant advantage.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Bloomington is divided by major highways (I-494, I-35W), creating distinct neighborhoods with different vibes and rental costs.

1. Normandale Lake / South Loop (Central Bloomington):

   • Commute: Excellent. You can reach MOA, MSP Airport, and most commercial corridors in 5-10 minutes. Direct access to I-35W.
   • Lifestyle: Urban-suburban mix. Newer apartments and townhomes surround Normandale Lake. Walkable to restaurants and shops. Popular with young professionals.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,600 for a 1BR.

2. Old Shakopee Road Area (South Bloomington):

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to central Bloomington. A bit more car-dependent but less traffic.
   • Lifestyle: Established residential neighborhoods with single-family homes, great parks (Bloomington Family YMCA), and a quieter feel. Good for families.
   • Rent Estimate (for a 1BR apt): $1,200 - $1,400. More affordable than the core.

3. Bloomington Central (Near Hy-Vee & 98th St):

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most jobs. Central location.
   • Lifestyle: The "original" suburban Bloomington. Older apartments and condos, but well-maintained. Very convenient for shopping (Target, Cub Foods) and dining.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,450 for a 1BR.

4. East Bloomington (Near Minnesota River & Cedar Ave):

   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to central Bloomington. Can be congested on Cedar Ave.
   • Lifestyle: More rural-suburban feel. Close to the Minnesota River Valley for outdoor activities. More affordable housing options, but fewer apartment complexes.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300 for a 1BR.

5. Lyndale Avenue Corridor (North of I-494):

   • Commute: 10 minutes to MSP Airport, 15-20 to downtown Minneapolis. Direct access to I-494.
   • Lifestyle: Light industrial and commercial mixed with older residential areas. More gritty, less "suburban," but very affordable and convenient for airport workers.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,250 for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Bloomington, your career trajectory is defined by specialization and licensure.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest pay bumps come from niches:

  • Medical Gas: Certified medical gas installers can earn 10-20% more than general plumbers. Required for hospital work.
  • Fire Protection: Sprinkler fitters (a related pipefitter trade) are in high demand, especially for commercial projects. Union scale is high.
  • Commercial Service: Technicians who can troubleshoot complex boiler and hydronic systems for MOA or corporate campuses command premium rates.
  • Estimation/Project Management: Moving from the field to a desk job as a project manager or estimator for a contractor can increase salary to the $80,000 - $95,000 range, but requires strong communication and computer skills.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Field to Office: Apprentice > Journeyman > Service Tech > Project Manager/Estimator.
  2. Field to Business: Journeyman > Master Plumber > Start Your Own Business. Many small, successful service companies in Bloomington are owned by former union plumbers.
  3. Field to Specialization: Journeyman > Master > Inspector (for the city or state) or Instructor (at a community college or union training center).

• 10-Year Outlook (The 6% Growth): This growth is real, driven by retirements of an aging baby-boomer workforce and steady demand from commercial and residential development. However, automation and new materials (like PEX) may reduce the sheer volume of labor needed per job, but increase the need for technicians who can install and service these systems. The plumber who embraces new technology—like thermal imaging for leak detection or advanced water filtration systems—will be the most secure.

The Verdict: Is Bloomington Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: Diverse economy (MOA, MSP, Healthcare) means less volatility.	High Cost of Living: Rent and home prices are above national average, especially for a single income.
Competitive Wages: Median salary $64,205 is strong, with union benefits pushing total compensation higher.	Harsh Winters: Extreme cold (-20°F) makes outdoor work challenging. Frozen pipes are a constant winter call.
Central Location: Easy commute to both Minneapolis and St. Paul job sites.	Traffic Congestion: I-494 and I-35W can be heavily congested during rush hour.
Strong Union Presence (UA Local 34): Good wages, benefits, and training opportunities.	Competitive Apprenticeships: Getting into the best training programs requires planning and persistence.
Good Work-Life Balance: Most jobs are local; you’re not traveling for weeks on end.	Car Dependency: Public transit is limited for getting to job sites; a reliable vehicle is a must.

Final Recommendation: Bloomington, MN is an **excellent choice for a plumber who values stability,