The Plumbers' Guide to Broomfield, CO: A Career Analyst's Perspective

If you're a plumber eyeing Broomfield, you're looking at a solid market in the heart of the Front Range. As someone who tracks the local economy, I can tell you this isn't Denver's shadow—it's a distinct, growing city with its own plumbing needs. Broomfield's mix of new subdivisions, aging infrastructure in older neighborhoods, and commercial growth means steady work. But let's get real about the numbers, the commute, and whether your paycheck can handle Colorado's cost of living.

This guide breaks down the plumbing career in Broomfield with cold, hard data and local insights you won't find in a generic job posting.

The Salary Picture: Where Broomfield Stands

Let's start with the paycheck. In Broomfield, the median salary for a plumber is $64,395/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.96/hour. This is actually slightly above the national average for plumbers, which sits at $63,350/year. It's a competitive market, but it's not the highest in Colorado.

Experience level is everything in the trades. Here's how pay typically breaks down in the Broomfield area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary (Broomfield)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $55,000	Assist with pipe installation, drain cleaning, basic repairs under supervision.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$60,000 - $72,000	Lead small projects, handle complex residential repairs, interpret blueprints.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$72,000 - $85,000	Supervise crews, bid on projects, specialize in commercial or high-end residential.
Expert/Owner (15+ years)	$85,000+	Business ownership, large-scale commercial contracts, code consultation.

Insider Tip: Broomfield's proximity to Boulder and Denver means you'll often find work that pays at the higher end of these ranges. Licensed journeyman plumbers with a clean driving record and good customer skills can command $35-$40/hour on commercial jobs.

Compared to other Colorado cities, Broomfield is a sweet spot:

• Denver: Median salary is similar (~$65,000), but the cost of living is higher, and competition is fiercer.
• Colorado Springs: Median is slightly lower (~$61,000), with more military-related housing work.
• Fort Collins: Median is around $63,000, with a strong focus on residential and university-related projects.
• Boulder: Median can be $67,000+, but the housing market is brutal for workers.

Broomfield offers a balance: decent pay without the extreme costs of Boulder or the intense competition of Denver.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be honest—Colorado isn't cheap. The cost of living index in Broomfield is 105.5 (US average = 100). The average 1BR rent is $1,835/month. So, what does a plumber earning the median salary of $64,395/year actually take home?

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Broomfield Plumber:

Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$5,366	($64,395 / 12)
Federal & State Taxes (Est.)	$1,250	~23% effective rate (CO has a flat 4.4% income tax)
Net Take-Home Pay	$4,116	After taxes
Rent (1BR Avg)	$1,835	44% of net income
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$200	Average for a 1BR
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Essential in a car-dependent suburb
Groceries	$350	For one person
Health Insurance (Employer)	$250	Pre-tax deduction
Retirement/401k (5%)	$268	Pre-tax deduction
Remaining Discretionary	$763	For gas, entertainment, savings, etc.

Can they afford to buy a home? In Broomfield, the median home price is around $575,000. To qualify for a conventional mortgage, you'd typically need an annual income of $110,000+ and a 20% down payment ($115,000). A single plumber earning the median salary would struggle to buy alone. This is why many tradespeople in the area pool resources—dual-income households or buying with family are common strategies. Renting is the more realistic short-term option.

Personal Insight: Many plumbers I've spoken with in Broomfield live in shared housing or have long-time partners to split costs. The first few years are tight, but once you hit the senior level ($72,000+), buying a home becomes a realistic goal, especially if you look at condos or townhomes in the $350,000-$450,000 range.

Where the Jobs Are: Broomfield's Major Employers

Broomfield's job market for plumbers isn't dominated by one giant company. It's a mix of large regional firms, local specialists, and direct commercial contracts. There are approximately 153 plumbing jobs in the Broomfield metro area, with 6% job growth projected over the next 10 years—a healthy outlook.

Here are the key players:

1. Service Experts (Denver Metro Office): This national company has a strong presence in Broomfield, specializing in both residential service and commercial HVAC/plumbing. They hire for steady, salaried positions with benefits. Hiring trend: Consistent, with a focus on techs who are EPA 608 certified for refrigerant work (often part of HVAC/plumbing combo roles).

2. Cooper Plumbing (Local Broomfield): A well-regarded local company that focuses on high-end residential and light commercial work. They're known for quality and have a reputation for treating employees well. Hiring trend: They grow slowly and hire for fit, not just to fill a slot. They value journeyman licenses and clean driving records.

3. A-Action Plumbing & Heating (Westminster/Arvada office): While based just outside Broomfield, they service the entire northern metro area, including Broomfield's new construction projects. They have a large team and frequent openings for both apprentices and journeymen. Hiring trend: High volume, especially in spring and summer for new construction (housing developments in Broomfield's northern edge near US-36).

4. Commercial Contractors (e.g., Mortenson Construction, Hensel Phelps): These large-scale commercial builders often subcontract plumbing for Denver International Airport expansion projects, data centers in Jefferson County, and the new CEX (Commercial Exhibition Center) in Broomfield. They hire through union halls (Plumbers Local 3) or direct subcontractors. Hiring trend: Project-based, but the 6% growth in the metro area means more commercial work is coming.

5. Medical Facilities (Broomfield Hospital - SCL Health): Large facilities need specialized medical gas and high-precision plumbing systems. They often hire directly for maintenance staff or use trusted local contractors. Hiring trend: Steady, with a focus on reliability and knowledge of medical gas codes (NFPA 99).

6. School District 27J (Broomfield, Westminster, Brighton): The school district has its own maintenance department that hires plumbers for facility upkeep. These are stable, government jobs with good benefits. Hiring trend: Slow to hire, but positions are coveted for their stability and pension.

Insider Tip: The best jobs often aren't advertised online. Join the Plumbers Local 3 union (they have a hall in Denver) and network at the Colorado Association of Mechanical & Plumbing Contractors (CAMPC) events. Many Broomfield plumbers get their best jobs through referrals from other tradespeople on job sites.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado state licensure is mandatory for anyone performing plumbing work for hire. The process is straightforward but requires time and documentation.

Requirements:

1. Apprenticeship: Complete a state-approved apprenticeship (typically 4-5 years, 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year, and 144 classroom hours per year).
2. Journeyman License: After apprenticeship, you must pass the Colorado Journeyman Plumber Exam. You need to provide proof of hours and training.
3. Master Plumber License: After working as a journeyman for 2 years, you can take the Master Plumber exam. This is required to pull permits and own a business.

Costs (Approximate):

• Apprenticeship Registration: $50
• Journeyman Exam Fee: $150
• Master Plumber Exam Fee: $200
• License Application Fee: $100
• Total Initial Licensing Cost: ~$500 (not including tools or schooling)

Timeline to Get Started:

• Year 1-2: Enroll in an apprenticeship program (e.g., through the Plumbers Local 3 union or a community college like Front Range Community College in nearby Westminster).
• Year 3-4: Continue apprenticeship, start studying for the journeyman exam.
• Year 5: Take and pass the journeyman exam. Start working as a licensed journeyman.
• Year 6-7: Gain experience, study for the master license if desired.

Key Resource: The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations, handles all licensing. Their website is the official source for exam dates and requirements. Insider Tip: The exam is based on the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with Colorado amendments. Invest in a good study guide and join a local study group.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Broomfield will dictate your commute, lifestyle, and housing costs. Here are the best options for working plumbers:

1. Interlocken/Terra (West Broomfield):

   • Commute: Excellent. Close to US-36 for quick access to Denver or Boulder. Many commercial jobs are in this area.
   • Lifestyle: Modern, planned community with parks and trails. Quiet, family-oriented.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $1,900-$2,100; 2BR: $2,300-$2,600.
   • Best For: Journeyman plumbers with a family, or those wanting a short commute to major employers.

2. Broomfield Heights (Central):

   • Commute: Central. Easy access to all of Broomfield and routes to Denver or the mountains.
   • Lifestyle: Established, diverse neighborhood with older homes (more repair work!) and good schools. Close to the Broomfield Community Center.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $1,700-$1,900; 2BR: $2,000-$2,400.
   • Best For: Apprentices or early-career plumbers who want affordability and a central location.

3. The Broadlands (North Broomfield):

   • Commute: Good. Close to I-25 for access to the north metro area and new construction projects.
   • Lifestyle: Newer homes, master-planned, with a focus on outdoor recreation. Strong community feel.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $1,800-$2,000; 2BR: $2,200-$2,500.
   • Best For: Plumbers working on new residential developments in the northern metro area.

4. Bradford/Original Town (East Broomfield):

   • Commute: Moderate. A bit further from US-36, but easy access to E-470 for jobs in the eastern suburbs.
   • Lifestyle: Affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes. More apartments and condos available.
   • Rent Estimate: 1BR: $1,650-$1,850; 2BR: $1,900-$2,200.
   • Best For: Entry-level plumbers or those prioritizing lower rent over a prime location.

Insider Tip: Avoid the very western edge near the foothills if you rely on a work truck. The winding roads can be tough in winter weather. For the best balance, aim for the central and eastern parts of the city.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A plumber's career in Broomfield can evolve in several lucrative directions.

Specialty Premiums:

• Medical Gas Certification: +$5,000-$10,000/year over standard journeyman pay. Critical for hospital and lab work.
• Backflow Prevention Testing: A state-certified tester can charge $150-$200 per test, adding significant side income.
• Green Technology: Expertise in hydronic heating, greywater systems, or solar thermal can command a 10-15% premium, especially in eco-conscious Boulder County.
• Commercial/Industrial: Commercial plumbers often earn 10-20% more than residential, with more consistent hours.

Advancement Paths:

1. From Apprentice to Business Owner: The classic path. Get your Master Plumber license ($85,000+ potential), start a small outfit, and bid on local contracts. Broomfield's growth means constant demand for new installers.
2. Specialist: Focus on a niche like trenchless pipe repair or high-rise building systems. This can lead to consulting work.
3. Corporate Route: Move into a project manager or estimator role at a large firm like Service Experts or A-Action. Salaries for these roles can reach $90,000-$110,000.
4. Instructor: With a Master license and experience, you could teach at Front Range Community College or a trade school, offering a stable, benefits-rich job.

10-Year Outlook: With 6% job growth in the metro area, the future is bright. The aging housing stock (much of Broomfield was built in the 1970s-90s) ensures demand for repairs and repipes. Commercial growth, especially in the US-36 tech corridor, will create more high-paying, specialty jobs. The key is to keep learning and getting certified.

The Verdict: Is Broomfield Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Salary & Growth: Median of $64,395 with 6% growth is solid for the trades.	High Rent: $1,835/month for a 1BR is a steep hit to a plumber's budget.
Job Stability: Diverse employers from residential to commercial.	Car-Dependent City: You'll need a reliable vehicle for work and commuting.
Location: Easy access to Denver, Boulder, and mountains for weekend trips.	Competitive Market: You need to stand out with good customer service and reliability.
Quality of Life: Safe, clean, with great parks and community amenities.	Buying a Home is Tough: As a single earner, it's a long-term goal, not a quick one.
Licensing Clarity: A clear path from apprentice to master.	Weather: Winters can be harsh; you'll need to work year-round.

Final Recommendation: Broomfield is an excellent choice for a licensed journeyman plumber or a dedicated apprentice ready to start a career. It offers a strong balance of pay, opportunity, and quality of life. If you're willing to start in a shared housing situation, network aggressively, and specialize (like getting medical gas certified), you can build a very comfortable life here. It's not the easiest place to start from zero, but for a tradesperson with a few years under their belt, it's a fantastic market to land in.

FAQs

1. Do I need to be union to find good work in Broomfield?
No, but it helps. The Plumbers Local 3 union has a strong presence and negotiates good wages and benefits for its members. However, many successful plumbers are non-union, especially those who run their own small businesses. It's a personal choice; union shops offer more stability, while non-union offers more flexibility.

2. What's the best way to find an apprenticeship?
Start by contacting the Plumbers Local 3 union hall in Denver or the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. You can also apply directly to companies like A-Action Plumbing or Cooper Plumbing that have formal apprenticeship programs. Be persistent—call and follow up.

3. How competitive is the journeyman exam?
It's challenging but passable with preparation. The pass rate is around 70% for first-time test-takers. Your best bet is to take a prep course (often offered by unions or trade schools) and study the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with Colorado amendments. Form a study group with other apprentices.

4. Is working for a big company or a small shop better?
It depends on your goals. Big companies (like Service Experts) offer structured training, benefits, and a steady paycheck. Small shops (like Cooper Plumbing) often provide a family-like atmosphere, more variety in work, and a faster