Plumber in Denver, CO

The Salary Picture: Where Denver Stands

As a career analyst who’s lived in Denver for over a decade, I can tell you the plumbing trade is a rock-solid bet here. The city’s relentless growth, coupled with its aging housing stock and a booming commercial sector, keeps demand steady. The median salary for plumbers in Denver is $64,395/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $30.96. That’s a slight but meaningful edge over the national average of $63,350/year. With 1,433 jobs currently listed in the metro area and a 10-year job growth of 6%, the market is active and stable.

The key to maximizing your income here is understanding the experience ladder. Denver’s construction and service industries reward specialization and tenure. The table below breaks down the typical salary progression based on my observations of local market rates and data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Denver)
Entry-Level/Apprentice	0-2 years	$38,000 - $52,000
Mid-Level/Journeyman	3-7 years	$55,000 - $78,000
Senior/Lead Technician	8-15 years	$75,000 - $95,000+
Expert/Project Manager	15+ years	$90,000 - $120,000+

Insider Tip: Denver’s altitude and hard water are unique challenges. Plumbers who get certified in water softener and filtration system installation often command a premium. The Union (UA Local 3) also plays a significant role in setting wage standards for commercial work, which can push top-end salaries higher than the median.

While Denver’s pay is competitive, context matters. Let’s compare it to other major Colorado hubs. The Front Range is the state's economic engine, but cost of living varies.

• Colorado Springs: Salaries are typically 5-7% lower than Denver (median around $60,000), but rent is also more affordable.
• Fort Collins: Similar to Colorado Springs, with a smaller job market. Salaries often cluster closer to the $62,000 median.
• Grand Junction: As a regional hub on the Western Slope, the job market is smaller, and salaries trend lower, often in the $55,000-$65,000 range for experienced journeyman.

The premium in Denver is justified by the volume of work and the complexity of jobs—from high-rise apartments in LoDo to historic homes in Congress Park. For a plumber, this means more opportunities for overtime and specialized projects.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning $64,395/year sounds good, but the Denver reality hits when you look at monthly expenses. The city is notoriously expensive for housing. The average cost for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,835/month, and the overall Cost of Living Index is 105.5 (where the US average is 100). Let’s break down the monthly budget for a single plumber at the median salary.

Assumptions for this budget: Filing as single, no dependents, using 2023 standard deductions and Colorado state income tax rates. This is a pre-tax calculation for clarity.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,366	$64,395 / 12
Estimated Taxes	~$1,200	Fed, CO State, FICA (approx. 22% effective rate)
NET Monthly Pay	~$4,166	Your take-home pay
Rent (1BR Avg.)	$1,835	Can vary by $300+ based on neighborhood
Utilities	$250	Gas, electric, internet, water, trash
Groceries	$400	Denver grocery prices are ~8% above national avg
Car Payment/Insurance	$500	Essential for most trades; Denver insurance is high
Fuel & Maintenance	$200	Commuting costs add up
Health Insurance	$300	Est. employee portion of a plan
Retirement Savings	$500	Critical for long-term wealth (401k/IRA)
Discretionary Spending	$181	Eating out, entertainment, hobbies
TOTAL	$4,166	This budget is tight and leaves little room for error.

Can they afford to buy a home? At the median salary, it’s a significant challenge. The median home price in the Denver metro is currently over $580,000. A standard 20% down payment is $116,000. Even with an FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$20,300), the monthly mortgage payment on a $580k home would be roughly $3,500-$3,800 (including taxes/insurance), which is unsustainable on a $4,166 net monthly income. Homeownership is likely only feasible for dual-income households, those with significant savings, or plumbers earning well into the $85,000+ range (senior or expert level).

Insider Tip: Many Denver plumbing companies offer profit-sharing or bonuses for overtime and on-call work. This can push your actual annual income $5k-$15k above the median, which is crucial for making the budget work.

Where the Jobs Are: Denver's Major Employers

The job market for plumbers in Denver is diverse, spanning from massive commercial contractors to specialized residential service companies. Here are the key players, based on their size, reputation, and hiring frequency.

1. City and County of Denver: The municipal government is a massive employer for plumbers in the Water and Sewer division. They maintain the city’s infrastructure—sewer lines, water mains, and public facilities. Jobs here are stable, come with excellent benefits (pension plan), and pay is competitive with the union scale. Hiring is cyclical but consistent; they often list openings on GovernmentJobs.com.

2. University of Colorado Health (UCHealth): UCHealth, with major facilities like UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (Aurora) and UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central (Denver), employs in-house plumbers for facility maintenance. These roles require knowledge of medical gas systems, high-purity water for labs, and backflow prevention. It’s a shift-based, institutional role with great benefits.

3. M.A. Mortenson Company: A top-tier national contractor with a massive local presence. They handle large-scale projects like the Denver International Airport expansions, hospitals, and high-rises. They hire union and non-union plumbers for commercial new construction. Working for Mortenson means working on iconic projects and often traveling to other job sites in the region.

4. Apex Plumbing, Heating & Air: A large, local residential and light-commercial service company. They are a go-to for homeowners across the metro. They heavily invest in technician training and offer a clear path from apprentice to lead technician. They’re often hiring for service technicians, especially those with strong customer service skills.

5. Hensel Phelps Construction: Another national heavy-hitter with deep Denver roots (they’re Colorado-based). They specialize in complex projects like the new National Western Center and the Denver Airport rail line. They run a well-organized apprenticeship program and are known for strong safety culture and career development.

6. Denver Public Schools (DPS): The district employs facilities technicians and plumbers to maintain hundreds of schools. This is a stable, unionized (SEIU) government job with a predictable schedule, summers often lighter, and a strong benefits package. It’s a great option for those prioritizing work-life balance.

Hiring Trends: The commercial sector is hiring aggressively for the ongoing construction boom. Residential service is always in demand due to the city’s aging housing stock (many homes built 1950s-1970s). There’s also a growing niche in green plumbing—installing tankless water heaters, greywater systems, and fixtures for water conservation, which resonates with Denver’s environmentally conscious population.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado requires plumbers to be licensed through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations. The process is straightforward but requires dedication.

• Apprenticeship: You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. This typically involves 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year for 4 years (8,000 total hours), coupled with classroom instruction. Many apprentice programs are run through unions (UA Local 3) or non-union training centers like the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).
• Journeyman License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Journeyman Plumber exam. The exam fee is approximately $150. You must also submit proof of your completed apprenticeship hours.
• Master Plumber License: To work independently or run your own business, you need a Master Plumber license. This requires an additional 4 years of experience as a journeyman (8,000 hours) and passing the Master Plumber exam (fee ~$150).

Total Cost & Timeline: The direct licensing fees are minimal (~$300). The real cost is your time and the apprenticeship itself, which is often paid (at a lower rate) while you learn. From starting as an apprentice to becoming a licensed journeyman takes 4 years. To become a master plumber and open your own shop takes a minimum of 8 years total.

Insider Tip: Colorado has reciprocity with several states, but not all. If you’re licensed elsewhere, check DORA’s website for specific application details. Also, Denver has its own additional requirements for in-home work permits, which most employers handle on your behalf.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Denver dramatically impacts your commute, cost, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods that offer a good balance for working plumbers.

1. Aurora (East Metro): Aurora is the largest suburb in Colorado. It’s more affordable (1BR avg. rent: $1,550/month) with a huge housing stock—many homes built in the 70s and 80s, meaning constant repair work. Commutes to major employers like UCHealth and the airport are easy. The vibe is diverse and family-oriented. Best for: Plumbers starting out, families, and those who prioritize affordability.

2. Thornton / Westminster (North Metro): These suburbs are more affordable than Denver proper (1BR avg. rent: $1,600/month). They offer easy access to I-25 and I-76, making commutes to commercial job sites in Denver, Boulder, and the northern suburbs manageable. The neighborhoods are predominantly suburban with a strong middle-class feel. Best for: Plumbers who drive for work and want a quiet, residential base.

3. Westwood / Barnum (West Denver): These are historic, working-class neighborhoods that have seen significant reinvestment. Rents are below the city average (1BR avg. rent: $1,700/month). The commute to downtown is short. This area has a high concentration of older homes needing plumbing updates and a growing number of commercial projects. It’s gritty but has a strong community vibe. Best for: Plumbers who want an urban, central living experience without the LoDo price tag.

4. Highlands Ranch / Lone Tree (South Metro): While these are affluent suburbs, they offer a different opportunity. Rents are high (1BR avg. rent: $2,000/month), but the homes are newer (1990s-2000s) and larger. The work here is often high-end, with complex systems (hydronic heating, irrigation, luxury fixtures). Commutes to the tech and healthcare hubs in the southeast metro are easy. Best for: Senior plumbers or those specializing in high-end residential or commercial service who can command a higher rate.

5. Montbello / Green Valley Ranch (Northeast Denver): These neighborhoods are more affordable (1BR avg. rent: $1,500/month) and have a young, diverse population. They are close to Denver International Airport and the expanding commercial corridors along I-70. The housing stock is a mix of older and newer, providing varied work. Best for: Plumbers who work at DIA or in the airport vicinity and want an affordable, convenient home base.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A plumbing career in Denver isn’t just about turning wrenches; it’s about strategic advancement. The 10-year job growth of 6% is steady, but your personal growth can outpace that if you specialize.

• Specialty Premiums: Beyond general repair, Denver plumbers can significantly boost their income by specializing. Gas pipefitting for the numerous new construction projects pays a premium. Medical gas plumbing for healthcare facilities (like UCHealth) is a highly paid niche. Backflow prevention certification is a must for commercial work and often comes with a pay bump. Water treatment and filtration is a huge market due to the hard water and the city’s focus on quality.
• Advancement Paths: The path isn’t linear. A typical journeyman can become a Lead Technician, managing a crew and customer relationships. From there, you can move into Field Supervisor or Project Manager roles, moving off the tools and into an office. The ultimate goal for many is to get a Master Plumber license and start their own company, where the income ceiling is much higher but so is the risk.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain strong. As Denver’s population grows, so does the need for new housing, commercial space, and infrastructure. The push for water conservation and green building codes will create new opportunities. The key to staying relevant is continuous learning. The plumbers who will thrive are those who adapt to new technologies (like touchless fixtures, smart water systems) and sustainable practices. Union apprentices can expect a gradual increase in wage scales, while independent contractors will benefit from inflation driving up service rates.

The Verdict: Is Denver Right for You?

Deciding to move to Denver as a plumber is a financial and lifestyle calculation. Here’s the bottom-line assessment.

Pros	Cons
Steady Job Market: 1,433 jobs and 6% growth provide security.	High Cost of Living: Rent is $1,835/month; buying a home is a major hurdle.
Above-Average Pay: Median $64,395 is slightly higher than the national average.	Competitive Market: Many skilled tradespeople move here, so you must be excellent.
Diverse Work: From high-rises to historic homes, no two days are the same.	Traffic & Commutes: Denver’s traffic is notorious; your neighborhood choice is critical.
Quality of Life: Access to mountains, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant city.	Rapid Growth Strain: The city’s infrastructure and housing are under constant pressure.
Strong Unions & Training: UA Local 3 and ABC offer excellent apprenticeship pathways.	Weather Extremes: Freezing winters require knowledge of freeze-proofing and winterization.

Final Recommendation: Denver is an excellent choice for an ambitious plumber who is either single with a roommate or in a dual-income household, and who is willing to specialize early. If you’re just starting your career, the apprenticeship programs here are top-notch. For senior plumbers, the market for high-end residential and commercial work is lucrative. However, if your primary goal is to buy a standalone home as a single-earner on a median salary, you will face significant financial strain. For the right candidate—someone who values career growth, diverse work, and outdoor access—the trade-offs are worth it.

FAQs

Q: I’m a licensed journeyman from another state. How long will it take to get licensed in Colorado?
A: It depends on reciprocity. Colorado has reciprocity with Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Utah. If your license is from one of these states, the process can take 2-3 months. For other states, you may need to provide proof of experience and potentially take a state exam. Always check with DORA first.

Q: Is the union (UA Local 3) worth joining in Denver?
A: For commercial and industrial work, absolutely. Union wages and benefits (pension, health care) are often superior. The union also manages training and job placement, which is a huge benefit. For strictly residential service, non-union companies can be a better fit due to different work cultures and commission structures. Many plumbers start non-union and join later for stability.

Q: What’s the deal with Denver’s water and hard water?
A: Denver’s water is relatively hard (moderate levels of calcium and magnesium). This means plumbers frequently install and service water softeners and filtration systems. It’s a major source of service calls—clogged showerheads, scale buildup on appliances, and damaged water heaters. Mastering water treatment is a lucrative skill here.

Q: How do I find an apprenticeship program in Denver?
A: Two main routes: 1) Union: Contact UA Local 3 directly; they run a 5-year apprenticeship. 2) Non-Union: Check out the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Rocky Mountain Chapter or the Denver Mechanical Contractors Association. Both offer state-approved programs. Expect to apply, interview, and possibly test.

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