Plumber in East Providence, RI

The Salary Picture: Where East Providence Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re planning a move. The median salary for a plumber in the East Providence metro area is $63,521/year. On an hourly basis, that breaks down to $30.54/hour. This is a hair above the national average for plumbers, which sits at $63,350/year. It’s not a massive premium, but it’s a solid baseline, especially when you factor in the local cost of living.

The job market here is tight but stable. There are approximately 93 plumbing jobs in the metro area at any given time. It’s a niche market compared to larger cities, which means your reputation is your currency. The local industry is sustained by a mix of residential work in older neighborhoods, commercial contracts, and steady maintenance for institutions. The 10-year job growth is projected at 6%, which aligns with national trends but indicates a field that’s growing, not exploding. This is a "steady hand" market, not a boom town.

To give you a clearer picture of how your earning potential scales with experience, here’s a breakdown. These figures are estimates based on local data and industry standards for the region.

| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary | Estimated Hourly Rate | Notes |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $45,000 - $52,000 | $21.63 - $25.00/hr | Starts with apprenticeship. Local unions (like UA Local 51) offer structured training. |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $60,000 - $72,000 | $28.85 - $34.62/hr | You can lead small projects, specialize in certain systems, and take on more responsibility. |
| Senior Level (8-15 years) | $75,000 - $90,000 | $36.06 - $43.27/hr | Often involves project management, complex commercial work, or running your own crew. |
| Expert/Owner (15+ years) | $90,000+ | $43.27+/hr | Top-tier specialists, business owners, or consultants for major projects (e.g., hospitals, large commercial). |

When you compare East Providence to other Rhode Island cities, the picture gets nuanced. Providence, the state capital and largest city, has a slightly higher median salary (around $65,000) but also a higher cost of living. In contrast, cities like Warwick or Cranston might have similar salary ranges but offer different job markets—Warwick has a huge commercial and airport-related sector. East Providence sits in a sweet spot: it's part of the larger Providence metro area, so you have access to those bigger contracts, but you're not dealing with the downtown Providence commute or parking costs every day. The 93 jobs in the metro are a realistic number; it means you’re not competing with hundreds of applicants for a single opening, but you also need to be proactive in your job search.

Insider Tip: The union wage for UA Local 51 (which covers much of Rhode Island) often sets the benchmark for non-union shops. Being a union member can be a significant advantage for benefits and wage stability, especially for large commercial projects. Research their apprenticeship program if you're starting out.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $63,521 salary sounds good on paper, but let's break down what it means for your monthly life in East Providence. We'll use the $1,362/month average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment as our anchor. For taxes, we'll assume you're a single filer with no dependents, which gives a reasonable estimate (federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, and Rhode Island state tax).

Monthly Take-Home Pay Estimation:

• Gross Monthly Income: $63,521 / 12 = $5,293.42
• Estimated Deductions (Taxes & Benefits): ~22% (This includes federal, state, FICA, and a modest health insurance contribution). This is an estimate; your actual take-home varies.
• Estimated Net (Take-Home) Monthly Income: ~$4,129

Sample Monthly Budget Breakdown (Plumber at $63,521/year):

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1-BR Avg.)	$1,362	This is the citywide average. See the neighborhood section for variations.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Internet)	$250	New England winters can spike heating costs. Older buildings may be less efficient.
Groceries	$450	RI has slightly higher grocery costs than the national average.
Car Payment/Insurance	$550	Essential unless you live and work in a very walkable area. Car insurance rates in RI are higher than average.
Gas/Maintenance	$150	Commuting to job sites across the region.
Health Insurance (out-of-pocket)	$150	If not fully covered by employer.
Dining/Entertainment	$300	Budgeting for a social life and occasional meals out.
Savings/Debt Payment	$700	This is a critical number. It leaves room for retirement, emergency fund, or student loans.
Miscellaneous	$200	Clothing, personal care, subscriptions, etc.
TOTAL	$4,112	Leaves $17 of wiggle room.

Can they afford to buy a home?
The short answer: It’s challenging but possible, especially with a dual income. The median home price in East Providence is around $375,000. With a $63,521 salary, you'd be at the very top of the recommended 3x income ratio for a mortgage. A 20% down payment is $75,000, a significant hurdle. A single plumber at this salary would likely need to rent for several years to save for a down payment, or explore FHA loans with a lower down payment (3.5%). A partner with a second income makes homeownership in East Providence much more attainable. Many plumbers in the area eventually buy in neighboring, more affordable towns like Riverside or Warren after building their savings.

Insider Tip: Look for employers who offer a housing allowance or have partnerships with local credit unions. Some larger construction firms in RI have programs to help skilled tradespeople with first-time home buying.

Where the Jobs Are: East Providence's Major Employers

East Providence’s job market is a blend of local small businesses and regional players. The 93 jobs are spread across these key employers. Knowing who they are is half the battle.

1. Local Plumbing & Heating Companies: These are the backbone. Firms like Matthieu Plumbing & Heating and Armstrong Plumbing are established names in town. They handle the bulk of residential service calls, from leaky faucets to full system replacements. Hiring is steady, and they often look for apprentices and journeymen. They value reliability and customer service above all.

2. Bristol County Water Authority: With its main office in nearby Bristol, this utility serves East Providence and the surrounding area. They need plumbers and pipefitters for infrastructure maintenance, meter installation, and line repair. These are often union positions with excellent benefits and job security. It's a stable, long-term career path. Check their website for "Maintenance" or "Field Technician" postings.

3. State of Rhode Island Facilities: The state employs plumbers through the Department of Public Works and Division of Facilities Management. This includes maintaining state buildings, correctional facilities, and hospitals. While based in Providence, the work covers all of East Providence's state-owned properties. These jobs are listed on the RI.gov jobs portal. They offer great state benefits and pensions.

4. Rhode Island Hospital & Care New England: While the main campuses are in Providence, their facilities in East Providence (like the East Providence Health Center and various clinics) require constant plumbing maintenance. Hospital work is a specialty niche—high-pressure, clean-room environments, and medical gas systems. It pays a premium ($75,000+). It requires specific certifications and clean background checks.

5. Commercial Construction Firms: Companies like Shawmut Design and Construction or Barrington Building Company frequently bid on projects in the area. A new school, a corporate office, or a retail complex in East Providence's commercial districts (like near the waterfront) will need plumbing sub-contractors. This is project-based work, often through a union hall, but it pays the highest rates.

6. Facilities Management Companies: Firms that manage large commercial properties (e.g., office parks, shopping centers) hire plumbers for ongoing maintenance. This is a less visible but steady stream of work. ABM and JLL are national companies with a local presence.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward specialization. General plumbers who can also do backflow prevention, medical gas, or advanced water treatment have a distinct advantage. There's also a growing demand for green plumbing expertise (water-saving fixtures, hydronic heating) as part of Rhode Island's energy efficiency push.

Getting Licensed in RI

Rhode Island takes its plumbing licenses seriously. You cannot work as a journeyman or master plumber without being licensed by the state. The process is structured but requires time and commitment.

1. Apprenticeship (4-5 Years):

• What it is: You must complete an approved apprenticeship program. This is typically a combination of on-the-job training (around 8,000 hours) and classroom instruction (around 200 hours per year).
• How to start: Apply to an apprenticeship program through the United Association (UA) Local 51 or a non-union program like the Rhode Island Plumbing & Heating Contractors Association. Entry is competitive and often requires a high school diploma or GED, aptitude testing, and interviews.
• Cost: Apprentices often earn a percentage of a journeyman's wage (starting around 50%), so you get paid while you learn. You may have modest tuition fees for the classroom portion.

2. Journeyman Plumber License:

• Requirements: Complete your apprenticeship, pass a state-approved journeyman exam, and submit an application to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) - Plumbers & Gas Fitters Board.
• Exam: The exam covers state codes, safety, and trade knowledge. Study materials are provided by the apprenticeship program. Exam fees are typically under $200.
• Timeline: After 4-5 years of regulated apprenticeship.

3. Master Plumber License:

• Requirements: You must hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years and then pass a more comprehensive master plumber exam. This license allows you to pull permits and run your own business.
• Cost: Exam fees and licensing fees are higher (can be $300-$500 total), plus you'll need business insurance and a surety bond if you start a company.

Insider Tip: Start your apprenticeship application early. The UA Local 51 waitlist can be long. Consider working as a helper for a licensed plumber while you wait to build experience and make connections. Always verify the current licensing requirements on the RI DLT website, as rules and fees can change.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Choosing where to live in East Providence depends on your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a guide to the best spots for a working plumber.

1. Riverside (East Side of East Providence):

   • Vibe: A quiet, residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It’s very close to the Seekonk River and has a classic New England feel.
   • Commute: Excellent. You’re a straight shot into downtown Providence (15 mins) and easy access to I-195 for jobs in Warren or Fall River. Local work in East Providence is a 5-10 minute drive.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,450/month for a 1-BR. Slightly below the city average.
   • Why it’s great for plumbers: Affordable, easy commutes, and a lot of older homes that will inevitably need plumbing work. You might even get service calls in your own neighborhood.

2. Pawtucket Avenue / Commercial District:

   • Vibe: Urban, convenient, and right on the main artery. A mix of apartments, condos, and small retail. It’s the bustling part of town.
   • Commute: Unbeatable. You are at the hub of the city’s bus routes and minutes from the highway. You can reach most job sites in under 20 minutes.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,500/month for a 1-BR. You pay a slight premium for location.
   • Why it’s great for plumbers: If you don’t want to spend time commuting, this is the spot. Everything is walkable or a very short drive. You'll see more service calls come out of the high-density housing here.

3. Rumford:

   • Vibe: A village feel with a mix of older mill houses and newer developments. It has its own small commercial center. It feels a bit more spread out and suburban.
   • Commute: Good. A bit more central than Riverside, but still with easy highway access. About 15-20 minutes to downtown Providence.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,350 - $1,550/month for a 1-BR.
   • Why it’s great for plumbers: A balanced lifestyle. It's close to the East Providence High School and has a strong community. The older housing stock means steady work.

4. Thornton Street / Watchemoket Square Area:

   • Vibe: The historic heart of East Providence. A dense, walkable neighborhood with beautiful Victorian homes and a lot of character.
   • Commute: Excellent. Very close to the highway and Providence.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,650/month for a 1-BR (often in older, converted buildings).
   • Why it’s great for plumbers: This is where you'll find the most plumbing work—the beautiful old homes need constant updating to their vintage plumbing systems. Living here means you're in the epicenter of potential service calls.

5. Seekonk (Just Outside East Providence):

   • Note: While not technically East Providence, many plumbers live here. It’s a separate town with a different tax structure and often larger properties.
   • Vibe: Suburban, family-oriented, with more space and yards.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to East Providence. Similar highway access.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,700/month for a 1-BR (often more apartment complexes).
   • Why it’s great for plumbers: If you want a yard to park your work truck or are looking for more space for your family, Seekonk is a popular choice. The trade-off is a slightly longer commute and potentially higher rents.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In East Providence, career growth isn't about rapid climbs; it's about deepening your expertise and building a rock-solid reputation over time.

Specialty Premiums: The standard $63,521 median is just the starting point. Specializing is where you break into the $75,000 - $90,000 range.

• Medical Gas Piping: Crucial for hospitals, labs, and dental offices. Requires special certification but commands top dollar.
• Backflow Prevention: A mandated requirement for commercial properties. Getting certified as a backflow tester is a low-effort, high-return side specialty.
• Hydronic & Green Systems: With New England's climate, efficient heating is key. Expertise in high-efficiency boilers, radiant floor heating, and water reuse systems is in demand and pays a premium.

Advancement Paths:

1. Journeyman to Master: The classic path. Allows for pulling permits and taking on larger, more profitable projects.
2. Specialist to Consultant: After decades of experience, you can become a consultant for architects, engineers, or large facilities, advising on complex system designs.
3. Business Ownership: The ultimate goal for many. Starting your own small shop (serving East Providence and nearby towns) can be lucrative, but it comes with the overhead of insurance, marketing, and management. The local network you build over your career is your most valuable asset here.

10-Year Outlook (Based on 6% Growth):
The 6% 10-year growth is encouraging. It won't lead to a labor shortage, but it will sustain demand. The key drivers will be:

• Aging Infrastructure: East Providence's housing stock and municipal pipes are old. Replacement and repair are perpetual needs.
• New Construction: The ongoing development of the waterfront area and commercial zones will require skilled plumbers for new installations.
• Water Quality & Efficiency: Increasing regulations and a focus on sustainability will push for upgrades in both residential and commercial systems.

The plumber who survives the next decade will be the one who embraces technology (like leak detection systems), stays current with RI's code changes