Plumber in Enid, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Enid Stands

For a plumber considering a move to Enid, OK, the financial picture is a key starting point. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market analysis, the median salary for a plumber in Enid is $60,708 per year. This translates to an hourly rate of $29.19 per hour. While this figure is slightly below the national average of $63,350 per year, the lower cost of living in Enid significantly offsets this difference. The Enid metro area has approximately 101 jobs for plumbers, indicating a stable, if not explosive, local market. Over the past decade, the field has seen a 10-year job growth of 6%, a modest but consistent trend driven by new construction and the maintenance needs of the city's aging housing stock.

To better understand your potential earnings, it's helpful to break them down by experience level. The following table provides an estimated salary range based on local market trends and BLS data, adjusted for Enid's economic context.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level Plumber	0-2 years	$45,000 - $52,000	$21.63 - $24.99
Mid-Level Plumber	2-5 years	$55,000 - $65,000	$26.44 - $31.25
Senior Plumber	5-10 years	$65,000 - $78,000	$31.25 - $37.50
Expert/Specialist	10+ years	$78,000+	$37.50+

When compared to other major Oklahoma cities, Enid presents a unique value proposition. Oklahoma City, the state's capital and largest metro, boasts a higher median salary for plumbers (around $65,000), but the cost of living there is approximately 15-20% higher, particularly in housing. Tulsa offers similar salary ranges to Enid but with a slightly higher cost of living. Smaller rural towns in Oklahoma may have lower salaries and fewer job opportunities. Therefore, Enid stands out for its combination of a solid median salary and a very low cost of living, making it an attractive option for plumbers seeking financial stability and a slower pace of life.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your net income is crucial for budgeting. With a median salary of $60,708, a plumber's take-home pay after federal, state, and FICA taxes (roughly 20-25% for this income bracket in Oklahoma) is approximately $4,200 to $4,400 per month. This is a conservative estimate; individual tax situations can vary.

The cornerstone of Enid's affordability is its housing market. The city's average 1BR rent is $760 per month, and its Cost of Living Index is 86.1 (where the U.S. average is 100). This means your money goes significantly further in Enid than in most of the country.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a plumber earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income (After Taxes)	$4,300	Based on $60,708 annual salary
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$760	City average; can vary by neighborhood
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250	Enid's climate can lead to higher seasonal utility costs
Car Payment & Insurance	$500	Assumes a moderate car payment and full coverage
Groceries & Household	$400	Enid has several grocery chains and local markets
Health Insurance (Single)	$300	Employer-sponsored plans are common; this is an estimate
Savings/Retirement (5%)	$250	Highly recommended for long-term stability
Miscellaneous/Entertainment	$500	Dining out, hobbies, personal care, etc.
Total Expenses	$2,960
Remaining for Extra Savings/Debt	~$1,340	This provides significant financial flexibility

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a median salary of $60,708, a plumber is well-positioned for homeownership in Enid. The median home price in Enid is approximately $150,000 - $175,000. Using conservative estimates (20% down, 7% interest rate, 30-year term), a mortgage payment would be around $800 - $950 per month, which is comparable to rent. The substantial monthly surplus in the budget allows for a down payment to be built relatively quickly. This is one of Enid's strongest selling points for skilled tradespeople.

Where the Jobs Are: Enid's Major Employers

The job market for plumbers in Enid is driven by a mix of residential construction, commercial maintenance, and public institutions. While the 101 total jobs indicate a niche market, the employers are relatively stable. Here are the key players:

1. St. Mary's Regional Medical Center (Part of Mercy Health): A major employer in the region, the hospital and its associated facilities require dedicated commercial plumbers for ongoing maintenance, specialized medical gas line work, and emergency repairs. Hiring tends to be steady, with opportunities often posted on hospital career boards.
2. Enid Public Schools (EPS): As one of the largest school districts in the area, EPS maintains a fleet of over 20 schools. They employ facilities maintenance staff, including plumbers, for preventative maintenance, renovation projects, and responding to issues across the district. These are often union-adjacent or public sector jobs with good benefits.
3. City of Enid Public Works: The city government itself is a significant employer for skilled trades. Plumbers in the Public Works department maintain city infrastructure, including water mains, sewer lines, and municipal buildings. These positions offer stability, pensions, and are often posted on the City of Enid's official job board.
4. Local Construction & Plumbing Companies (e.g., Enid Plumbing Co., Parker's Plumbing & Heating): The backbone of the residential and small commercial market. These companies handle new construction, renovations, and service calls. Hiring is often based on reputation and referrals; walking in with a resume and a strong work history can be effective. The trend here is toward steady replacement work on older homes in established neighborhoods.
5. Enid Energy (formerly ONG): While primarily a utility, Enid Energy requires plumbers for the installation and maintenance of gas lines for residential and commercial customers. This is a specialized niche that often pays a premium and offers benefits comparable to large corporate employers.
6. Autonomous (formerly Nissan Enid): The massive manufacturing plant on the city's north side is a major industrial employer. While they have internal maintenance teams, they often contract with local plumbing firms for plant expansions, system upgrades, and specialized projects. Getting on a contractor's list for this facility can lead to consistent project work.
7. Enid Wood Works / Local Manufacturing: Several smaller manufacturers in the Enid industrial park rely on local plumbing contractors for facility maintenance. These clients provide ongoing service contract opportunities.

Insider Tip: The most reliable path into these jobs is through a combination of local networking (Oklahoma Plumbing & Heating Association chapters) and direct contact. Many of the residential companies don't advertise heavily; they hire based on who they know and trust.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma has a clear licensing structure for plumbers, administered by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (CIB). Here’s a breakdown of the requirements, costs, and timeline.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Apprenticeship: You must complete a state-approved 4-year apprenticeship program (minimum 8,000 hours of on-the-job training) or have equivalent experience.
2. Journeyman License: After completing an apprenticeship, you must pass the Oklahoma Journeyman Plumber exam. You need 8 years of experience (which can include the apprenticeship years).
3. Master Plumber License: To work as a master plumber, you need 10 years of experience, including 2 years as a licensed journeyman. A master plumber can pull permits and own a business.

Costs and Timeline:

• Apprenticeship Program: Many programs are tuition-based or have minimal fees ($500 - $1,500 over 4 years). Some union programs (like the United Association) may have different structures but provide excellent training.
• Exam Fees: The journeyman and master plumber exams each cost approximately $200 - $300. Study materials and prep courses can add $100 - $500.
• Licensing Fees: Once you pass, the license fee is roughly $150. This must be renewed annually.
• Total Estimated Startup Cost: $1,000 - $2,000 (excluding tools and vehicle).

Timeline to Get Started:

• Year 1-4: Complete apprenticeship (working full-time while attending classes).
• Year 5: Study for and pass the Journeyman exam. Begin working as a licensed journeyman.
• Year 6-10: Gain experience as a journeyman. Consider pursuing specialties (medical gas, backflow prevention).
• Year 10+: Qualify for the Master Plumber exam and license.

Insider Tip: The Oklahoma Plumbing & Heating Association is an invaluable resource for finding approved apprenticeship programs and study groups. Many local contractors in Enid are members and can provide job placements for apprentices.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Enid is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each offering different lifestyles and commute times to key job centers like downtown, the hospital, or the industrial parks.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Average Rent (1BR)	Commute to Key Areas
Downtown Enid	Historic, walkable, urban. Mix of lofts and older homes. Growing arts scene. Great for young professionals.	$800 - $950	Central hub; 5-10 min drive to most employers.
North Enid / Oakwood	Family-oriented, established, quiet. Mature trees, larger yards. Close to Enid Public Schools.	$700 - $850	10-15 min to downtown; 15-20 min to St. Mary's.
South Enid / Oakwood Area	Affordable, suburban feel. Newer developments and existing ranch-style homes.	$650 - $800	15-20 min to most job centers; easy highway access.
West Enid / Monroe Area	More rural, spacious lots, lower density. Popular for those wanting a small homestead feel.	$600 - $750	15-25 min commute; requires a car.
East Enid / near St. Mary's	Convenient for hospital workers. Mix of older and newer homes.	$750 - $900	5-10 min to St. Mary's; 10-15 min to downtown.

Insider Tip: For a plumber with a work van, North Enid is an excellent choice. It offers a safe, residential base that's central enough for quick service calls, and the homes are older, meaning more potential repair and renovation work in your immediate area.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Plumbing in Enid is not just a job; it's a career with clear advancement paths. The 10-year job growth of 6% ensures steady demand, but specialization is where you can significantly increase your earnings.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Medical Gas Piping: Certification for working in healthcare facilities (like St. Mary's) can add $3-5/hour to your rate.
  • Backflow Prevention: Certified testers are in high demand for commercial and irrigation systems. This certification is a small investment for a large return.
  • Commercial/Industrial Plumbing: Working on large projects at the Autonomous plant or in new commercial builds pays a premium over residential service work.
  • Green Plumbing: Expertise in water-efficient systems and tankless water heaters is becoming more valuable as codes evolve.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Service Technician: Master troubleshooting and customer service. High earning potential from commissions and after-hours calls.
  2. Project Manager: For those with a master's license and business acumen. Oversees large residential or commercial projects.
  3. Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Enid's market is small enough to allow a well-run, local plumbing company to thrive without being crushed by national chains.
  4. Inspector: A licensed master plumber can become a building inspector for the City of Enid or a private agency, a stable, well-paid role.

10-Year Outlook: The outlook is positive. Enid's economy, while stable, is not booming, which means steady replacement and maintenance work. The aging housing stock (much of it built in the mid-20th century) guarantees a constant need for plumbing updates and repairs. New construction, while cyclical, is consistent. A plumber who builds a reputation for reliability and specializes will be in high demand.

The Verdict: Is Enid Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living (Index 86.1)	Smaller, less dynamic job market (101 total jobs)
Median Salary ($60,708) goes far	Limited specialty work compared to major metros
Affordable Homeownership (Median ~$165k)	Slower pace of life; fewer entertainment options
Stable, established employers	Limited public transportation; a car is essential
Modest but steady job growth (6%)	Can feel isolated from larger cultural hubs
Less competition than major cities	Weather (tornadoes, extreme cold/heat) can be harsh

Final Recommendation:

Enid is an excellent choice for a plumber who values financial stability, homeownership, and a high quality of life over the bustle of a major metropolis. It's ideal for someone at the mid-to-senior level of their career looking to put down roots, or for a journeyman aiming to become a master and eventually own a business. The market is tight but not saturated, and the low cost of living mitigates the slightly below-average salary.

It may be less ideal for a specialist seeking cutting-edge, large-scale projects (you'd be better served in Oklahoma City or Tulsa) or for someone who relies heavily on an urban public transit system. However, for the vast majority of plumbers, Enid offers a compelling and sustainable career path.

FAQs

1. How do I find an apprenticeship in Enid?
Start by contacting the Oklahoma Plumbing & Heating Association or local companies like Enid Plumbing Co. directly. Many companies post apprenticeship openings on their websites or at local trade schools like Northwestern Oklahoma State University's technical programs.

2. Do I need my own tools and vehicle?
Yes. Most employers, especially for service work, expect you to have a basic set of hand tools and a reliable vehicle. A work van is ideal and often a requirement for senior or service technician roles. Companies may provide specialized power tools.

3. Is the work seasonal?
Plumbing in Enid has a mild seasonal variation. Call volume dips slightly in the dead of winter but picks up in the spring (thaw-related issues) and during the hot summer (AC condensation line clogs, irrigation problems). New construction can be slower in the winter. Overall, the mix of service and maintenance provides year-round stability.

4. What's the biggest challenge for plumbers in Enid?
The biggest challenge is often the limited size of the market. With only about 101 jobs, opportunities can be competitive. Building a strong reputation and network is critical. The second challenge is the weather—working in 100°F heat or freezing cold requires resilience.

5. Can I make more than the median salary?
Yes, easily. The median of $60,708 is just a midpoint. Plumbers who specialize (medical gas, backflow), take on on-call/emergency work, or move into project management or business ownership can earn $75,000 to $100,000+ within a few years. Your earning potential is directly tied to your skills, reliability, and willingness to specialize.