Plumber in Evanston, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Evanston Stands

As a plumber considering Evanston, you're looking at a market that's stable but not booming. The median salary for a plumber in Evanston, WY is $62,779/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $30.18/hour. This is slightly below the national average for plumbers, which sits at $63,350/year. While the difference is modest, it’s important to understand the local context. The metro area has only 23 jobs for plumbers, indicating a tight, competitive market where reputation and reliability are your biggest assets.

Experience plays a significant role in your earning potential. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at different career stages in this region:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors in Evanston
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Often starts as an apprentice. Paid hourly, with opportunities for overtime on residential calls.
Mid-Career (3-8 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Can handle most service calls independently. May specialize in commercial or residential.
Senior (9-15 years)	$70,000 - $85,000+	Leads crews, estimates large jobs, manages projects. Often works for larger mechanical contractors.
Expert (15+ years)	$85,000+	Business owners, master plumbers with extensive local networks, or specialized consultants.

When comparing to other Wyoming cities, Evanston's salary is competitive for its size. Cheyenne and Casper, with larger populations and more commercial construction, offer marginally higher median salaries (closer to $65,000 - $68,000). However, Evanston's lower cost of living and proximity to the Salt Lake City metro area (for occasional project work) can offset this. The key is that the 10-Year Job Growth for plumbers in the region is projected at 6%, which is steady but not explosive. This suggests consistent demand rather than a rush of new opportunities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. On a median salary of $62,779/year, your take-home pay after federal and state taxes (Wyoming has no state income tax) will be approximately $4,600/month. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Evanston is $921/month. This leaves you with a solid $3,679 for other expenses, which is a workable margin in this town.

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

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes for Evanston
Housing (1BR Rent)	$921	Competitive. Newer complexes exist near the mall, older, cheaper units near downtown.
Utilities	$150 - $200	Includes electricity, gas, water, and trash. Can be higher in winter due to heating.
Food & Groceries	$350 - $450	Access to standard grocery chains (Smith's, Walmart) and a local farmers' market seasonally.
Transportation	$250 - $350	Most rely on personal vehicles. Gas is typically cheaper than national average.
Insurance (Health/Car)	$300 - $400	Varies widely. Employer-provided health insurance is common in trade unions.
Miscellaneous	$500 - $700	Includes savings, entertainment, tools, and incidentals.
Total Expenses	$2,471 - $3,021	Leaves a buffer of $600 - $1,100 for savings or debt.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Evanston is approximately $250,000 - $280,000. With the take-home pay and lower cost of living, a plumber with good credit and a down payment can comfortably secure a mortgage. Many local plumbers eventually purchase homes in neighborhoods like Bear River or North Evanston, where property values are stable and lots are generous—ideal for storing work vehicles and tools.

Where the Jobs Are: Evanston's Major Employers

With only 23 plumbing jobs in the metro, you need to target the right employers. The demand is driven by a mix of residential service, commercial construction, and institutional maintenance. Here are the key local players:

1. Evanston Mechanical Contractors: This is one of the larger local firms, handling commercial projects for the city, schools, and new developments. They value licensure and experience with commercial systems (backflow preventers, large boilers). Hiring is steady due to ongoing school district upgrades and hospital expansions.

2. Uinta County School District #6: The school district is a major employer for maintenance plumbers. This is a stable, unionized position with excellent benefits. Jobs are posted on the district website and often filled internally. Knowing a facilities manager here is a huge advantage.

3. Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County (Evanston Campus): The hospital requires specialized plumbers for medical gas systems, sterilization equipment, and 24/7 emergency service. These roles demand certification and experience with healthcare codes. It's a niche with high pay and job security.

4. Local Residential Service Companies (e.g., Big D Plumbing, Roto-Rooter): National franchises and local independents handle the bulk of residential repair and replacement work. This is where many apprentices cut their teeth. The market is competitive, and customer reviews are critical.

5. Uinta County Government: The county maintains its own facilities, including the courthouse, jail, and fairgrounds. They hire plumbers for maintenance or contract out to local firms. Public sector jobs offer stability and a pension.

6. New Construction Contractors: With some residential growth on the outskirts, builders like Uinta Builders or Rocky Mountain Construction subcontract plumbing work. This is project-based and can be seasonal, but it’s a great way to build a portfolio.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward consolidation. Larger firms are absorbing smaller ones for better bidding power. For the independent plumber, building a reputation for reliable residential service is the most sustainable path. The "insider tip" is to network with real estate agents and property managers; they are the first to know about new rental turnovers and homeowner emergencies.

Getting Licensed in Wyoming

Wyoming’s licensing is managed by the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety (DFPES). The process is straightforward but requires dedication.

• Apprentice: No license required, but you must work under a licensed journeyman or master plumber. You should register as an apprentice with the state.
• Journeyman Plumber: Requires 4 years (8,000 hours) of documented apprenticeship and passing the state journeyman exam. The exam fee is approximately $150. This is the standard license for most working plumbers.
• Master Plumber: Requires an additional 2 years (4,000 hours) as a journeyman and passing the master exam. This license allows you to pull permits and run your own business. The exam fee is similar.

Costs & Timeline: Beyond exam fees, expect costs for books and study materials ($200-$400). The total timeline from apprentice to journeyman is 4 years. A key tip: Wyoming has reciprocity with several states (like Colorado and Nebraska). If you’re already licensed elsewhere, check with the DFPES for an easier transition. In Evanston, having your journeyman’s license is the minimum for a solid, well-paying job.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live affects your commute, lifestyle, and access to tools. Evanston is small, but neighborhoods have distinct characters.

1. Downtown Historic District: Close to the main commercial drag (10th Street). Walkable to shops and restaurants. Older homes mean more repair work for residents. Rent for a 1BR: $800 - $950. A plumber’s truck fits on the street, but garage space is limited.
2. Bear River: A quiet, family-oriented neighborhood with single-family homes and larger lots. Very convenient for commuting to the hospital or industrial areas. Rent for a 1BR (in a duplex): $850 - $975. Ideal if you have a service van and need parking.
3. North Evanston: Newer development with modern apartments and townhomes. Close to the Walmart and Home Depot—a major plus for stocking supplies. Rent for a 1BR: $950 - $1,100. A bit pricier, but the convenience for a working plumber is unmatched.
4. South Evanston: More affordable, with a mix of older homes and apartments. Slightly longer commute to the northern industrial parks, but you’re closer to the I-80 corridor for jobs in the wider region. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $875. Good for apprentices or those starting out.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 6% 10-year job growth indicates a stable, not speculative, market. Growth here comes from specialization and entrepreneurship.

• Specialty Premiums: In Evanston, the highest premiums are for:

  • Medical Gas Certification: Required for hospital work, can add $5-$10/hour to your rate.
  • Backflow Prevention: A state-mandated certification for commercial irrigation and fire systems. Always in demand.
  • Commercial Boiler Systems: The local schools and hospital rely on these. Expertise here makes you indispensable.

• Advancement Paths: The classic path is Apprentice → Journeyman → Service Technician → Crew Lead → Business Owner. Many successful local plumbers started with a truck and a cell phone, building a client base through sheer reliability. The lack of massive corporate competition means a skilled, personable plumber can carve out a thriving niche.

• 10-Year Outlook: The outlook is tied to Evanston's role as a service hub for Uinta County. While new construction is limited, the aging housing stock (many homes built in the 70s and 80s) guarantees a steady stream of repipes, fixture replacements, and drain cleaning. The key will be adapting to new technologies (e.g., tankless water heaters, PEX piping) and building a reputation that transcends price competition.

The Verdict: Is Evanston Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes far, making homeownership very achievable.	Limited Job Market: Only 23 jobs in the metro. Less room for job-hopping.
Stable, Recession-Resistant Work: Aging infrastructure and institutional needs provide steady demand.	Isolation: 80+ miles from Salt Lake City. Cultural and entertainment options are limited.
Strong Community Ties: Easy to build a reputation and network in a small town.	Harsh Winters: Can disrupt service calls and increase vehicle maintenance costs.
No State Income Tax: More money in your pocket.	Limited Career Ladder: Few large corporate offices; top-out is often starting your own business.

Final Recommendation: Evanston is an excellent choice for a plumber who values stability, affordability, and a close-knit community over high-paced career climbing. It's ideal for a journeyman or master plumber looking to buy a home, start a family, and eventually run their own business. It’s less suitable for an apprentice seeking the widest variety of training opportunities or someone who thrives in a large, anonymous city. If you have your license, a reliable truck, and a good work ethic, you can build a very comfortable life here.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for plumbers in Evanston?
It’s a tight market. With only 23 jobs, openings are rare. Most work is secured through networking, reputation, or starting your own service. Having a journeyman’s license is essential to be competitive.

2. Do I need to specialize in commercial or residential plumbing?
Both are viable. Residential service offers more consistent daily work. Commercial (especially for institutions like the hospital or schools) offers higher pay and more stable contracts. Many plumbers do both.

3. What’s the biggest challenge for plumbers in Evanston?
The biggest challenge is winter. Frozen pipes are a constant emergency from November to March, leading to long, unpredictable hours. A reliable 4WD vehicle is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

4. Can I commute from Salt Lake City for more opportunities?
It’s possible but not ideal. The 80-mile each-way commute is costly in time and fuel, especially in winter. Most employers in Evanston prefer local candidates who can respond quickly to emergencies. Living in Evanston is a major advantage.

5. How do I find a job if there are so few openings?
Work your network. Talk to the parts suppliers (like Ferguson on Front Street), join the local trade association, and let real estate agents know you’re available. Also, check with the city and county public works departments directly, as they sometimes hire for maintenance positions.