A Plumber's Guide to Garland, Texas

If you're a licensed plumber considering a move to Garland, TX, you're looking at a market with solid demand, a reasonable cost of living, and a strategic location in the heart of North Texas. As someone who's watched the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex evolve for years, I can tell you that Garland has carved out its own identity—a place where you can find work without fighting the intense competition of downtown Dallas. This guide is built on real data and local insights to help you decide if this city is the right fit for your tools and your life.

The Salary Picture: Where Garland Stands

Garland's salary landscape for plumbers is competitive, sitting above the national average but reflecting the specific economic conditions of the Dallas metro. The median salary for a plumber in Garland is $63,977/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $30.76/hour. This is slightly higher than the national average for plumbers, which sits at $63,350/year. It's a modest but meaningful premium, and it's driven by consistent demand in a growing metro area.

The job market is tight but active. There are approximately 487 plumbing jobs in the metro area, which includes Garland and its immediate neighbors. Over the last decade, the industry has seen a 10% job growth, a trend that's expected to continue as the region's population expands and aging housing stock requires updates. This isn't a boom market, but it's a steady one, offering stability for those who establish themselves.

To understand where you might fit in, here's a breakdown of experience levels and what you can expect to earn. These are estimates based on industry standards for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, adjusted for Garland's specific market.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary (Garland)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$45,000 - $55,000	Assisting senior plumbers, basic pipe fitting, drain cleaning, learning local codes.
Mid-Level	2-5 years	$55,000 - $70,000	Managing service calls independently, residential install/repair, troubleshooting complex systems.
Senior	5-10 years	$70,000 - $85,000	Commercial projects, lead technician roles, mentoring apprentices, specialized systems (e.g., medical gas, backflow).
Expert/Contractor	10+ years	$85,000+	Business owner, master plumber, consultant on large-scale projects, teaching.

How does Garland compare to other Texas cities?

• Dallas: Salaries are often 5-10% higher in Dallas proper, but the cost of living and commute can eat into that advantage. Competition is fiercer.
• Fort Worth: Similar to Garland, with a strong industrial base. Salaries are comparable, but the job market leans slightly more toward commercial and industrial work.
• Austin: The tech boom has driven up wages and living costs significantly. You might see higher salaries in Austin, but the rent is often 30-40% higher than in Garland.
• Houston: A massive market with high demand, especially in industrial and petrochemical sectors. Salaries can be higher, but you're competing with a much larger labor pool.

Insider Tip: Garland's location is its secret weapon. You're not in the big city grind, but you're close enough to chase higher-paying gigs in Dallas or Plano when needed, especially for specialized commercial work.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $63,977 sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly budget? We'll base this on a single plumber with no dependents, using standard Texas tax rates (no state income tax, but accounting for federal taxes and FICA). We'll use Garland's average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment, which is $1,291/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Plumber Earning $63,977/year

Item	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,331	$63,977 / 12 months
Federal Taxes & FICA	~$1,100	Approx. 20.6% effective tax rate for this bracket.
Net Take-Home Pay	$4,231	This is your "in-hand" money.
Rent (1-Bedroom Avg)	$1,291	Garland average.
Utilities	$200	Electricity, water, internet. Texas summers = high A/C bills.
Car Payment/Insurance	$600	Assuming a modest car payment and full coverage insurance.
Groceries & Food	$400	Groceries for one; occasional eating out.
Health Insurance	$250	Cost varies by employer.
Retirement Savings	$250	Highly recommended. 401K or IRA.
Misc. & Discretionary	$240	Gas, entertainment, clothing, tools.
Remaining Buffer	$1,000	This is your safety net and savings potential.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, with careful planning. Garland's median home price is around $300,000. With the $1,000/month buffer from our budget, you could save a $10,000 down payment in about 10 months. However, you'll need a stronger credit score and a consistent job history. Many local lenders offer FHA loans with as little as 3.5% down ($10,500 on a $300k home), which is achievable. The key is to avoid lifestyle inflation when you first arrive. Live on the budget above, and you'll build a down payment quickly.

Insider Tip: Garland's property taxes are a consideration. They average around 2.1% of the home's value. On a $300,000 home, that's about $6,300/year or $525/month in property taxes alone. Factor this into your home-buying calculations.

Where the Jobs Are: Garland's Major Employers

Garland's job market isn't just about independent contractors. The city has a diverse base of employers who need plumbing services, from large-scale facilities to residential service companies. Here’s where the work is:

1. City of Garland Public Works: This is a major source of stable, municipal work. They maintain water lines, sewer systems, and public facilities. Jobs here often come with great benefits and union protections. They hire for both in-house crews and contractors.
2. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Garland: A large hospital that needs specialized plumbers for medical gas systems, backflow prevention, and high-temperature water systems. Commercial and hospital experience is a huge plus here.
3. Arlington Independent School District (AISD) & Garland ISD: Both districts have thousands of bathrooms, kitchens, and HVAC systems to maintain. They hire maintenance plumbers and often use contracting firms for larger projects.
4. Texas Instruments (TI): While the main campus is in Dallas, their facilities in the area require industrial plumbers for clean water systems, process cooling, and facility maintenance. The work is high-tech and requires precision.
5. Local HVAC & Plumbing Companies: Companies like Scapegoat Plumbing (a local favorite for service work), Cano Plumbing, and Republic Plumbing are always looking for skilled technicians. These are often the best places to start for residential service and repair.
6. North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD): This regional agency manages water supply for Garland and 13 other cities. They have massive infrastructure projects that require plumbing expertise, especially for large-diameter pipe and pump station work.
7. The Home Depot & Lowe's: While not a plumbing employer per se, the Garland locations are hubs for local contractors. Building a relationship with the plumbing department can lead to referrals and side jobs.

Hiring Trends: There's a growing demand for plumbers who are proficient with modern technology. PEX pipe installation, tankless water heater systems, and smart home water monitoring are becoming standard. Companies are also looking for employees with OSHA 30-hour certifications, which can give you a significant edge.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a clear but rigorous path to becoming a licensed plumber, governed by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners (TSBPE). You cannot legally work as a plumber without a license.

The Process:

1. Apprenticeship: You must complete a minimum of 4 years (8,000 hours) of on-the-job training under a licensed Master Plumber, combined with 288 hours of classroom instruction. This can be done through a union apprenticeship (like the United Association) or a non-union program.
2. Journeyman License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Journeyman Plumber exam. The exam fee is $110. You must also provide proof of your completed training hours.
3. Master License: To work independently or start your own business, you need a Master Plumber license. This requires at least 2 years of experience as a Journeyman and passing the Master Plumber exam (also $110).

Total Estimated Costs to Get Licensed:

• Apprenticeship Tuition: $0 - $3,000 (many union programs are free; community college programs have fees).
• Exam Fees: $220 (Journeyman + Master).
• Licensing Fees: $150 - $300 (varies by license type and city).
• Tools & Gear: $500 - $1,500 (for your first set).

Timeline: From starting your apprenticeship to becoming a Master Plumber, you're looking at a 6-8 year journey. However, you can start earning as a Journeyman after 4 years.

Insider Tip: The TSBPE website is your best friend. Keep meticulous records of your training hours. Garland, like many cities, requires a local permit from the City of Garland Building Inspection Department for any plumbing work you perform, so get familiar with their procedures early.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Garland will affect your commute, your lifestyle, and your rent. Here are four neighborhoods that offer great balance for a working plumber.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1-BR Rent Estimate	Best For
Downtown Garland	Walkable, urban feel. Close to DART rail for commuting to Dallas. Good restaurants and a farmers market.	$1,350 - $1,500	Young plumbers who want a social scene and easy access to the city.
North Garland	Quiet, suburban, family-oriented. Close to major employers like TI and the George Bush Turnpike.	$1,150 - $1,300	Plumbers with families or those who prioritize space and quiet.
Lake Ray Hubbard Area	Scenic, with waterfront access and more upscale housing options. Close to shopping at The Harbor.	$1,400 - $1,650	Those seeking a "weekend feel" year-round and don't mind a slightly higher rent.
South Garland	Established, affordable neighborhoods with easy access to I-30 and downtown Dallas.	$1,000 - $1,200	Budget-conscious plumbers who want a short, direct commute to job sites.
Firewheel	A master-planned community with golf courses, parks, and a mix of apartments and single-family homes.	$1,250 - $1,450	Plumbers who value amenities, green spaces, and a planned community feel.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-635 (the LBJ Freeway) can be brutal during rush hour. If you plan to work in Dallas or Plano, living near a DART station (in Downtown Garland or North Garland) can be a life-saver. Also, Garland's south side often has more older homes, which means more repair and repiping work.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A plumbing career in Garland isn't just about fixing leaks. The path to higher earnings and job satisfaction lies in specialization and continuous learning.

Specialty Premiums:

• Medical Gas: Plumbers with certification in medical gas piping can earn 15-25% more than standard commercial plumbers. Hospitals like Baylor Garland are a major source of this work.
• Backflow Prevention: Certification allows you to test and repair backflow prevention devices required by law for irrigation and commercial systems. This is a steady, high-margin side business.
• Hydronic Heating & Cooling: Expertise in radiant floor heating and geothermal systems is rare and commands top dollar, especially in new construction.
• Pipe Threading & Welding: For industrial work at places like TI or NTMWD, these skills are invaluable.

Advancement Paths:

1. Service Technician to Lead Tech: Move from solo calls to managing a team and complex projects.
2. Commercial/Industrial Specialist: Shift from residential service to larger, more complex jobs with higher pay.
3. Estimator/Project Manager: Use your field knowledge to bid on jobs and manage budgets.
4. Business Owner: Start your own firm, targeting a niche like green plumbing or emergency services.

10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth is steady, but the real opportunity is in the retiring workforce. A significant portion of Texas's master plumbers are approaching retirement, creating a vacuum for skilled, licensed professionals to take over their businesses and contracts. The trend toward water conservation and green building codes will also create new demand for plumbers who are trained in these systems.

Insider Tip: Join the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of Texas. Their local meetings in the DFW area are goldmines for networking and learning about upcoming large-scale projects in Garland and beyond.

The Verdict: Is Garland Right for You?

Garland presents a compelling case for plumbers, but it's not for everyone. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Above-Average Salary ($63,977 median) for a moderate cost of living.	High Summer Heat: Working in attics and yards in 100°F+ heat is a physical challenge.
Stable, Growing Job Market (10% growth, 487 jobs).	Traffic Congestion: Commutes can be long if you work in Dallas or Plano without using DART.
Strategic Location: Close to the vast DFW job market without the Dallas price tag.	Property Taxes: Can be a significant burden for homeowners.
Diverse Work: From residential service to hospital/industrial systems.	Older Housing Stock: In some neighborhoods, this means dealing with outdated and sometimes dangerous plumbing (galvanized pipes, etc.).
Manageable Rent: $1,291/month for a 1-BR is reasonable for the area.	Competitive Market: You must be skilled and licensed to stand out.

Final Recommendation: Garland is an excellent choice for mid-career plumbers who are licensed (or close to being licensed) and want a stable, affordable base in the DFW metro. It's particularly good for those who value a suburban lifestyle with city access. For apprentices just starting out, the apprenticeship opportunities are solid, but be prepared for a 4+ year journey. For expert plumbers looking to start a business, Garland's growing population and mix of old and new housing stock offer a fertile ground. If you're willing to specialize and adapt to the heat, Garland can be a very profitable and satisfying place to build your career.

FAQs

1. Do I need a license to work as a plumber's helper in Texas?
No, you can work as a helper or apprentice under a licensed plumber without your own license. However, to perform plumbing work independently or charge for your services, you must have a Journeyman or Master Plumber license from the TSBPE.

2. What's the demand for emergency plumbing services in Garland?
Very high. Garland has a significant amount of housing built between the 1970s and 1990s. As these systems age, emergency calls for burst pipes, failed water heaters, and sewer backups are common. Companies that offer 24/7 service are always busy.

3. How is the weather for plumbing work?
Challenging. Summers are long and hot (May-October), with temperatures regularly over 95°F. This makes attic work dangerous and outdoor work exhausting. Winters are mild but can have freezing spells that cause a spike in emergency calls for burst pipes. The best working weather is spring and fall.

4. Can I make more than the median salary in Garland?
Absolutely. The $63,977 is a median, meaning half of plumbers earn more. Specializing in commercial, medical, or industrial systems, or running your own business, can push earnings well into the $80,000 - $100,000+ range. Overtime and emergency call-outs also boost income significantly.

5. Is Garland a good place to start my own plumbing business?
Yes, it's a solid market. The downside is competition from established local companies. Your best bet is to find a niche they underserve—like green plumbing, specializing in older home repipes, or offering premium