Plumber in Green Bay, WI

The Salary Picture: Where Green Bay Stands

Let's cut right to the numbers, because that's what matters when you're weighing a move. As a plumber considering Green Bay, you're looking at a market that pays slightly less than the national average but offers a significantly lower cost of living. The median salary for a plumber in the Green Bay metro area is $61,848 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.73 per hour. Compare that to the national average for plumbers, which sits at $63,350 per year, and you see a slight dip of about 2.4%. However, this local data comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and reflects the specific economic conditions of the Green Bay metro, which has a population of 105,734.

The real story here isn't the nominal salary; it's the purchasing power. With a cost of living index of 92.1 (where the U.S. average is 100), your dollar stretches further here than in most of the country. The local job market is stable, with an estimated 211 jobs specifically for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection for this field is 6%, which is steady and reliable, driven by an aging housing stock and constant commercial development along the Fox River corridor.

Here's how salary typically breaks down by experience level in this market:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary	What the Work Looks Like
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$42,000 - $52,000	Apprentice work, assisting journeymen, basic service calls, rough-ins for new construction.
Mid-Level	2-7 years	$55,000 - $68,000	Independent service calls, complex repairs, leading small crews on commercial jobs.
Senior-Level	7-15 years	$68,000 - $80,000+	Project management, specialized system design (HVAC, medical gas), troubleshooting complex issues.
Expert/Owner	15+ years	$80,000 - $100,000+	Business ownership, master plumbing consulting, municipal or industrial specialist roles.

Insider Tip: The jump from mid to senior level often hinges on certifications beyond the state license—think backflow prevention, medical gas, or hydronic heating systems. These specialties are in high demand for the region's healthcare and manufacturing sectors.

How does Green Bay stack up against other Wisconsin cities? It sits comfortably in the mid-range. Milwaukee and Madison, with their larger metros and higher costs of living, offer median salaries closer to the national average ($63,000+). However, the gap in rent and home prices is substantial. In Green Bay, you're trading a slightly lower top-end salary for a dramatically lower overhead. It's a classic value proposition: less stress on the wallet, more stability in the job market.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Understanding your net income is crucial. Let's build a realistic monthly budget for a plumber earning the median salary of $61,848. This is a practical look at what your life looks like in Green Bay.

First, the take-home pay. After federal taxes, FICA (Social Security and Medicare), and Wisconsin state income taxes (a progressive system), a single filer with no dependents can expect to take home roughly 73-75% of gross pay. For our median plumber, that's approximately $3,800 - $3,900 per month.

Now, let's allocate that. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Green Bay is $841 per month. This is a key data point from which we build the rest of the budget.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Salary: $61,848)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Monthly Income	$3,850	Post-tax estimate.
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$841	Citywide average.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Internet)	$200	Varies by season (heating costs in winter).
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Assume a modest used truck/van payment.
Fuel & Maintenance	$150	Commute costs.
Groceries & Household	$400
Health Insurance	$250	If not fully covered by employer.
Retirement Savings	$200	401(k) match is common.
Miscellaneous/Discretionary	$359	Dining out, entertainment, hobbies.
Total Expenses	$2,850
Remaining Cash Flow	$1,000	For debt, savings, or extra spending.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is where Green Bay becomes very attractive. With a monthly surplus of around $1,000, a plumber on the median salary is in a strong position to save for a down payment. The median home price in Green Bay is approximately $230,000. A 10% down payment ($23,000) is achievable within 2-3 years of disciplined saving. With your remaining cash flow, a monthly mortgage payment on a $207,000 loan (assuming a 30-year fixed at 6.5%) would be around $1,300, including taxes and insurance. This payment would be about 34% of your gross monthly income—a common benchmark lenders use. For a dual-income household, this becomes even easier. Insider Tip: Look at homes in the Allouez or Ashwaubenon neighborhoods for a first-time buyer. The stock is solid, and you're close to major employers.

Where the Jobs Are: Green Bay's Major Employers

The plumbing job market here isn't just about residential service calls. It's a mix of construction, industrial, and institutional work. The major employers are a mix of national players and strong local firms.

1. Bay Area Mechanical: A local giant, this company handles large commercial and industrial projects, including work for the healthcare sector. They're a prime employer for journeyman plumbers with experience in complex systems. Hiring trends show they're consistently growing, especially with the expansion of medical facilities.

2. McClone Mechanical: Another major mechanical contractor, McClone does significant work in the industrial and manufacturing sectors, including for Georgia-Pacific (a massive local employer) and Schneider National. They value plumbers with welding certifications and experience in high-pressure systems.

3. Green Bay Packaging / Norcon: These are major local manufacturers with on-site facilities teams that hire plumbers and pipefitters for maintenance and plant upgrades. These are steady, often union (UA Local 400) jobs with excellent benefits and pension plans.

4. Bellin Health & Aurora BayCare Medical Center: The two major healthcare systems in the city. Their facilities departments employ plumbers for ongoing maintenance, renovation projects, and specialized systems (medical gas, deionized water). This is a stable, year-round employment sector.

5. City of Green Bay & Brown County: Municipal plumbing jobs are competitive but offer incredible job security, a full benefits package, and a pension. Work includes water main repairs, sewer line maintenance, and public facility upkeep. Keep an eye on the City's website for openings.

6. Residential & Service Firms: Companies like Geno's Plumbing, A-1 Sewer & Drain, and Pfefferle Heating & Plumbing are always looking for licensed service plumbers. These roles are often commission-based, so high performers can earn well above the median, especially during the busy summer and fall seasons.

Hiring Trends: The market is tight for experienced, licensed plumbers. The 6% growth is real, but it's also driven by retirements from the baby boomer generation. Companies are actively recruiting and offering signing bonuses for journeymen plumbers. The push toward energy-efficient systems (heat pumps, high-efficiency boilers) is also creating demand for plumbers with HVAC cross-training.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin has a clear, structured path to licensure, regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). It's not the fastest process, but it's straightforward.

The Path:

1. Apprenticeship: Complete a state-approved 4-year apprenticeship program, which requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction.
2. Journeyman License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Wisconsin Journeyman Plumber exam. This is a comprehensive test on the Wisconsin Plumbing Code.
3. Master Plumber License: To open your own business or work as a supervising plumber, you need a Master Plumber license. This requires at least 5 years as a licensed journeyman and passing another state exam.

Costs & Timeline:

• Apprenticeship Tuition: Varies by program, but can range from $2,000 - $5,000 over 4 years. Many employers will reimburse this cost.
• Exam Fees: The journeyman exam fee is approximately $150, and the master exam is similar.
• Licensing Fees: Initial journeyman license is around $120, renewed every 2 years.

Insider Tip: The most common path is to secure an apprenticeship with a union (Local 400) or non-union contractor before you move. They will sponsor your education. If you're moving with a journeyman license from another state, Wisconsin has reciprocity with many states, but you'll still need to apply and may need to take the state code exam. Always check the DSPS website for the most current reciprocity agreements.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Green Bay affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. The city is divided by the Fox River, with distinct vibes on each side.

1. Downtown / Astor Park: The most urban feel. You're close to the "Shipyard" district, restaurants, and Lambeau Field. Commute to any employer is under 15 minutes. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100 for a 1BR. Best for: A young plumber who wants nightlife and a walkable lifestyle.

2. Ashwaubenon: A major suburb west of the river. Home to the Resch Center, multiple hotels, and a booming commercial corridor. Very easy access to I-43. Rent Estimate: $775 - $950 for a 1BR. Best for: A plumber who values convenience, modern amenities, and a short commute to industrial parks.

3. Allouez: A quiet, established suburb south of the city. Features tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and a strong community feel. A 10-15 minute commute to most worksites. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a 1BR. Best for: A plumber looking for a family-friendly environment with easy access to both the city and natural areas like the Fox River Trail.

4. De Pere: Technically its own city, but part of the metro. Located just southwest of Green Bay, it has a vibrant, small-town downtown (on the river) and a mix of older homes and new developments. Commute is 10-20 minutes. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR. Best for: A plumber seeking a slightly slower pace with a strong sense of community.

5. East Side (Near Bay Beach): The eastern part of the city, closer to Lake Michigan. More residential, with older housing stock. Commute can be longer (15-25 mins) if you work west of the river. Rent Estimate: $700 - $900 for a 1BR. Best for: A plumber who loves outdoor recreation (Bay Beach Amusement Park, wildlife sanctuary) and doesn't mind a longer commute.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your long-term earning potential in Green Bay is solid if you specialize and take on leadership roles.

• Specialty Premiums: Adding a backflow prevention certification can add $3-$5/hour to your rate. Medical gas certification is crucial for hospital work and commands a significant premium. Hydronic heating systems expertise is valuable for the region's cold winters.
• Advancement Paths: The standard path is Journeyman -> Lead Technician -> Service Manager or Project Manager. The entrepreneurial path is strong; many experienced plumbers start their own one- or two-person service companies after 10-15 years.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% growth is steady. The biggest shifts will be toward "green" plumbing—water-efficient fixtures, greywater systems, and radiant heating. Plumbers who adapt will see the highest demand. Union plumbers (UA Local 400) will see continued work on large-scale commercial and industrial projects, including potential new developments tied to the Port of Green Bay.

The Verdict: Is Green Bay Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Excellent Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further, making homeownership realistic.	Harsh Winters: The plumbing work can be physically demanding in sub-zero temperatures, especially for service calls on frozen pipes.
Stable Job Market: A steady 6% growth and demand from healthcare, manufacturing, and an aging housing stock.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: Compared to Milwaukee or Madison, the cultural and entertainment options are more limited.
Moderate Commutes: You can live almost anywhere and be at work in 15-20 minutes.	Slightly Lower Pay Ceiling: Top-end salaries may be lower than in larger metro areas, though the cost-of-living adjustment favors Green Bay.
Strong Union Presence: UA Local 400 offers great benefits and pension for those who join.	Seasonal Work Cycles: Residential service can slow in deep winter, though commercial work remains steady.
Work-Life Balance: The pace is generally less frantic than in major cities.	Dependence on Major Employers: The economy is tied to a few large players (healthcare, paper, trucking).

Final Recommendation: Green Bay is an excellent choice for a plumber who values stability, affordability, and a strong work-life balance over the highest possible salary. It's ideal for a mid-career plumber looking to buy a home, raise a family, and build a long-term career without the financial stress of a major coastal city. It's less ideal for a young, single plumber seeking a vibrant, 24/7 urban scene. For the right person, it's a place where you can own a small business, own a home, and craft a sustainable life.

FAQs

1. I'm a licensed journeyman from another state. How hard is it to get licensed in Wisconsin?
It depends on reciprocity. Wisconsin has reciprocity with many states, but not all. You'll need to apply to the DSPS, provide proof of your current license and experience, and may be required to take the Wisconsin-specific plumbing code exam. Always contact the DSPS directly first.

2. What's the biggest challenge for plumbers in Green Bay?
The physical demands of winter. Emergency service calls in January when it's -10°F are part of the job. You'll need the right gear (insulated tools, heated vans) and the resilience to work in extreme cold. Also, the old housing stock means you'll encounter a lot of galvanized pipe and cast iron sewer lines, requiring skill in repair and replacement.

3. Is the union strong in Green Bay?
Yes. UA Local 400 is very active and represents plumbers and pipefitters across northeast Wisconsin. Union jobs typically offer higher total compensation (insurance, pension, annuity) and are common on large commercial and industrial projects. Non-union residential and service work is also plentiful.

4. How does the job market for plumbers compare to other skilled trades in Green Bay?
It's among the most stable. Electricians and HVAC techs are also in high demand, but plumbing is a constant need—new construction, remodels, and repairs never stop. The aging workforce in all trades creates opportunities, but plumbing's essential nature gives it a slight edge in year-round stability.

5. What's a realistic timeline to move and get established?
Plan for 3-6 months. If you're already a licensed journeyman, start applying to employers 2-3 months before your move. If you need an apprenticeship or to secure a job before licensing, it could take longer. Securing housing can be done quickly; the rental market is relatively fluid. Insider tip: The best time to move for a job is spring or early summer, when construction and remodeling projects ramp up.