Plumber in Greenville, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Greenville Stands

Let's cut right to it: the money. In Greenville, MS, a career as a plumber isn't about striking it rich, but about building a stable, middle-class life where your paycheck goes a lot further than it does almost anywhere else in the country. The median salary for a plumber here is $60,309/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.99/hour. To put this in perspective, the national average for plumbers is $63,350/year. You're earning slightly less than the national figure, but with a cost of living in Greenville that's 16% lower than the U.S. average, that difference evaporates fast.

The local job market is tight but stable. There are roughly 57 plumbing jobs in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth projection is a modest but steady 6%. This isn't a booming metropolis with endless new construction, but a historic river town with a core need for maintenance, repair, and occasional new work on the older housing stock.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in the Greenville area. These figures are estimates based on local data and industry standards.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (Apprentice)	$38,000 - $45,000	$18.27 - $21.63
Mid-Level (Journeyman)	$55,000 - $68,000	$26.44 - $32.69
Senior-Level (Master)	$70,000 - $85,000+	$33.65 - $40.87
Expert/Owner-Operator	$90,000+ (variable)	$43.27+

How does Greenville stack up against other Mississippi cities? It's a mixed bag. You'll earn less than a plumber in the Jackson or Gulfport-Biloxi metros, where larger populations and more commercial work drive wages up. However, Greenville's lower cost of living (84.0 index vs. national 100) means your dollar stretches further. In cities like Hattiesburg or Starkville, salaries might be similar, but Greenville's unique position on the Mississippi River offers niche opportunities in industrial and agricultural plumbing that you won't find elsewhere.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. In Greenville, many plumbers, especially those working for small, local companies, receive a take-home vehicle allowance or a company truck. This can save you $5,000-$8,000 annually on vehicle costs, essentially boosting your real income.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

So, what does a plumber earning the median salary of $60,309 actually take home each month after Uncle Sam and the landlord get their share? Let's run the numbers for a single filer in Mississippi for 2024.

• Gross Annual Salary: $60,309
• Estimated Federal Tax (after standard deduction): ~$5,500
• Mississippi State Tax: ~$2,700
• FICA (7.65%): ~$4,614
• Total Annual Taxes: ~$12,814
• Annual Take-Home Pay: ~$47,495
• Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$3,958

Now, factor in the rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Greenville costs $714/month. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a plumber earning the median income:

Expense Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR Rent)	$714	This is the city average; specific neighborhoods vary.
Utilities	$180 - $220	Includes electricity, water, gas, and trash. The Gulf South humidity means AC costs.
Groceries	$350	For a single person, cooking at home is key.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400 - $600	A reliable truck is a job requirement. Insurance is moderate in Mississippi.
Fuel	$150 - $200	Commutes can be longer in a spread-out city.
Health Insurance	$200 - $300	If provided by employer, your share is lower.
Miscellaneous & Savings	$500 - $700	Phone, entertainment, emergency fund, retirement.
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses	$2,494 - $3,084	This leaves a buffer for savings or debt.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, and this is a major advantage of living in Greenville. With a take-home of ~$3,958 and expenses around $2,800, you'd have over $1,100/month for a mortgage. In Greenville's current market, the median home price is approximately $120,000 - $130,000. A 20% down payment is tough ($24k-$26k), but with an FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$4,200-$4,550), a monthly mortgage (including taxes and insurance) could easily be under $900/month. For a plumber with steady work, buying a home is not just possible—it's a smart financial move that builds equity instead of paying rent.

Where the Jobs Are: Greenville's Major Employers

The plumbing trade in Greenville is driven by a mix of local contractors, industrial facilities, and public institutions. Here are the key players where you're most likely to find steady, well-paying work:

1. Bissell Heating & Air Conditioning: A giant in the Delta for HVAC and plumbing services. They are one of the largest employers for skilled trades in the region and frequently hire apprentices and journeymen. They offer structured training and benefits. Hiring trends show a steady need for technicians as the population ages and older homes require system replacements.

2. Mississippi Valley Health System (MVHS): This is the region's primary healthcare provider, including the Delta Regional Medical Center. Hospitals have massive, complex plumbing and medical gas systems that require specialized, licensed plumbers for maintenance and emergency repairs. These are stable, salaried positions with excellent benefits.

3. The City of Greenville Public Works Department: Municipal jobs are gold in the trades. The city hires plumbers for water/sewer line maintenance, public building repairs, and infrastructure projects. These positions come with a pension, job security, and often a union affiliation (Local 327). It's a competitive hiring process, but worth it for the long-term benefits.

4. Pafford Medical Services: As a major supplier and service provider for EMS and healthcare, they maintain a fleet of emergency vehicles and facilities. Their in-house maintenance team includes plumbers for their office buildings and specialized vehicle modifications.

5. Delta Oil & Refining (or local industrial plants): Greenville's industrial base along the river includes chemical plants, grain elevators, and refineries. These facilities require industrial/commercial plumbers for process piping, valve maintenance, and facility upkeep. The pay is often at the higher end of the scale due to the specialized skills and safety protocols required.

6. Local Residential Contractors: There are dozens of small, family-owned construction and remodeling companies. Companies like Wright Construction or Gibbs & Sons often hire subcontract plumbers. Building relationships with these contractors is key for consistent work, especially in the growing suburbs like the North End.

Insider Tip: The "Delta Regional Medical Center" job board is a great place to look, but also check the City of Greenville's official website under "Employment Opportunities." Municipal jobs aren't always advertised on big job boards. For industrial work, sometimes you have to walk into the plant's office and ask for the maintenance supervisor.

Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi requires all plumbers to be licensed, and the process is straightforward but regulated by the Mississippi State Board of Plumbing and Heating Contractors. You cannot legally work as a plumber without a license.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Apprenticeship: You must complete a 4-year, 8,000-hour apprenticeship under a licensed master plumber. This is typically done through a union (UA Local 327) or a non-union registered apprenticeship program.
2. Journeyman Exam: After completing your apprenticeship, you apply to take the journeyman plumber exam. The exam covers the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and Mississippi state amendments.
3. Master Plumber License: To become a master plumber (and own your own business), you need to hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years, then pass the master plumber exam.

Costs & Timeline:

• Apprenticeship Program: Often free or low-cost (union dues may apply, ~$100-$200/month). You earn while you learn.
• Licensing Exam Fee: Approximately $150 for the journeyman/master exam.
• Application Fee: $50 (non-refundable).
• Total Initial Licensing Cost: Under $200 if you go through an apprenticeship program.
• Timeline: It takes a minimum of 4 years to get your journeyman license. A master license requires at least 6 years total.

Insider Tip: The Mississippi State Board's website has a list of all licensed plumbers in the state. Use it to find a master plumber in Greenville who is willing to sponsor an apprentice. This is often the fastest way to get started. Also, the Mississippi Code 73-9-13 outlines the laws clearly—read it to know your rights and obligations.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Greenville is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different vibe and commute. Here’s where to look based on lifestyle and work location.

1. The North End (Off Mississippi 82): This is the fastest-growing area with new subdivisions, big-box stores, and modern apartment complexes. It's where most of the new residential construction is happening. Commute to industrial jobs along the river is about 15-20 minutes. Rent Estimate: A modern 1BR in a complex here runs $750 - $850/month.

2. Downtown Historic District: Living here means walking to the Delta Blues Museum, restaurants, and the riverfront. It's charming but has older housing stock (great for repair work). Commute to any job is short. Rent Estimate: Older 1BR apartments or apartments in converted buildings go for $650 - $750/month.

3. South Greenville (Off Highway 82 West): More affordable housing, a mix of older homes and newer developments. It's a quiet, residential area with a longer commute to downtown but easy access to the highway. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments and small houses can be found for $600 - $700/month.

4. The Parkside/Mississippi Valley State University Area: Near the university, this area has a younger vibe and a mix of student rentals and family homes. It's a good area for finding rental properties that need renovation, which could be a side hustle for a plumber. Rent Estimate: $650 - $750/month.

Commute Insight: Traffic in Greenville is minimal. A 20-minute drive is considered a long commute. Most plumbers live within a 15-minute radius of their job site. Living in the North End gives you the best access to both residential work and the industrial corridor.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Greenville, career growth for a plumber is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about gaining specialized skills and reputation. The path to a six-figure income is through specialization and ownership.

Specialty Premiums:

• Industrial/Commercial Plumbing: Specializing in high-pressure systems, medical gas, or process piping in a plant can add $10-$15/hour to your wage, pushing you toward the $85,000+ range.
• Gas Fitting: Mississippi requires a separate gas fitter endorsement. Plumbers with this license are in high demand for new construction and furnace installations. It can increase your earnings by 15-20%.
• Backflow Prevention Testing: A certification from the American Backflow Prevention Association can open doors to servicing the hundreds of commercial and agricultural properties that require annual testing. This is often side-work that pays $100-$200 per test.

Advancement Paths:

1. From Apprentice to Journeyman: The first 4 years. You're learning code, tools, and safety.
2. From Journeyman to Master: The next 2+ years. You're now supervising jobs, pulling permits, and can bid on work.
3. Owner-Operator: The ultimate goal. With a master license, you can start your own one- or two-person shop. In Greenville, a successful, reputable plumbing business can net the owner $90,000 - $120,000+ annually after expenses, especially if you focus on residential service calls and small remodels.

10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth is steady. The key driver will be the aging housing stock in Greenville (many homes from the 1950s-70s) and the constant need to maintain the city's water and sewer infrastructure. Plumbers who are reliable, communicative, and build a strong local reputation will never be short of work. The rise of "smart home" plumbing (leak detection systems, tankless water heaters) also creates a niche for tech-savvy plumbers.

The Verdict: Is Greenville Right for You?

Greenville offers a compelling, if not flashy, career path for apprentices and journeyman plumbers. It's a place of practicality and value, where your trade is respected and can support a comfortable life.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $60,309 salary goes much further than in most cities.	Limited Upscale Housing: The rental and home market is basic; don't expect luxury apartments.
Strong Demand for Your Skills: Older homes and industrial infrastructure ensure steady work.	Geographic Isolation: It's a 1.5-hour drive to Jackson or Memphis for major airport or entertainment.
Opportunity for Ownership: A realistic path to a 6-figure income as a master plumber with your own business.	Weather: Hot, humid summers and the occasional risk of flooding from the Mississippi River.
Tight-Knit Trade Community: It's easy to build a reputation and network with other tradespeople.	Slower Pace: If you crave a bustling, metropolitan vibe, Greenville will feel quiet.
Easy Commutes & Parking: No traffic stress, and you'll never hunt for a parking spot.	Limited Cultural Diversity: The social scene is traditional and centered around local community and family.

Final Recommendation: Greenville, MS, is an excellent choice for a plumber who values stability, affordability, and work-life balance over high-stress, high-reward city markets. It's ideal for someone who wants to buy a home early, start a family, and build a long-term career in a community where they are needed and valued. If you're willing to specialize and eventually get your master license, you can build a very prosperous life here. For a plumber who wants to climb the fastest-moving ladder in the biggest city, look elsewhere. But for a grounded, sustainable career, the Delta is calling.

FAQs

Q: Is the plumbing work seasonal in Greenville?
A: The core work is not seasonal. Emergency repairs and maintenance happen year-round. However, new construction and major remodels often peak in the spring and fall, avoiding the worst of the summer heat and winter freezes.

Q: How do I find an apprenticeship sponsor in Greenville?
A: Start by contacting the local union, UA Local 327, which covers the Delta region. If you prefer non-union, visit the Mississippi State Board of Plumbing and Heating Contractors website for a list of licensed master plumbers in the 38701 and 38703 zip codes. Call them directly and ask if they're taking on apprentices. Persistence is key.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for plumbers in Greenville?
A: Two things: First, the clay soil can cause significant pipe shifting and breakage, especially in older neighborhoods. Second, the humidity and heat can make attic work brutal in the summer. Staying hydrated and having a good ventilation fan in your work truck is essential.

Q: Can I work as a plumber in Greenville with a license from another state?
A: Mississippi does not have reciprocity with other states. You must go through the Mississippi licensing process. However, your out-of-state experience will help you pass the exams, and your apprenticeship hours may be accepted if properly documented. Contact the Mississippi State Board directly for an evaluation.

Q: Is there a demand for green plumbing technologies?
A: Yes, growing. With the push for water conservation, there's increasing demand for plumbers who can install low-flow fixtures, tankless water heaters, and water filtration systems. Getting certified in these systems can set you apart from competitors.

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, State of Mississippi Department of Employment Security, Mississippi State Board of Plumbing and Heating Contractors, Zillow Rental Market Data, and local industry reports.