Plumber in Olathe, KS

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Plumbers considering a move to Olathe, KS.

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The Salary Picture: Where Olathe Stands

As a plumber considering Olathe, the first thing to know is that the numbers stack up well against both state and national averages. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data and local market analysis, the median annual salary for plumbers in the Olathe metropolitan area is $62,076/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.84/hour. For context, the national average for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is $63,350/year. While Olathe sits slightly below the national figure, the key is the local cost of living, which makes your dollar go further (more on that later).

The job market is stable but not explosive, with 294 jobs currently listed in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 6%. This indicates steady demand, driven by Olathe’s suburban expansion and maintenance needs in established neighborhoods.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earning potential in Olathe will follow a standard progression based on licensure and experience. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Estimated Hourly Rate	Estimated Annual Salary (40 hrs/week)
Entry-Level	0-2 years (Apprentice)	$18 - $25/hr	$37,440 - $52,000
Mid-Level	3-7 years (Journeyman)	$28 - $35/hr	$58,240 - $72,800
Senior	8-15 years (Master/Lead)	$35 - $45/hr	$72,800 - $93,600
Expert	15+ years (Specialist/Owner)	$45+/hr	$93,600+

Note: These ranges are composite estimates based on local job postings and industry standards. Overtime can significantly boost earnings, especially during peak seasons or emergency call-outs.

Comparison to Other Kansas Cities

Olathe is part of the larger Kansas City metro, which includes both Kansas and Missouri sides. Salaries for licensed plumbers are relatively consistent across the metro, but Olathe’s suburban setting often has a slightly higher demand for residential service work compared to downtown KC.

• Wichita, KS: Often slightly lower than Olathe, with a median around $58,000/year. The trade-off is a lower cost of living.
• Topeka, KS: Similar to Wichita, with a median near $59,000/year. The market is more tied to state government and institutional work.
• Kansas City, MO: The median salary is very close to Olathe’s, often hovering around $61,500/year. The larger downtown market offers more commercial/industrial projects, while Olathe is heavy on residential and light commercial.

Olathe strikes a strong balance, offering big-city pay with a more manageable, family-friendly environment.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s make the median salary tangible. Assuming a gross annual income of $62,076 for a single plumber, here’s a simplified monthly budget breakdown after taxes and essential living costs.

Assumptions:

• Taxes: ~25% combined federal, state, FICA, and local taxes (this is an estimate; consult a tax professional).
• Rent: Average 1BR rent in Olathe is $839/month.
• Utilities: ~$150/month (electric, gas, water, internet).
• Health Insurance: ~$250/month (employer-sponsored plan).
• Vehicle Costs: ~$500/month (payment, insurance, gas for a work truck).
• Retirement Savings: 5% of gross ($259/month) is crucial for long-term stability.
• Other Essentials: Food, personal, etc. (~$400/month).

Monthly Expense Category	Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,173	($62,076 / 12)
Estimated Taxes & Deductions	-$1,293	~25% of gross
Net Monthly Pay	$3,880	Take-home pay
Rent (1BR avg)	-$839
Utilities	-$150
Health Insurance	-$250
Vehicle Costs	-$500	Essential for trade mobility
Retirement Savings	-$259	5% of gross
Other Essentials	-$400	Food, personal, etc.
Remaining Discretionary	$1,482	For savings, debt, entertainment

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. With nearly $1,500/month in discretionary funds, a plumber in Olathe is in a strong position to save for a down payment. The median home price in Olathe is around $330,000. With a 10% down payment ($33,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates (~7%) would result in a monthly payment of roughly $1,900-$2,000 (including taxes/insurance). This is on the higher end of a comfortable budget, but with dual-income households (a common scenario in Olathe families) or by choosing a home in a more affordable neighborhood, it’s very feasible. Many local plumbers own homes in Olathe or nearby suburbs like Lenexa and Gardner.

Where the Jobs Are: Olathe's Major Employers

Olathe’s plumbing job market is a mix of large national companies, local family-owned firms, and specialized contractors serving the metro’s construction and service needs. Here are key players and hiring trends:

1. Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Drain Cleaning: A national leader with a strong presence in Olathe. They are consistently hiring for service plumbers and technicians. Hiring is year-round, with a focus on residential and commercial emergency services. They offer structured training and benefits, making them a good option for apprentices and journeyman plumbers.

2. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Johnson County: A franchise of the Neighborly Brand, known for its professional, truck-based service model. They emphasize customer service and offer clear career paths from apprentice to management. Hiring trends show they are always seeking reliable, licensed plumbers who can work independently.

3. Local HVAC & Plumbing Companies: Olathe has numerous mid-sized, family-owned companies that handle both HVAC and plumbing, especially for residential new construction and service. Examples include Comfort Systems and P.K. Wadsworth Heating & Cooling (which also does plumbing). These companies are deeply embedded in the community and often have long-term, loyal employees. Hiring is tied to the residential construction boom in Johnson County.

4. The University of Kansas Health System (KU Med) - Great Plains Hospital: While primarily a healthcare facility, the maintenance and facilities departments employ a number of licensed plumbers for institutional upkeep. These are stable, union-adjacent jobs with excellent benefits and a 40-hour work week, though openings are less frequent.

5. Johnson County Government: The county’s public works department maintains all county-owned buildings and infrastructure. They employ plumbers for schools, libraries, and administrative buildings. Jobs here are posted on the Johnson County Jobs website and are highly competitive but offer great benefits and job security.

6. Local Construction/Development Firms: With Olathe’s ongoing growth, companies like McCownGordon Construction (based in nearby Lenexa) and J.E. Dunn Construction (with large KC operations) often hire subcontracted plumbers for commercial projects. This is more project-based work but offers higher per-job rates for skilled commercial/industrial plumbers.

Insider Tip: The highest demand is for service and repair plumbers for homes built in the 1980s-2000s, as aging systems (especially polybutylene or old galvanized pipes) need replacement. Commercial work is strong, but residential service offers more consistent year-round income.

Getting Licensed in KS

Kansas has a structured, state-wide licensing system administered by the Kansas State Board of Technical Professions. You cannot legally work as a plumber without proper licensure.

Requirements & Costs:

• Apprenticeship: You must be registered as an apprentice. This requires a minimum of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed master plumber, typically over 4 years. There are no state-level exams for apprentices.
• Journeyman Plumber License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Journeyman Plumber Examination. The exam fee is approximately $150-$200. You must apply to the board and provide proof of 8,000 hours of work.
• Master Plumber License: Requires a minimum of 4 years as a licensed journeyman, plus passing the Master Plumber Examination (approx. $200-$250). A master plumber can own a business and supervise apprentices.
• Contractor License: If starting your own business, you need a licensed master plumber as the qualifying agent, plus a separate business license.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Find an Apprenticeship: Contact local unions (UA Local 83 for the KC area), trade schools, or directly apply to companies like Roto-Rooter or local contractors for an apprentice position. This is the hardest and most important step.
2. Register with the State: Once hired, your employer will typically help you register as an apprentice with the state board.
3. Complete Training: Work your 8,000 hours while attending any required classroom instruction (many apprenticeships include this).
4. Take the Exam: After your hours are verified, apply for the journeyman exam. Study with resources from the International Code Council (ICC) and the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO).
5. Total Cost: Expect to spend $500-$1,000 total for exams, application fees, and study materials before you’re a licensed journeyman.

Insider Tip: The Kansas City Metro (both KS and MO sides) is a unified job market. Many plumbers hold licenses in both states, which doubles their opportunities. The Missouri licensing process is different but often pursued by local professionals.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Living in Olathe is about balancing commute, lifestyle, and cost. As a plumber, you’ll likely have a work truck, so a garage or secure parking is a plus. Here are neighborhoods to consider:

1. Central Olathe (Downtown/Heritage Park Area):

   • Vibe: Historic charm, walkable, close to restaurants and parks. Mix of older homes (1920s-1950s) needing constant repair work and newer apartments.
   • Commute: Central to everything. Easy access to I-35, I-435, and downtown Olathe jobs. 10-20 minutes to most major employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR. Home prices are higher here for historic properties.
   • Best For: Plumbers who want a short commute and a vibrant, central lifestyle. The older housing stock means more repair work is always nearby.

2. South Olathe (135th St & Black Bob Rd):

   • Vibe: Established, family-oriented suburbs with larger lots and mature trees. Mostly single-family homes from the 1980s-2000s.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to most jobs. Easy access to US-169 and I-35. Well-connected but can have traffic on 135th St during rush hour.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000/month for a 1BR apartment. Home prices are more affordable than the center or east side.
   • Best For: Plumbers with families or those who prefer a quieter, suburban environment. The housing stock here is a prime source of service work as systems age.

3. East Olathe (151st St & Mur-Len Rd):

   • Vibe: Newer, master-planned communities (e.g., Stonebridge, Cedar Creek). Very clean, with parks and schools.
   • Commute: 20-30 minutes to downtown Olathe or Kansas City. Can feel more isolated from the core, but highways are improving.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR (often in newer complexes).
   • Best For: Plumbers who want a newer home/apartment and don’t mind a slightly longer commute. Commercial work is growing in this direction as development continues.

4. West Olathe (119th St & Olathe Blvd):

   • Vibe: A mix of older, affordable neighborhoods and modern apartments. Close to the well-regarded Johnson County Community College (JCCC).
   • Commute: Excellent. 10-15 minutes to I-35, 15 to I-435. Very central.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR. One of the more affordable areas.
   • Best For: Plumbers starting out or who want to minimize rent costs. The proximity to JCCC can also be useful if you need to take supplementary courses.

Insider Tip: Look for rentals or homes with a garage or a large driveway. Parking a service truck on the street can be a hassle in some older neighborhoods and may violate HOA rules in newer ones.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A plumber’s career in Olathe can be linear or specialized, with clear paths to higher income.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Gas Line Work: Plumbers with a gas-fitter endorsement can earn 10-15% more on average, as Olathe homes heavily rely on natural gas for heating and cooking.
  • Medical Gas: A certified medical gas installer ($1,000+ for certification) can work on high-value projects at hospitals like KU Med, commanding premium rates.
  • Commercial/Industrial Piping: Moving from residential service to commercial projects often means joining a union (UA Local 83) and earning a higher wage package (wage + benefits). This is a common path for those seeking top-tier earnings.
  • Business Ownership: Master Plumbers who start their own small service company in Olathe can see income jump to $100,000+ after a few years, though it comes with the overhead of running a business.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Apprentice → Journeyman: The first big jump in pay and independence.
  2. Journeyman → Lead Tech/Specialist: Focus on complex installs, emergency services, or a specific trade (like hydronic heating).
  3. Lead Tech → Service Manager/Owner: Transition to managing a team, running a branch, or starting your own company.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth is solid, driven by Olathe’s population growth (metro pop: 147,466) and the aging infrastructure of its suburbs. The demand for water-efficient systems, tankless water heaters, and whole-house re-pipes will remain strong. Plumbers who adapt to new technologies (like PEX piping systems and touchless fixtures) and maintain strong customer service skills will have the most opportunities. The trend is toward more “service and maintenance” contracts, providing steady income beyond one-off jobs.

The Verdict: Is Olathe Right for You?

Olathe offers a compelling package for a plumber: a stable job market, a cost of living that stretches your salary, and a family-friendly environment. It’s not a place of booming growth like some Sun Belt cities, but it’s a reliable, well-paying market with long-term security.

Pros	Cons
Cost of Living Index: 93.3 (US avg=100). Your $62,076 salary goes further here than in most metro areas.	Job growth is steady but not explosive. You won’t see the frantic hiring booms of Texas or Florida.
Stable, Diverse Job Market. 294 jobs and a mix of residential service, commercial, and institutional work.	Winters can be cold. Frozen pipes are a seasonal rush, but outdoor work slows down in Jan-Feb.
Excellent Schools & Family Life. Olathe is consistently ranked high for schools and quality of life in the KC metro.	Car-dependent city. You will need to drive to every job site (which is normal for a plumber).
Central Location. Easy access to Kansas City for entertainment, sports, and additional job opportunities in the metro.	Kansas state licensing is mandatory and requires a multi-year apprenticeship. It’s a barrier to entry but ensures quality.
Strong Housing Market for Buyers. With a median salary, homeownership is a realistic goal within a few years.	The culture is suburban and conservative. It may not suit those seeking a dense, urban nightlife.

Final Recommendation:
Olathe is an excellent choice for plumbers at the Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master levels who value stability, a lower cost of living, and a high quality of life. It’s particularly well-suited for those with