The Complete Career Guide for Plumbers in Plymouth, Minnesota

The Salary Picture: Where Plymouth Stands

Let's cut straight to the numbers. In Plymouth, the median salary for a plumber is $64,205/year, translating to an hourly rate of $30.87/hour. This is a slight but meaningful step above the national average of $63,350/year. For a trade where every dollar counts, that 1.4% premium over the national figure matters, especially when you factor in the cost of living and local demand.

The real story here is the stability. While the national landscape can be volatile, Plymouth’s position in the Twin Cities metro—with a population of 77,638—creates a consistent need for skilled tradespeople. The 10-year job growth is projected at 6%, which is solid, if not explosive. It signals a steady market, not a boom-and-bust cycle. With 155 plumbing jobs currently in the metro area, you're looking at a market that's large enough to offer choice but small enough that you're not just another number in a massive pool.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Plumbing salaries in Plymouth follow a clear progression. Your earning potential is directly tied to years in the trade, licensure, and specialization. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

Level	Years of Experience	Typical Annual Salary (Plymouth, MN)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years (Apprentice)	$42,000 - $52,000	Basic installation, routine service calls, assisting journeymen, learning local codes.
Mid-Level	3-7 years (Journeyman)	$60,000 - $72,000	Leading job sites, complex diagnostics, water heater installs, code-compliant repairs.
Senior-Level	8-15 years (Master/License Holder)	$75,000 - $90,000+	Project management, estimating, mentoring apprentices, commercial projects, backflow testing.
Expert/Specialist	15+ years (Owner/Expert)	$90,000 - $120,000+	Business ownership, complex system design (medical gas, fire suppression), consulting.

Comparison to Other Minnesota Cities

Plymouth’s salary holds up well within the local market. It’s not the highest, but its cost-of-living advantage makes it competitive.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Real Wage Value
Plymouth, MN	$64,205	104.5	Strong
Minneapolis, MN	$67,500	107.1	Moderate
St. Paul, MN	$66,200	105.8	Moderate
Rochester, MN	$65,100	102.3	Good
Duluth, MN	$59,800	97.5	Good (Low COL)

Insider Tip: While Minneapolis might offer a slightly higher raw salary, the commute into downtown can eat 30-45 minutes each way. Working in or near Plymouth often means more billable hours and less unpaid drive time, which can effectively boost your hourly earnings.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be pragmatic. Earning $64,205/year is one thing; living on it is another. Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single plumber in Plymouth.

• Gross Monthly Income: $5,350
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~22% | -$1,177
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$4,173/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Average 1BR Apartment):

Expense Category	Average Cost (Plymouth, MN)	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,201	Market average. Newer buildings near Arbor Lakes will be higher (~$1,350+). Older complexes off Highway 55 or Vicksburg Ln can be closer to $1,050.
Utilities (Heat, Elec, Water, Internet)	$250	Minnesota winters impact heating bills. Budget more from Nov-Mar.
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Essential in Plymouth. Public transit (Plymouth Metrolink) is limited.
Groceries	$350	Shop at Cub Foods on Vicksburg or Target at Arbor Lakes.
Health Insurance (if not through employer)	$300	Varies widely; many trades offer union or company plans.
Miscellaneous/Discretionary	$600	Food, entertainment, savings.
TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES	$3,151
Remaining (Savings/Debt)	$1,022

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, but it requires discipline. Based on the above, a plumber earning the median could save about $12,000/year. A typical Plymouth starter home (3BR/2BA, ~1,600 sq ft) in a neighborhood like West Medicine Lake Park or Hollydale ranges from $350,000 to $425,000.

With a $12,000 annual savings rate, you could realistically save a 5% down payment ($17,500-$21,250) in about 18-22 months. However, this would require a tight budget and likely no major car payments. Many local plumbers in their early 30s are homeowners, but it often comes after a few years of journeyman wages and dual-income households.

Insider Tip: Look for homes in the 1200s neighborhood area (south of Highway 55). These are older, more affordable homes that are still in the Plymouth school district and have good resale value. They often need some DIY love, which a plumber can handle.

Where the Jobs Are: Plymouth's Major Employers

Plymouth’s economy is anchored by healthcare, retail, and a large number of small-to-mid-sized trade companies. You won't find massive industrial plants, but you will find consistent, reliable work.

1. Twin Cities Orthopedics (TCO) - Plymouth Clinic: A major employer in the region. While they have their in-house facilities team, they also contract with large mechanical and plumbing firms for clinic expansions, patient room updates, and medical gas system maintenance. Hiring Trend: Steady, project-based work through contractors.

2. Hennepin Healthcare (Plymouth Medical Center): Similar to TCO, this is a significant source of institutional plumbing work. They have a dedicated maintenance staff but rely on local contractors for larger projects (renovations, new wings) and specialized services like backflow prevention and commercial water heater systems.

3. The Plymouth Fire Department & City of Plymouth Public Works: The city itself is a direct employer. They hire plumbers for municipal projects, park facility maintenance, and water/sewer line work. These are often union positions (LIUNA or AFSCME) with excellent benefits. Hiring Trend: Competitive, with openings posted on the city's HR page. Experience with large-diameter pipe and excavation is a plus.

4. Local Commercial Contractors (e.g., RJM Construction, Mortenson): While their headquarters may be in Minneapolis, their project sites are all over the metro, including Plymouth. These large GCs hire plumbing subcontractors. If you're a journeyman or master plumber with commercial experience, this is where you'll find high-paying, project-based work.

5. Residential Service Companies (e.g., Metro Heating & Plumbing, Genz-Ryan): These are the workhorses for residential service. They are always looking for licensed plumbers to handle service calls, installations, and maintenance contracts. Pay is often base + commission. Hiring Trend: Constant. They struggle to find enough qualified techs, especially in winter.

6. The Home Depot & Lowe's (Plymouth Locations): These big-box stores have installation services for appliances, water heaters, and small repairs. They contract with local plumbers. It’s not a full-time gig, but it can be a great source of side revenue or entry-level experience for an apprentice.

7. Arbor Lakes Retail District: This massive shopping and dining hub requires constant maintenance plumbing work. Many of the restaurants and stores have contracts with local plumbing companies for grease trap cleaning, fixture repairs, and preventative maintenance.

Getting Licensed in Minnesota

Minnesota’s licensing is managed by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI). It’s a structured path.

1. Apprenticeship (4 Years): You must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction. You apply for an apprentice plumber registration with the DLI. Most apprentices work for a licensed master plumber or contractor.
2. Journeyman License: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Minnesota Journeyman Plumber Exam (based on the International Plumbing Code). The exam fee is $114 as of 2023. There is no additional state license fee.
3. Master Plumber License: Requires at least 4 years as a licensed journeyman. You must pass the Master Plumber Exam (fee: $114). This is required if you want to run your own plumbing business or pull permits in your own name.

Total Estimated Cost to License (excluding tuition): $230 in exam fees, plus the cost of code books and study materials ($150-$300).

Timeline to Get Started: You can begin working as an apprentice immediately upon securing a job with a licensed contractor. The journeyman license takes a minimum of 4 years. The master license, an additional 4+ years.

Insider Tip: The Plumbers Local 34 union in the Twin Cities offers a highly regarded apprenticeship program with structured training and excellent benefits. It's a competitive program to get into, but it’s the gold standard for many in the trade.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are four solid options for a plumber in Plymouth.

1. Arbor Lakes Area (Newer, Upscale):

   • Vibe: Modern apartments and townhomes, walkable to shops and restaurants. Close to the I-494 and Highway 55 interchange.
   • Commute: Excellent. You can be at most job sites in Plymouth or Minnetonka in 10-15 minutes.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,350 - $1,600 for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Younger plumbers who value convenience and want to be near the action.

2. West Medicine Lake Park (Established, Family):

   • Vibe: Quiet, 1970s-1980s single-family homes and townhomes. Mature trees, parks, and good schools.
   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to most Plymouth job sites. Easy access to I-94 for work in Minneapolis.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,150 - $1,300 for a 1BR apartment in a complex.
   • Best For: Plumbers with families or those who want a quieter, suburban feel.

3. Hollydale Area (Affordable, Central):

   • Vibe: Older, well-established neighborhood with a mix of rental duplexes and affordable single-family homes. Central location.
   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to anywhere in Plymouth. Very central.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200 for a 1BR apartment or small duplex unit.
   • Best For: Plumbers on a tighter budget who want to minimize commute times and live in the heart of the city.

4. Near Hwy 55 & Vicksburg (Convenience-Focused):

   • Vibe: A mix of older motels turned apartments, grocery stores, and easy highway access. Less "neighborhood" feel, more practical.
   • Commute: 10 minutes to anywhere. Direct access to the main commercial arteries.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,100 for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Plumbers who prioritize a short, predictable commute and low housing costs above all else.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Plymouth, your career path isn't just about climbing a corporate ladder; it's about adding skills and responsibilities.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Medical Gas Certification: Adds $3-$5/hour to your rate. Crucial for work at TCO, Hennepin Healthcare, and other clinics.
  • Backflow Prevention Tester: Certification is required for commercial properties. This is a steady, high-margin side business or a premium skill for employers. Can add $5,000-$10,000/year.
  • Commercial/Industrial Systems: Experience with large boilers, chillers, and hydronic systems opens up higher-paying roles with mechanical contractors.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Field Supervisor: Oversee a team of journeymen and apprentices. Requires strong communication and organizational skills.
  2. Estimator/Project Manager: Move from the field to the office, estimating jobs and managing timelines for a contracting company.
  3. Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Start a small service company. Plymouth’s density of homes and businesses supports a local shop. The 6% job growth indicates a stable market for a new, well-run business.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% growth is solid. The biggest factor will be retirements. Many master plumbers in the area are hitting retirement age, creating opportunities for journeymen to step up. The demand for service and repair work on aging residential and commercial infrastructure (built in the 1980s-90s) will remain constant. Technology (e.g., touchless fixtures, tankless water heaters) will require continuous learning, but the core trade is secure.

The Verdict: Is Plymouth Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable, above-average salary ($64,205) in a low-volatility market.	Not a high-growth boomtown. Career progression is steady, not meteoric.
Strategic location in the Twin Cities metro for both residential and commercial work.	Cost of Living (104.5) is above the US average, though less so than Minneapolis.
Diverse employer base from healthcare to retail to municipal.	Car-dependent city. You will need a reliable truck/van and a driver's license.
Strong path to homeownership with disciplined budgeting.	Competitive apprenticeship programs (like Local 34) can be hard to get into.
Good work-life balance with shorter commutes than the core cities.	Winters are long and harsh, which can be tough on outdoor work and vehicles.

Final Recommendation:
Plymouth is an excellent choice for a plumber seeking stability, a reasonable cost of living, and a high quality of life. It’s not the place for someone chasing the highest raw salary in the nation, but it’s ideal for a tradesperson who wants to build a solid career, buy a home, and raise a family in a safe, well-maintained community. If you value consistent work, a manageable commute, and being part of a tight-knit local economy, Plymouth is a fantastic bet.

FAQs

1. I'm a licensed plumber from another state. Can I work in Plymouth?
Minnesota has reciprocity with several states, but not all. You must apply for licensure through the Minnesota DLI. If your home state’s exam is substantially similar, you may be able to get a license without retesting. Contact the DLI directly for a reciprocity application. Be prepared to provide proof of your current license and experience.

2. What’s the job market like for apprentices in Plymouth?
It’s competitive but promising. The large number of contractors and the constant need for service work means companies are always looking to train new talent. Your best bet is to apply directly to local companies (like Metro Heating & Plumbing) or apply to the Plumbers Local 34 apprenticeship program. Having a clean driving record and a willingness to learn is key.

3. How do winters affect a plumber’s work in Plymouth?
They’re a major factor. From November to March, you’ll have a surge in service calls for frozen pipes, boiler failures, and water heater issues. This means more overtime and higher earnings potential. However, outdoor work (main line replacements, new construction) slows down or stops. You need a well-insulated work truck, quality cold-weather gear, and a proactive mindset.

4. Is it better to work for a union or a non-union shop in the area?
Both are prevalent and can be excellent. Union (Local 34) jobs offer structured wage scales, pension plans, and excellent health benefits, with work often on large commercial projects. Non-union shops may offer more flexibility, commission-based pay for service techs, and a faster path to management in a smaller company. It’s a personal choice based on your career priorities.

5. What’s the single biggest challenge for a new plumber moving to Plymouth?
Building a local network. The plumbing community here is tight-knit. Getting your name known