Plumber in Rogers, AR

The Salary Picture: Where Rogers Stands

First, let's talk numbers. As a plumber in Rogers, you're entering a market that’s stable but not explosive. The median salary for a plumber in this metro is $61,639/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.63/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $63,350/year, but the cost of living here makes that salary go further. The job market is tight—there are only 148 plumbing jobs in the metro area, but with a 10% job growth over the last decade, demand is steady. Rogers isn’t a boomtown for trades, but it’s a reliable place to build a career without the cutthroat competition you’d find in larger cities.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in the Rogers area. These are estimates based on local job postings and industry benchmarks, adjusted for the region’s lower cost of living.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$42,000 - $48,000	$20.19 - $23.07
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$55,000 - $68,000	$26.44 - $32.69
Senior-Level	8-15 years	$69,000 - $82,000	$33.17 - $39.42
Expert/Supervisor	15+ years	$85,000+	$40.86+

Insider Tip: The jump from mid-level to senior is where you'll see the most significant salary increase. Specializing in commercial work or hydronic heating systems can push you into the expert bracket faster. Many local shops pay a premium for plumbers who can also handle HVAC basics, given the region's hot summers and variable winters.

Comparison to Other Arkansas Cities

Rogers’ salary is competitive within the state, especially when you factor in affordability. Here’s how it stacks up against other major Arkansas metros:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Rogers	$61,639	91.0
Fayetteville (Benton County)	$62,100	92.5
Little Rock	$60,800	86.0
Fort Smith	$58,500	82.0
Jonesboro	$57,900	81.5

While Fayetteville offers a marginally higher salary, the cost of living is also slightly higher. For a plumber seeking a balance between income and affordability, Rogers presents a compelling case. The 148 jobs in the metro mean you won’t be competing with hundreds of applicants for every opening, but you’ll need to be proactive in your job search.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $61,639 sounds solid, but what’s the real purchasing power? Let’s break down a monthly budget for a plumber earning this median wage, assuming a single filer with standard deductions and an effective tax rate of about 22% (including federal, state, and FICA).

• Gross Monthly Income: $5,136
• Estimated Taxes (22%): -$1,130
• Net Monthly Income: $4,006

Now, let’s layer on core living expenses, using Rogers’ average 1BR rent of $924/month.

Monthly Budget for a Single Plumber ($61,639/Year):

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	% of Net Income	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$924	23%	This is the city average; outliers exist.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250	6%	Varies seasonally; summer AC costs spike.
Groceries	$350	9%	Reasonable for a single person.
Transportation (Gas/Car Payment)	$450	11%	Assumes a used car payment & insurance.
Personal/Discretionary	$400	10%	Dining, entertainment, hobbies.
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$300	7%	A significant variable.
Savings/Retirement (10% of gross)	$514	13%	Critical for a trades career.
Car/Home Maintenance Buffer	$150	4%	Essential for a plumber's tools and vehicle.
Remaining	$668	17%	Available for debt, vacations, or extra savings.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

With $668 left over after essentials and savings, a plumber earning the median income is in a solid position to consider homeownership. The median home price in Rogers is approximately $275,000. With a 20% down payment ($55,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% would result in a monthly payment of around $1,400 (including taxes and insurance). This is higher than the rent budget but manageable if the plumber increases their income through overtime or promotion. The $4,006 net monthly income can support a $1,400 mortgage payment (35% of net), which is at the higher end but feasible with discipline. Many local plumbers I know pair up with partners or wait until they hit the senior-level salary range to buy, using their initial years to build a substantial down payment.

Where the Jobs Are: Rogers's Major Employers

Rogers’ economy is anchored by retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. For a plumber, this translates into jobs with large commercial contractors, hospitals, and property management firms. Here are the key local employers to target:

1. The Jones Company: A large commercial and industrial plumbing contractor based in Northwest Arkansas. They handle major projects for new construction, including the expanding commercial corridors along I-49. They frequently hire for journeyman and service plumbers. Hiring Trend: Steady growth, with a focus on plumbers skilled in commercial code and large-scale piping systems.
2. Mercy Hospital Rogers: Part of the massive Mercy health system, this hospital has constant needs for in-house maintenance plumbers and contracts with local firms for specialized medical gas and backflow prevention work. Insider Tip: Hospital jobs offer excellent benefits and stability but require knowledge of healthcare-specific plumbing codes (ASME A13.1).
3. Walmart Home Office (Bentonville/Rogers): While headquartered in Bentonville, the campus's maintenance needs spill over into Rogers. The facility management teams hire plumbers for their vast office complexes. Hiring Trend: Highly competitive, but they value plumbers who can handle complex, high-end fixtures and smart building systems.
4. Rogers School District: Public school districts have dedicated maintenance staff. The Rogers School District employs plumbers for repairs and remodels across its campuses. Insider Tip: These jobs offer great schedules (summers off, holidays) but pay may be slightly below the median. It’s a trade-off for quality of life.
5. Crosstown Construction: A prominent local builder specializing in custom homes and commercial projects in Rogers and nearby Bella Vista. They are a major employer for residential plumbers. Hiring Trend: Directly tied to the local housing market, which remains strong. They often list jobs on local trade association boards.
6. Property Management Companies (e.g., The Management Group, Century 21): Rogers has a growing rental market. Large property management firms are constantly seeking reliable service plumbers for emergency calls and turnover work. This is often contract or 1099 work but provides high flexibility and often above-average hourly rates for urgent work.
7. Local Supply Houses (e.g., Ferguson, West End Supply): While not direct employers, these supply houses are hubs for networking. Plumbbers who build relationships here often get tipped off to job openings before they’re advertised.

Getting Licensed in Arkansas

Arkansas has a clear licensing path through the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing. It’s a structured process that protects the trade’s value.

1. Apprenticeship (4 Years):
You must complete a state-accredited apprenticeship program. This typically involves 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed plumber and 576 hours of classroom instruction per year. You’ll apply for an Apprentice Plumber Permit through the state. Cost: Apprentices usually pay for their own books and tools, approximately $1,000 - $2,000 over the four years, but the income from paid apprenticeship work offsets this.

2. Journeyman License:
After completing your apprenticeship and passing the journeyman exam (administered by the Arkansas State Board of Plumbing Examiners), you can apply for your Journeyman Plumber License. The exam covers the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and Arkansas-specific amendments. Cost: Exam fee is around $150, and the license application is $100.

3. Master Plumber License:
To become a Master Plumber (required to own a business or pull permits), you need at least two years as a licensed journeyman and must pass the Master Plumber exam. This is a more complex exam focused on business, law, and advanced code. Cost: Exam fee is $200, and the license is $150.

Timeline: From starting as an apprentice to holding a Master License takes a minimum of 6 years (4 apprenticeship + 2 journeyman). The process is straightforward but requires commitment. All forms and exam schedules are available on the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing website.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Choosing where to live in Rogers depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. East Rogers (Near I-49): This area is a commercial hub with many new subdivisions and strip malls. It’s ideal for plumbers working for commercial contractors or on new construction sites. Commute: Excellent. You’re 5-10 minutes from most major employers. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR. Lifestyle: Bustling, convenient, but less character.
2. Historic Downtown Rogers: Walkable, charming, and close to a variety of restaurants and shops. Best for plumbers with flexible schedules or those who don’t mind a slightly longer commute to industrial areas. Commute: 10-15 minutes to most job sites. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1BR (often in older, converted buildings). Lifestyle: Active, social, with a strong community feel.
3. South Rogers / Pinnacle Hills: This is the upscale area, home to the Pinnacle Hills Promenade and newer apartment complexes. It’s pricier but very safe and modern. Good for senior plumbers with higher incomes. Commute: 10-15 minutes to most places, though traffic can be heavier on J.B. Hunt Parkway. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,400/month for a 1BR. Lifestyle: Upscale, family-oriented, with premium amenities.
4. West Rogers (Near the Airport): More affordable, with a mix of older homes and apartments. Close to the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) and industrial parks. Commute: 5-12 minutes to many commercial job sites. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR. Lifecycle: Practical, no-frills, and convenient for tradespeople.
5. Bella Vista (Just South of Rogers): Technically a separate city but part of the metro. A master-planned community with a focus on retirees and golf courses. Commute: 15-20 minutes to Rogers job sites. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,050/month for a 1BR. Lifestyle: Quiet, scenic, and community-focused, but farther from the urban core.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A plumber’s career in Rogers isn’t just about fixing leaks; it’s about specialization and business acumen.

• Specialty Premiums: Plumbers who get certified in backflow prevention (required for irrigation and commercial systems) can command an additional $2-$5/hour. Similarly, expertise in hydronic heating (baseboard and radiant systems) is valuable in this climate and can lead to higher-paying service calls.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Service & Repair Tech: Focus on residential and light commercial emergency calls. High earning potential with overtime and on-call pay.
  • Commercial/Industrial Specialist: Work on large-scale projects. Requires deep code knowledge and often leads to supervisory roles.
  • Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. With a Master License, you can start your own firm. This carries higher risk but unlimited income potential. The local market is not oversaturated with small, reputable plumbing businesses.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth over the decade is steady, not explosive. It reflects the region’s population growth and need for infrastructure maintenance. The biggest opportunity for advancement will be in green technology—water-efficient systems, tankless water heaters, and smart home integration. Plumbers who adapt to these trends will see the highest demand and best rates.

The Verdict: Is Rogers Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $61,639 salary stretches further here than in most metros.	Limited Job Volume: Only 148 jobs in the metro means you can't be picky early in your career.
Stable, Growing Market: 6% job growth provides a reliable foundation for a long-term career.	Lower Ceiling (Initially): Salaries are below the national average until you hit senior/expert levels.
High Quality of Life: Safe, clean, with great access to outdoor recreation.	Requires a Car: Public transit is limited; you must have reliable transportation for service calls.
Strong Trade Culture: Respected profession with good union presence (UA Local 440) and local associations.	Weather Challenges: Summers are hot and humid, and winters can have ice storms, which can affect work schedules.

Final Recommendation: Rogers is an excellent choice for a plumber who values stability, affordability, and a high quality of life over the highest possible salary. It’s ideal for a journeyman looking to become a senior plumber or a service tech aiming to eventually start their own business. If you’re an entry-level apprentice, the structured apprenticeship and lower living costs make it a great place to start. If your top priority is hitting a six-figure salary in the next five years, you might look to a larger market like Dallas or Denver, but you’ll sacrifice Rogers’ affordability and community feel.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best way to find a plumbing job in Rogers?
A: Network through the Northwest Arkansas Builders Association and local supply houses. Many jobs are filled through word-of-mouth before they’re posted online. Check the Arkansas Department of Labor job board and company websites directly (like Jones Company or Mercy).

Q: Do I need to join a union?
A: It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly beneficial. UA Local 440 covers Northwest Arkansas. Union jobs often pay above the median, offer better benefits, and provide structured pension plans. They also handle licensing and continuing education.

Q: How do winter weather and storms affect plumbing work?
A: Ice storms are your biggest challenge. They cause a surge in emergency calls for frozen and burst pipes, which means overtime and high-demand periods. It’s also a time when commercial work may slow down. Being prepared for both extremes is key.

Q: What’s the competition like for the 148 jobs?
A: The competition is moderate. The low number of openings means you need strong credentials (a clean license, good references). However, the 6% growth indicates that qualified plumbers are not sitting idle for long. Being willing to work on both residential and commercial jobs widens your opportunities.

Q: Is the cost of living really as good as it seems?
A: Yes, with a caveat. The 91.0 index is accurate, but healthcare and car insurance can be higher than the national average. The key is that housing and utilities are significantly cheaper, which makes the overall package very manageable on a $61,639 salary.