Plumber in Seattle, WA

The Salary Picture: Where Seattle Stands

As a plumber considering Seattle, you're looking at a market that pays well above the national average, but the cost of living is the critical counterbalance. The median salary for a plumber in Seattle is $65,820/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $31.64/hour. This is notably higher than the national median of $63,350/year, putting Seattle in the top tier of cities for plumber compensation. However, with a metro population of 755,081 and a dense, competitive job market, your actual earnings will depend heavily on experience, specialization, and the specific employer.

The job market itself is stable but not exploding. There are approximately 1,510 plumbing jobs in the Seattle metro area. Over the next decade, the field is projected to grow by 6%, which is about as fast as the national average for all occupations. This growth is driven by Seattle's constant construction cycle—new high-rises in South Lake Union, residential renovations in older neighborhoods like Ballard, and essential maintenance in the city's aging infrastructure.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on experience level within the Seattle context:

Experience Level	Typical Roles in Seattle	Estimated Salary Range (Seattle)
Entry-Level	Apprentice, Helper	$45,000 - $55,000
Mid-Level	Licensed Journeyman Plumber	$65,820 (Median) - $85,000
Senior-Level	Lead Plumber, Service Manager	$85,000 - $110,000
Expert/Specialist	Master Plumber, Project Manager, Union Steward	$110,000+

When comparing Seattle to other Washington cities, the premium is clear. While Spokane or Tacoma might offer a lower cost of living, their plumber median salaries are typically 10-15% below Seattle's. The trade-off is pure: higher pay for higher costs. Seattle is the center of the state's unionized construction trades (like Local 32), which can offer stronger benefits and wage floors, a significant factor for your long-term financial health.

Insider Tip: If you're coming from a non-union state, understand that union presence in Seattle is strong, especially on public works and large commercial projects. Non-union shops are prevalent in residential service and small commercial, often offering more flexibility but variable pay. The key is to research which path aligns with your career goals.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $65,820 is a solid starting point, but in Seattle, the real story is told after taxes and rent. Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single plumber earning the median.

• Monthly Gross: $65,820 / 12 = $5,485
• Estimated Take-Home (After Taxes & Deductions): ~$4,150 (This is an estimate for a single filer with standard deductions; actual varies).
• Average 1BR Rent: $2,269/month (This is the city average; neighborhoods vary widely).

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Earning $65,820):

• Income (After Tax): $4,150
• Rent (1BR): -$2,269
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings: $1,881

This leaves a manageable but not lavish surplus. Utilities (water, sewer, heat, internet) in an apartment can run $200-$300. A monthly transit pass (ORCA card) is $99 for unlimited travel on buses, light rail, and ferries—a fantastic value in Seattle. Groceries and dining for one person can easily hit $600-$800. This leaves roughly $600-$800 for savings, debt, or discretionary spending.

Can they afford to buy a home?
This is the biggest hurdle. The median home price in Seattle is over $800,000. With a $65,820 salary, a down payment is a massive challenge. Even with a 20% down payment ($160,000), the mortgage, taxes, and insurance would be unsustainable on a single plumber's income. Homeownership in Seattle proper is largely out of reach for mid-level plumbers without a dual income, significant savings, or a move to a less expensive suburb like Auburn or Kent.

Insider Tip: The "Seattle Donut Hole" is a real phenomenon. The city core is unaffordable, but the suburbs within a 30-45 minute commute (e.g., Renton, Shoreline, Federal Way) offer more reasonable rents and home prices. A plumber's job is often mobile, so living further out can be a strategic financial move.

Where the Jobs Are: Seattle's Major Employers

Seattle's plumbing job market is segmented into several key sectors. Knowing where to look can save you months of job searching.

1. Unionized Commercial & Industrial (Local 32): The United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 32 is a powerhouse. They handle major projects at Amazon's HQ, the Seattle Children's Hospital expansion, and Sound Transit's light rail extensions. Benefits are top-tier (pension, healthcare), and pay scales are mandated. Hiring is often through the union hall, requiring you to be a member.

2. Residential Service & Repair: Companies like Carter Plumbing, Heating & Air and Bob O's Plumbing are Seattle institutions. They serve the city's vast housing stock, from historic Capitol Hill homes to modern condos in Belltown. These roles are steady, customer-facing, and often offer overtime. The work is less predictable but can be more varied.

3. Large Commercial Contractors: Firms like McClure Engineering or BSP Engineering (which have strong plumbing divisions) are involved in the constant high-rise construction in South Lake Union and Downtown. These jobs are project-based. You might work on a new Amazon tower for 18 months, then move to a hospital project. Stability comes from the company's pipeline of work.

4. Public Works & Municipalities: The City of Seattle Public Utilities and King County Wastewater Treatment Division are major employers. They maintain the city's water mains, sewer systems, and stormwater infrastructure. These are civil service jobs with excellent benefits, union representation, and job security, but the hiring process can be slow and bureaucratic.

5. Institutional Employers: University of Washington and Seattle Public Schools have large facilities maintenance teams that include plumbers. These are often salaried positions with great work-life balance, summers off (for schools), and benefits. They are highly competitive but worth applying for.

Hiring Trends: There's a noticeable push for green and efficient systems. Plumbers with experience in hydronic heating, greywater systems, or water conservation retrofits are in high demand for Seattle's eco-conscious market. The residential side is seeing a boom in service calls related to aging pipes in pre-1980s homes.

Getting Licensed in WA

Washington State has a structured, four-step licensing process managed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). It's a clear path but requires time and investment.

1. Apprenticeship (4-5 years): You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. This combines on-the-job training (2,000 hours/year) with classroom instruction. Union apprenticeships are highly sought after, but non-union programs exist through community colleges like South Seattle College.

   • Timeline: 4-5 years.
   • Cost: Often, the employer or union covers tuition. Apprentices earn a percentage of the journeyman wage (starting at 40-50%), so you earn while you learn.

2. Journeyman Plumber: After completing your apprenticeship and passing the state exam, you become a licensed journeyman. This allows you to work independently on most plumbing jobs.

   • Exam Fee: ~$250.
   • License Fee: ~$150 (renewal every 2 years).

3. Master Plumber: Requires 2-4 years of additional work experience as a journeyman and passing a more advanced exam. Master plumbers can pull permits, design systems, and run their own businesses.

   • Exam Fee: ~$300.
   • License Fee: ~$250 (renewal every 2 years).

4. Specialty Licenses: For work on boilers, medical gas, or fire sprinklers, you need additional endorsements. Each has its own exam and fee.

Total Estimated Cost to Journeyman (excluding education): $400-$600 in exam and license fees. The bigger "cost" is the 4-5 years of apprenticeship at a reduced wage.

Insider Tip: Washington's licensing is reciprocal with some states, but not all. If you're licensed elsewhere, contact L&I's Plumbing and Piping Industry Program directly to assess what you need to do. Many out-of-state plumbers find they need to complete at least a portion of Washington's apprenticeship to meet local codes, which are updated frequently.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live in Seattle affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are four neighborhoods that offer a good balance for working plumbers:

• Beacon Hill / Georgetown: This is the classic plumber's neighborhood. Close to I-5 and I-90, it's a central hub for commuting to job sites across the city. It's one of the more affordable areas for a single-family home or a larger apartment. The culture is industrial and authentic, with a growing scene of breweries and cafes.

  • 1BR Rent Estimate: $1,800 - $2,200/month
  • Commute: 15-30 minutes to most job sites via bus or car.

• Ballard: While trendy, Ballard has a strong blue-collar history and still hosts many industrial businesses. It's a great home base for jobs in the growing Ballard-Fremont corridor and the shipyards. The commute can be tough due to the Ballard Bridge, but if your work is localized to the northwest, it's perfect.

  • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,100 - $2,500/month
  • Commute: 20-45 minutes (bridge traffic dependent).

• West Seattle (Alki/Junction): Offers a "small town" feel with stunning water views. The West Seattle Bridge (now open) provides a direct route to downtown and South Lake Union. It's great for those who want a respite from the city core. Plumbers with families often choose this area for the community vibe.

  • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,000 - $2,400/month
  • Commute: 20-35 minutes to downtown via bridge.

• Capitol Hill / Central District: For the plumber who wants to be in the heart of the action. It's a walkable, vibrant area with endless dining and nightlife. However, it's expensive, parking is a nightmare, and you'll likely be in a smaller apartment. Ideal for a young, single plumber who prioritizes lifestyle over space.

  • 1BR Rent Estimate: $2,300 - $2,800/month
  • Commute: 10-20 minutes via bus, bike, or car (if you can find parking at the job site).

Insider Tip: Use the Seattle Department of Transportation's trip planner to test commutes from your potential neighborhood to your likely job sites (e.g., South Lake Union, Ballard, Downtown). A 30-minute commute in Seattle can easily become an hour during rush hour.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Sticking with plumbing in Seattle can lead to a very comfortable living if you specialize and advance.

• Specialty Premiums: Becoming a certified expert in a high-demand area can boost your income significantly.

  • Medical Gas Piping: Essential for hospitals like Swedish Medical or Virginia Mason. Can add 10-15% to your base pay.
  • Hydronic Heating & Boilers: Seattle's older homes and the push for efficient heating make this a lucrative skill.
  • Backflow Prevention Testing: A required certification for many commercial properties. It's a side-gig that can pay $75-$150 per test.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Service Technician to Service Manager: Move from wrench-on-pipe to managing a team, scheduling, and inventory.
  2. Journeyman to Project Manager: For those in commercial construction, overseeing larger projects and budgets.
  3. Field to Office: Move into estimating, sales, or design for a mechanical contractor. This path often requires additional education (e.g., an associate's degree in construction management).
  4. Start Your Own Business: As a Master Plumber, you can open your own shop. The Seattle market is competitive but there's always demand for reliable, licensed residential service.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth is steady. The biggest changes will be technological. Plumbers who can work with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, understand smart home water systems (like Flo by Moen), and are versed in green building codes (like Seattle's Living Building Challenge) will be most in-demand. The physical labor will remain, but the technical knowledge will separate the top earners.

The Verdict: Is Seattle Right for You?

Pros	Cons
High Pay: Median salary of $65,820 is well above national average.	High Cost of Living: Rent at $2,269/month for a 1BR eats up a large chunk of income.
Strong Job Market: 1,510 jobs and steady growth (6%). Diverse opportunities.	Homeownership is a Stretch: On a single plumber's salary, buying a home in Seattle is very difficult.
Career Advancement: Opportunities for specialization, union benefits, and management paths.	Traffic & Commutes: Can be brutal. A central location (like Beacon Hill) is almost a necessity.
Vibrant City Life: Incredible food, culture, and outdoor access (mountains, water).	Weather: The "drizzle" is real. Winters are long, gray, and damp, which can affect mood.
Union Strength (for some): Strong representation and benefits through Local 32.	High Competition: The city attracts skilled tradespeople from all over, increasing competition for top jobs.

Final Recommendation:
Seattle is an excellent choice for a mid-career, licensed journeyman plumber who is focused on career growth and can tolerate a high cost of living. If you are willing to specialize (medical gas, hydronics) or join the union for commercial work, the financial upside is substantial. The lifestyle is unmatched if you value urban amenities and outdoor recreation.

It is not recommended for an entry-level apprentice without a clear path to a stable apprenticeship, or for anyone prioritizing quick homeownership on a single income. For those in this position, consider starting your career in Seattle but planning to buy a home in a more affordable outer suburb (like Kent or Maple Valley) in the long term.

FAQs

1. Can I get a plumbing job in Seattle without a license?
You can work as an apprentice under the supervision of a licensed plumber. You cannot work independently or pull permits without a Washington state journeyman or master license. If you're licensed in another state, you must apply for reciprocity or meet Washington's requirements through L&I.

2. How long does it take to become a journeyman plumber in Seattle?
Typically, it takes 4-5 years of completing a state-approved apprenticeship (combining 8,000 hours of work and classroom hours) before you can sit for the journeyman exam.

3. Is rent really over $2,200 for a one-bedroom?
Yes, the $2,269/month figure is the current city-wide average. It's lower in neighborhoods like Beacon Hill or Rainier Valley and significantly higher in areas like Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, or South Lake Union. Sharing a two-bedroom apartment is a common way to reduce costs.

4. Are union or non-union shops better in Seattle?
It depends on your goals. Union (Local 32) offers standardized high wages, strong benefits (pension, healthcare), and steady work on large public and commercial projects. Non-union can offer more flexibility, a faster path to ownership, and variety in residential service work, but benefits and pay may be less consistent.

5. What's the deal with Seattle's weather affecting plumbing work?
The rainy climate means less freeze-thaw cycle damage to exterior pipes than in colder states, but it creates more demand for rainwater management, sump pumps, and drainage work. The dampness can also lead to mold issues in basements and crawlspaces, which plumbers often address. Most work is indoors, so it's not a major deterrent.