Plumbers in Twin Falls, ID: A Complete Career Guide

If you’re a plumber considering a move to the Magic Valley, you’re looking at a market that’s stable, affordable, and poised for steady growth. Twin Falls isn’t a booming metropolis, but it’s a regional hub with a solid agricultural and industrial base that keeps plumbing demand consistent. As a local, I can tell you this city runs on a mix of dairy, food processing, and outdoor recreation—and all of those sectors need reliable plumbing. Let’s break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the real day-to-day life for a plumber here.

The Salary Picture: Where Twin Falls Stands

The plumbing trade in Twin Falls offers a reliable, middle-class income that goes a long way in this part of Idaho. The median salary for plumbers here is $61,183 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $29.41. This sits slightly below the national average of $63,350, but the lower cost of living more than makes up for the difference.

The job market for plumbers in the Twin Falls metro area is small but stable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 106 plumbing jobs in the immediate metro area. The long-term outlook is positive, with a 10-year job growth rate of 6%—this isn’t explosive growth, but it’s a steady, reliable increase that reflects the ongoing need for maintenance, new construction, and infrastructure upgrades.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While the median is a good benchmark, your earnings will vary significantly based on experience. Here’s how it typically breaks down in the local market:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$42,000 - $52,000	Apprentice work, assisting journeymen, basic repairs, and installations. Often starts with a local contractor or larger firm.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$58,000 - $68,000	Journeyman status, handling independent service calls, complex installations, and code compliance. This is the "median" range.
Senior (8-15 years)	$70,000 - $85,000+	Master plumber potential, project management, specialized systems (medical gas, fire suppression), and supervising crews.
Expert/Owner (15+ years)	$85,000 - $120,000+	Business ownership, large commercial contracts, consulting, and high-end specialty work. Income is heavily tied to business acumen.

Comparison to Other Idaho Cities

Twin Falls offers a competitive wage when you factor in affordability. For context, here’s how it stacks up against other major Idaho cities for plumbers:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Rent for 1BR (Avg)	Take-Home Value
Twin Falls	$61,183	88.6	$806/month	Very High
Boise	$65,200	104.2	$1,450/month	Moderate
Idaho Falls	$62,500	92.4	$950/month	High
Nampa	$60,800	95.1	$1,020/month	Moderate-High

Insider Tip: While Boise and Nampa might offer slightly higher nominal wages, the cost of living—especially housing—can eat up those gains. In Twin Falls, your $61,183 salary stretches significantly further. The $806 average rent for a 1-bedroom is a key advantage, allowing for more disposable income or savings.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s make the numbers concrete. For a plumber earning the median salary of $61,183, here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for Twin Falls. This assumes a single filer with no dependents, using standard deductions and Idaho state tax rates.

• Gross Monthly Income: $5,099
• Estimated Taxes (Federal & State): ~$1,100/month (This is an estimate; actual tax liability varies.)
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$3,999/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Single Plumber:

• Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment): $806
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): $200
• Groceries & Household: $400
• Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Maintenance): $300
• Health Insurance (Employer Plan): $150
• Retirement Savings (10% of Gross): $510
• Discretionary/Entertainment: $633
• Total Expenses: ~$3,000
• Remaining Monthly Savings: ~$999

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Absolutely. The median home price in the Twin Falls area is roughly $325,000. With a $999 monthly savings rate, a plumber could save a 20% down payment of $65,000 in about 5.5 years—and that’s without being extremely frugal. Using an FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$11,375), a home purchase is feasible much sooner. The local market, while rising, is still accessible for skilled tradespeople.

Insider Tip: Many local contractors offer sign-on bonuses or relocation assistance for licensed journeymen. It’s worth asking about during the interview process, as it can jumpstart your savings.

Where the Jobs Are: Twin Falls's Major Employers

The plumbing job market here is driven by a mix of large-scale agriculture, food processing, and a steady stream of residential and commercial construction. Here are the key local employers and what they’re looking for:

1. Chobani: The massive yogurt plant in Twin Falls is one of the area's largest employers. They have a dedicated facilities and maintenance team that includes plumbers for process piping, steam systems, and general plant maintenance. Hiring is often tied to production expansions. (Source: Company Careers Page)
2. GloryBee Foods / Other Food Processors: Beyond Chobani, there are numerous other food processing plants (e.g., Clif Bar, Frulact) that require industrial plumbers for sanitary process piping, water treatment, and facility maintenance.
3. St. Luke’s Magic Valley Regional Medical Center: As the largest hospital in the region, St. Luke's has a full-time facilities crew. This role involves medical gas systems, boiler work, and strict compliance with healthcare codes—a niche that pays a premium.
4. Twin Falls School District & City of Twin Falls: Government entities are stable employers. The school district maintains dozens of facilities, and the city’s public works department handles municipal water and sewer lines. These jobs offer excellent benefits and pensions.
5. Large Local Construction Firms: Companies like Boyle Construction and R&R Construction are frequently involved in new commercial and residential projects. They hire subcontract plumbers and sometimes have in-house crews for large jobs.
6. Canyon Springs Trucking & Logistics: A major distribution hub for the area. Their facilities require constant plumbing maintenance for restrooms, breakrooms, and vehicle wash stations.
7. Specialty Plumbing & Mechanical Contractors: Firms like Allied Mechanical or Magic Valley Plumbing & Heating are the primary employers for residential and light commercial service work. These are often the best places to start your career and learn the local market.

Hiring Trends: Demand is stable. The 6% growth rate is driven by new housing developments on the city’s west side (near the college) and ongoing maintenance of aging infrastructure in the older east-side neighborhoods. There’s a noticeable gap in journeymen willing to do residential service calls, which can be a lucrative niche.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho has a clear, tiered licensing system for plumbers, managed by the Idaho Division of Building Safety.

1. Apprentice Plumber: No license required, but must be registered with the state. You work under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master plumber. This is your starting point.
2. Journeyman Plumber: Requires 4 years (8,000 hours) of documented apprenticeship and passing a state exam. The exam covers plumbing code, math, and safety. The application fee is around $120, and the exam fee is $150. Once licensed, you can work independently on most residential and commercial projects.
3. Master Plumber: Requires a minimum of 2 years as a licensed journeyman and passing a more advanced exam. This license allows you to pull permits, design plumbing systems, and supervise other plumbers. Fees are similar to the journeyman level.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you’re new to the trade: Enroll in an apprenticeship program (often through a union like Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 296 or a non-union contractor). Expect 4-5 years to become a journeyman.
• If you’re already licensed in another state: Idaho does not have reciprocity with most states. You will likely need to provide proof of your experience and pass the Idaho journeyman exam. The process can take 2-4 months.
• Insider Tip: The local community college, CSI (College of Southern Idaho), sometimes offers pre-apprenticeship or continuing education courses for plumbers. It’s a good resource for exam prep.

Best Neighborhoods for Plumbers

Where you live affects your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of key areas for a working plumber:

1. Central Twin Falls (East Side): This is the established core, with older homes (1950s-70s) that need frequent plumbing updates and repairs. It’s close to downtown, St. Luke’s hospital, and many city jobs. Commute to most employers is under 10 minutes.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $900 for a 1BR.
2. West End / Canyon Rim: A rapidly growing area with new construction, including apartments and single-family homes. Closer to CSI and the new retail developments. Commute to Chobani or the west-side industrial parks is quick.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000 for a 1BR.
3. Filer / Buhl (West of Twin): Rural, more affordable, and a short 15-20 minute commute. Popular with families who want more space. Many plumbers who work on farms or in the agricultural sector live here.
   • Rent Estimate: $650 - $800 for a 1BR or small house.
4. Hansen / Kimberly (North of Twin): Similar to Filer, these are smaller towns with a strong community feel. Commute is about 15 minutes. Good for those who want a quieter life but still easy access to the city.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850 for a 1BR.
5. Downtown / Historic District: For those who want walkability and a vibrant social scene. Older, character-filled apartments. Commute is minimal if you work in the city center. Parking can be a minor challenge.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950 for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Twin Falls, career growth as a plumber is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about specialization and entrepreneurship.

• Specialty Premiums: Adding certifications can significantly boost your income.
  • Medical Gas Piping: Critical for hospitals and clinics. Can add $5-$10/hour to your rate.
  • Backflow Prevention Certification: Required for many commercial and agricultural clients. A one-day course with annual renewal.
  • Green Plumbing/Water Efficiency: Growing demand in a water-conscious region. Positions you for new construction and retrofit projects.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Service Technician: Master the troubleshooting side. High earning potential with commission-based pay.
  2. Project Foreman: Move into supervising crews for larger construction jobs.
  3. Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Start a small service company. The low barrier to entry (compared to big cities) and strong network of local trades make this viable.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% growth is solid. The aging housing stock ensures steady repair work. The key is to stay ahead of the curve—learning about new materials (like PEX), digital diagnostic tools, and water-saving technologies. The trades are facing a nationwide shortage of younger workers, so experienced plumbers will be in high demand for the foreseeable future.

The Verdict: Is Twin Falls Right for You?

Twin Falls offers a compelling package for plumbers: a fair wage, a very low cost of living, and a stable job market. It’s a place to build a life, not just a career. However, it’s not for everyone.

Pros	Cons
Extremely affordable cost of living. Your $61,183 salary goes very far.	Smaller job market (106 jobs). Less variety in employers than larger cities.
Stable, growing job market with a 6% growth rate.	Wages are slightly below the national average (though offset by COL).
Short, easy commutes (typically under 15 minutes).	Limited nightlife and cultural amenities compared to Boise.
Outdoor recreation paradise: skiing, hiking, fishing, and the Snake River Canyon are in your backyard.	Summers can be very hot; winters are cold and can be snowy.
Strong sense of community and a tight-knit trade network.	Career specialization options are more limited than in a major metro.

Final Recommendation:
Twin Falls is an excellent choice for plumbers who value quality of life, affordability, and stability. It’s ideal for those looking to buy a home, raise a family, or start their own business without the financial pressure of a major city. If you’re a journeyman or master plumber seeking a change of pace, it’s a market worth serious consideration. If your primary goal is to maximize earnings at all costs or you crave big-city diversity, you might look toward Boise or out-of-state.

FAQs

1. What is the job market like for new plumbers in Twin Falls?
It’s competitive but accessible. There are apprentice positions available, especially with large contractors and food processors. The key is to get your foot in the door with a local firm and start logging your 8,000 hours. Networking with other trades at the CSI campus or local supply houses (like Ferguson or Winnelson) is crucial.

2. Is the cost of living really as low as it seems?
Yes, but with nuance. The Cost of Living Index of 88.6 is accurate. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare are moderate. The standout is housing. While rents have risen, the average $806 for a 1BR is still within reach. A plumber earning the median salary of $61,183 has significant disposable income after essentials.

3. Do I need a union to get a job?
No. Idaho is a right-to-work state. Many plumbers are non-union and do very well. The Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 296 has a presence and offers great benefits, but there are plenty of non-union contractors who are also excellent employers. Your ticket to a good job is your licensure and work ethic, not union membership.

4. How is the work-life balance?
Generally good. Most residential service work is Monday-Friday, 8-5. Construction jobs can have longer hours, especially during peak building season. The short commutes are a huge plus for work-life balance—most plumbers are home for dinner by 6 pm, even in summer.

5. What’s the one thing a plumber should know before moving here?
Understand the agricultural rhythm. The area is dominated by dairy and food processing. This means a lot of your commercial work will be tied to those industries, which have their own busy seasons and maintenance schedules. Also, be prepared for hard water—it’s a major issue here, so water softener installation and maintenance is a constant service line.

Data Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Idaho Division of Building Safety, U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow Rent Data, Numbeo Cost of Living.