There are currently an estimated 504,500 plumbers in the United States. The plumber job market is expected to grow by 4.5% between 2024 and 2034.

How employable are plumbers?

CareerExplorer rates plumbers with a B employability rating, meaning this career should provide good employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 22,700 plumbers.

Are plumbers in demand?

A shortage of qualified licensed plumbers is expected to create employment opportunities, especially in view of growth in the construction and building renovations industries. Bathroom remodelling, in particular, should generate demand in the field. Job seekers with welding experience will enjoy further prospects. Of course, existing plumbing systems in both the residential and commercials sectors will continue to produce repair and maintenance jobs for plumbers. Construction of new septic tanks and waste water treatment plants may also contribute to the job pool. Stricter water efficiency standards for toilets and showerheads and rules for home and business sprinkler systems will likely lead to more work for plumbers. Most available jobs are predicted to be with plumbing and pipefitting contractors. A significant number of openings will follow the imminent retirement of many tradespeople in general.

What’s the supply of plumbers?

The plumber industry is concentrated in California, Texas, Florida

Plumber job market by state

State Name Employed Plumbers
California 47,660
Texas 44,090
Florida 29,260
New York 23,210
Illinois 16,750
Ohio 16,390
North Carolina 14,510
Michigan 14,120
Virginia 13,780
Pennsylvania 13,620
Massachusetts 13,460
Washington 12,470
Arizona 11,810
Maryland 11,420
Indiana 11,280
Minnesota 10,720
Wisconsin 10,210
Colorado 10,080
Tennessee 9,270
Georgia 8,930
New Jersey 8,750
Louisiana 8,360
Missouri 8,310
Utah 7,030
Alabama 6,950
Kentucky 6,360
Oklahoma 6,050
South Carolina 5,770
Iowa 5,730
Connecticut 5,410
Nevada 5,370
Oregon 5,370
Kansas 4,590
Nebraska 4,110
Arkansas 3,370
Mississippi 3,360
Idaho 3,090
New Mexico 2,830
Maine 2,710
Hawaii 2,500
New Hampshire 1,950
Montana 1,860
West Virginia 1,830
Rhode Island 1,820
South Dakota 1,760
North Dakota 1,620
Delaware 1,590
Alaska 1,200
Wyoming 1,140
District of Columbia 1,010
Vermont 980