While employment opportunities are only expected to grow at about the average rate when compared to other occupations, those that are formally trained as plumbers will enjoy very good opportunities for obtaining a job.  This is because there will not be enough people trained in the field to fill positions that open up from those leaving the profession.  Yet, the need for qualified plumbers still remains stable.

 In May 2006, the median hourly wage for plumbers was $20.56.  Those working in the area of natural gas distribution earned the most, with a median hourly wage of $24.91, while those working for the local government earned the least with a median hourly wage of $17.86.