Average Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary in North Carolina
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $54,120. This figure is notably below the national average of $69,920, suggesting that regional economic factors and the specific demand within the state influence compensation levels for these essential trades.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $54,120 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $72,650.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 14,300 individuals in this trade, North Carolina demonstrates a substantial presence of Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters. The location quotient of 0.99 indicates that the concentration of these professionals in North Carolina is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for their specialized skills across the state.
Salary Overview
The average Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina earns-22.6%below the national average.
$26
$1,041
$4,510
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This upward trajectory is typically driven by increasing construction activity, infrastructure development, and the persistent need for skilled tradespeople to maintain and install vital systems.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary Distribution in North Carolina
Salary progression for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized certifications and extensive project experience can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career advancement and increased earning potential available through skill development and tenure.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $37,690 | $18.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $40,590 | $19.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $50,990 | $24.5 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $67,650 | $32.5 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $72,650 | $34.9 |
Detailed Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$54,120
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$57,028
Adjusted for COL (94.9)
The average annual salary of $54,120 in North Carolina presents a favorable financial standing when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 94.9. Since this index is below the national average of 100, the nominal salary offers a relatively strong purchasing power, meaning that the cost of essential goods and services is generally lower than the national benchmark.
Job Market Context
14,300
Total Jobs
2.918
Per 1K Jobs
0.99
Location Quotient
North Carolina has 0.99x the national average concentration of Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.99 for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina suggests that the job market for this profession is closely aligned with the national average in terms of concentration. This indicates a balanced market where demand and supply are relatively stable, without significant oversupply or undersupply of skilled workers, making it a competitive yet accessible field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary | $53,320↓ 1% | 32 mi |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary | $49,300↓ 9% | 36 mi |
| Burlington, NC Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary | $53,370↓ 1% | 36 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary | $52,160↓ 4% | 41 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary | $58,510↑ 8% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near North Carolina
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters make in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for a Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina is $54,120. This typically ranges from $37,690 for entry-level positions to $72,650 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 22.6% lower than the national median of $69,920.
Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
No, not compared to the national average.While the average salary of $54,120 is competitive within the state, it falls significantly short of the national average of $69,920. However, the lower cost of living does offer some compensation for this difference.
Is North Carolina a good place to live for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near North Carolina?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($53,320) and Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers compare nationally?
North Carolina has 2.918 jobs per 1,000 workers for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters, which is a solid indicator of the profession's presence within the state's labor market.
What is the total number of Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina?
There are approximately 14,300 Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters employed in North Carolina, representing a significant segment of the skilled trades workforce.
How does North Carolina's cost of living compare to the national average?
North Carolina's Cost of Living Index is 94.9, which is slightly below the national average of 100, indicating that everyday expenses are generally more affordable in the state.
What does a Location Quotient of 0.99 mean for this trade in North Carolina?
A Location Quotient of 0.99 signifies that the concentration of Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in North Carolina is very close to the national average, suggesting a balanced job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 14,300 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 2.918 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in North Carolina