Plumber Salary in Portland
2025 BLS OEWS Data · Plumbing · COL Index: 130
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Level | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Apprentice / Entry) | $44,686 | $34,374 |
| 25th Percentile (Early Career) | $55,667 | $42,821 |
| 50th Percentile (Journeyman / Median) | $73,251 | $56,347 |
| 75th Percentile (Experienced) | $89,224 | $68,634 |
| 90th Percentile (Master / Foreman) | $109,681 | $84,370 |
What Plumbers Make in Portland
A plumber in Portland, OR earns a median salary of $73,251 per year. The $64,995 spread between entry-level and top earners reflects experience, certifications, union membership, and specialization.
Portland's cost-of-living index of 130 means that $73,251 here has the same purchasing power as $56,347 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, Portland offers strong demand and typically more overtime opportunities.
Plumbers in Portland typically complete a 4-year apprenticeship, starting near the 10th percentile ($44,686) and reaching journeyman-level median pay of $73,251 with full certification. With a Trade Pay Score of 71 (B), this trade-city combination rates as strong for earning potential relative to local living costs.