Plumbing Industry Statistics | Insights for Plumbers

The plumbing industry is changing fast, with new demands, tech upgrades, and a bigger focus on saving water.

Staying in the loop on the latest numbers isn’t just helpful—it’s essential if you want to stay competitive and grow.

Understanding the trends, profit margins, and workforce shifts can give you a real edge.

Whether you’re a plumber on the ground or running a business, these stats show where the biggest opportunities are to expand, cut costs, and conserve.

From the jobs out there to the rise in smart plumbing, each plumbing industry statistic in this guide offers a glimpse of what’s happening in the industry now.

Take a look and see what these numbers say about where the plumbing industry is headed next.

A Plumbing Company’s Profit Typically Accounts for About 35% of Its Sales

On average, plumbing companies maintain a profit margin of approximately 35% of their total sales. This margin allows businesses to cover operational costs and sustain growth, despite industry challenges.

The Vast Majority of Plumbers Are Men

5.4% of residential plumbers are women — 94.6% are men. The plumbing industry remains predominantly male, with women comprising only 5.4% of residential plumbers. Despite low representation, there is a growing push to increase diversity within the trade.

There are 130,348 Plumbing Companies Operating in the United States

Across the United States, there are approximately 130,348 companies dedicated to plumbing services. This high number reflects both the demand for plumbing and the competitive nature of the industry.

The U.S. Plumbing Industry is Worth $124.2 Billion

The plumbing industry is a significant part of the U.S. economy, valued at $124.2 billion. This market size illustrates the essential role plumbing services play in residential and commercial sectors.

From 2017 to 2022, the Consumer Plumbing Market Grew by 3.2% Annually

Over a five-year period, the consumer plumbing market experienced an annual growth rate of 3.2%. This steady increase highlights the growing demand for plumbing services in households and businesses.

The Plumbing Job Market is Projected to Expand by 2% from 2021 to 2031

The plumbing profession is projected to see a 2% increase in job opportunities by 2031. This growth rate aligns with national employment trends and underscores the industry’s steady demand for skilled workers.

The Average Plumber in the United States Earned $63,215 Annually in 2021

In 2021, plumbers in the U.S. earned an average salary of $63,215. This competitive wage reflects the specialized skills and training required for plumbing roles.

Approximately 53% of Plumbers in America Have a High School Diploma

Over half of plumbers in the U.S. enter the trade with a high school diploma, showcasing the industry’s accessibility. Many plumbers pursue apprenticeships or technical training programs to gain hands-on experience.

The Private Sector Employs 84% of Plumbers

A large majority, 84%, of plumbers are employed in the private sector, serving residential and commercial clients. This statistic highlights the significance of private businesses in meeting plumbing demands nationwide.

The Typical American Consumes About 90 Gallons of Water Daily

Daily water usage for the average American is around 90 gallons, covering everything from bathing to cooking. This significant amount underscores the importance of efficient plumbing systems in conserving water.

Water Loss from a Leaking Toilet Might Average 200 Gallons Daily

A single leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water each day. Such leaks can go unnoticed, leading to substantial water loss and higher utility bills over time.

Switching Off the Water While Brushing Your Teeth Can Save Up to 200 Gallons Yearly

Turning off the tap while brushing teeth could save up to 200 gallons of water each year. Simple water-saving habits like this can make a meaningful impact on conservation efforts.

Leak Detection by a Professional Plumber Can Save 10,000 Gallons of Water Yearly on Average

Regular leak inspections by a plumber can prevent the loss of 10,000 gallons of water annually. Early leak detection helps households reduce waste and keep water bills lower.

Installing High-Efficiency Toilets Has Saved 757 Billion Gallons of Water in the U.S.

High-efficiency toilets have collectively saved the U.S. about 757 billion gallons of water. These fixtures are a powerful tool in reducing water consumption in residential and commercial spaces.

Water Heating Accounts for 20% of Your Home’s Energy Use

Water heating is responsible for roughly 20% of a household’s energy consumption. This significant portion shows the importance of energy-efficient water heating solutions in lowering utility costs.

Tankless Water Heaters Can Be 24–34% More Energy Efficient Than Traditional Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand, can improve energy efficiency by 24–34%. These systems contribute to both water conservation and reduced energy expenses.

Tankless Water Heaters Can Last More Than 20 Years, Compared to Storage Water Heaters That Will Need to Be Replaced After 10 to 15 Years

A tankless water heater offers a lifespan of over 20 years, significantly longer than the 10-15 years of a traditional storage water heater. This extended life can lead to cost savings and a smaller environmental impact.

Plumbing Fixtures in North America Are Valued at $22.40 Billion

The plumbing fixtures market in North America is valued at $22.40 billion, covering everything from faucets to showerheads. This sector plays a critical role in both function and style within plumbing services.

Smart Bathroom Plumbing Market Will Be Valued at $9.5 Billion in 2024

The demand for smart bathroom plumbing solutions is projected to reach $9.5 billion by 2024. This growth reflects the increasing consumer interest in advanced, efficient home technology.

The Market for Smart Plumbing Fixtures is Expected to Reach $34.60 Billion by 2034

Smart plumbing fixtures are anticipated to expand significantly, with market value estimated at $34.60 billion by 2034. This technology-driven growth indicates a shift toward more efficient, automated plumbing systems.

Residential Plumbing Accounts for 80% of the Plumbing Industry

Residential projects make up a substantial 80% of the plumbing industry. The demand for plumbing in homes continues to drive the majority of industry revenues.

Are You Looking to Increase Leads to Your Plumbing Business?

If these plumbing industry statistics gave you some useful insights, it’s worth diving into our guide on local SEO for plumbers.

So what is local SEO? Local SEO for plumbers is about optimizing your business online so local customers can easily find your services when they search for plumbing help in your area.

Knowing the numbers is a great start, but being found by more customers in your area is where real growth happens. With local SEO, you can take all that industry knowledge and make sure it reaches the right people searching for plumbing services nearby. Our guide will walk you through the essentials of optimizing your business online, from ranking in local searches to boosting your reputation.

And if you’d rather focus on the work you do best, we’re here to help with hands-on local SEO services tailored specifically for plumbing companies. By letting us handle your local SEO, you can attract more leads and build a stronger local presence without the extra effort.

When you’re ready to grow your business, contact us. We’re here to make sure your skills and expertise get noticed exactly where they’re needed.

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