Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary in Detroit, MI

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI

Median annual salary $81,480 +29.4% vs national
Median hourly $39.17
10th percentile $46,350
90th percentile $103,930
Employed locally 5,590
National median $62,970

Compare Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how Detroit, MI stacks up on salary and cost of living.

Full tool →
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
in
Detroit, MI
vs

    In Detroit, Michigan, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earn a median annual salary of $81,480, which is notably higher than the national median for the same occupation at $62,970. This positions them as well-compensated professionals within the local economy. When compared to the area's median household income, which stands at $75,123, these workers' earnings exceed typical household incomes by approximately 8.5%. Such a comparison underscores the relatively strong financial position of individuals in this field, reflecting both their specialized skills and the demand for such services in the region. The local unemployment rate is currently at 4.50%, indicating a moderately healthy job market that supports steady employment opportunities for those in these trades.

    Entry-level plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Detroit typically earn around $46,350 annually (10th percentile), while more experienced professionals can earn upwards of $103,930 (90th percentile). The significant difference between the earnings at various experience levels is driven by factors such as accumulated skills, certifications, years of service, specialization in complex tasks, and management responsibilities. Those who fall within the 25th percentile earn about $58,720 annually, whereas workers in the 75th percentile make around $97,670. This broad range highlights how career advancement, expertise, and additional qualifications can substantially increase earning potential over time, reflecting both individual commitment to professional development and market demand for highly skilled labor.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $46,350
    25th
    $58,720
    50th (median)
    $81,480
    75th
    $97,670
    90th
    $103,930

    Detroit economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.50% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $75,123 2023 • Census ACS
    Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary vs area income 108% Median Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary is 8% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters make per hour in Detroit?

    The median hourly wage for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Detroit, MI is $39.17, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $51.82 or more per hour.

    Is Detroit above or below average for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salaries?

    The median Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary in Detroit, MI is 29.4% above the national median of $62,970. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Detroit?

    Entry-level Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters (10th percentile) earn around $46,350 per year in Detroit, MI. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $58,720.