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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters salary in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$64,030
Mean annual$71,000
Range (10th to 90th)$47,150 to $105,800
Washington, D.C., District of Columbia employment8,780
State vs national-3.6% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Washington, D.C. plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$47,15025TH$52,820MEDIAN$64,03075TH$81,44090TH$105,800

The middle 50% of workers earn between $52,820 and $81,440, with a median of $64,030.

Typical entry

  • Education

    High school diploma

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    Apprenticeship

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Building and Construction

    Knowledge

    4.3 / 5
  • Mechanical

    Knowledge

    4.3 / 5
  • Design

    Knowledge

    3.8 / 5
  • Mathematics

    Knowledge

    3.8 / 5
  • Problem Sensitivity

    Ability

    3.8 / 5
  • Near Vision

    Ability

    3.6 / 5
  • Finger Dexterity

    Ability

    3.6 / 5
  • Customer and Personal Service

    Knowledge

    3.6 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.

  2. 02

    Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.

  3. 03

    Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.

  4. 04

    Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.

  5. 05

    Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.

  6. 06

    Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.

  7. 07

    Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.

  8. 08

    Review blueprints, building codes, or specifications to determine work details or procedures.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is $64,030.
Does Washington, D.C. pay more than the District of Columbia state average for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
The Washington, D.C. metro median is -21.9% versus the District of Columbia state median of $81,950.
How does Washington, D.C. compare to the national median for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
The Washington, D.C. metro median is -3.6% versus the BLS national figure of $66,431.
What is the salary range for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Washington, D.C.?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $47,150 and the 90th-percentile at $105,800 for the Washington, D.C. metro area.
What education is required for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as High school diploma. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Washington, D.C. CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.