What is the median salary for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Chicago, Illinois?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in the Chicago metropolitan area is $98,890.

Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?

The Chicago metro median is +2.8% versus the Illinois state median of $96,200.

How does Chicago compare to the national median for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?

The Chicago metro median is +48.9% versus the BLS national figure of $66,431.

What is the salary range for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Chicago?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,210 and the 90th-percentile at $123,600 for the Chicago 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.

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters Salary in Chicago, Illinois

Median annual$98,890

Mean annual$92,410

Range (10th to 90th)$50,210 to $123,600

Chicago, Illinois employment14,230

State vs national+48.9% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Chicago plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

The middle 50% of workers earn between $65,290 and $118,350, with a median of $98,890.

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)

01
Shut off steam, water, or other gases or liquids from pipe sections, using valve keys or wrenches.
02
Install underground storm, sanitary, or water piping systems, extending piping as needed to connect fixtures and plumbing.
03
Assemble pipe sections, tubing, or fittings, using couplings, clamps, screws, bolts, cement, plastic solvent, caulking, or soldering, brazing, or welding equipment.
04
Locate and mark the position of pipe installations, connections, passage holes, or fixtures in structures, using measuring instruments such as rulers or levels.
05
Cut, thread, or hammer pipes to specifications, using tools such as saws, cutting torches, pipe threaders, or pipe benders.
06
Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints.
07
Plan pipe system layout, installation, or repair, according to specifications.
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 Chicago, Illinois?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in the Chicago metropolitan area is $98,890.
Does Chicago pay more than the Illinois state average for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?: The Chicago metro median is +2.8% versus the Illinois state median of $96,200.
How does Chicago compare to the national median for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters?: The Chicago metro median is +48.9% versus the BLS national figure of $66,431.
What is the salary range for Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters in Chicago?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $50,210 and the 90th-percentile at $123,600 for the Chicago 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 Chicago 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.