What plumbers should charge in District of Columbia.
Fair billed labor here runs about $72–$138/hour, about 58% above the median US state. Every number below comes from what plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters actually earn in District of Columbia; the math is on this page, in the open.
How much should plumbers charge in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters earn $35.88–$55.00 per hour (median $48.57, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025), about 58% above the median US state for this trade. A legitimate business bills 2–2.5× wages to cover payroll taxes, insurance, equipment, overhead and profit, so fair billed labor in District of Columbia runs about $72–$138 per hour. For example, water heater replacement (tank) is about $225–$825 in fair labor, before materials.
Fair price by job
Water heater replacement (tank)
That assumes a like-for-like 40–50 gallon tank swap with code-required fittings.
Plus materials: the tank itself is the biggest line on the bid. Ask for the model number and look up its street price.
Typical labor: 3–6 hours at $72–$138/hr billed.
Faucet or fixture replacement
That assumes one kitchen or bath fixture with reachable shutoffs.
Typical labor: 1–2 hours at $72–$138/hr billed.
Main line clog / drain clearing
That assumes cable-machine clearing through an accessible cleanout; camera inspection or excavation is a separate decision.
Typical labor: 2–4 hours at $72–$138/hr billed.
Before you hire in District of Columbia
Home improvement contractors and specialty trades are licensed by the District.
How to verify a District of Columbia license · how to get comparable bids · track your quotes side by side (free, no account).
Find plumbers near you in District of Columbia
Other fair price checks in District of Columbia
Compare plumbers rates across all states · all fair price checks