What plumbers should charge in Washington.
Fair billed labor here runs about $58–$129/hour, about 27% above the median US state. Every number below comes from what plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters actually earn in Washington; the math is on this page, in the open.
How much should plumbers charge in Washington?
In Washington, plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters earn $28.86–$51.64 per hour (median $38.96, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025), about 27% 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 Washington runs about $58–$129 per hour. For example, water heater replacement (tank) is about $175–$775 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 $58–$129/hr billed.
Faucet or fixture replacement
That assumes one kitchen or bath fixture with reachable shutoffs.
Typical labor: 1–2 hours at $58–$129/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 $58–$129/hr billed.
Before you hire in Washington
Contractors register with L&I; the "Verify" tool shows bond, insurance and lawsuits against the bond. One of the best lookup tools in the country — use it.
How to verify a Washington license · how to get comparable bids · track your quotes side by side (free, no account).
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Other fair price checks in Washington
Compare plumbers rates across all states · all fair price checks