The plumbing industry in Nashville, TN is gaining momentum with an average job growth projection of 2.7% locally 1. For more detailed projections, check the Tennessee Supply and Demand Report. The demand for skilled professionals remains consistent, in part because plumbing work is essential across residential and commercial sectors, as highlighted by IBISWorld industry analysis. Specialized certifications in gas plumbing and sustainable water systems are increasingly becoming assets in this evolving market.
| Key Data Point | Nashville, TN |
|---|---|
| Licensing Tracks | 2 (LLP & Statewide Contractor) 23 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $29–$30 (2025)* 45 |
| Total Plumbing Establishments | 2,329 in Tennessee (2025)* 4 |
| Career Growth Rate | 42,600 annual job openings expected (2019–2029)* 1 |
*May represent national or Tennessee-wide data applicable to Nashville context. For salary-specific insights, visit PayScale for Journeyman Plumbers.
Plumbing professionals in Nashville install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems, with increasing emphasis on technological and sustainability-focused practices 6. Explore Indeed's plumber career page for job listings. Responsibilities may include:
Given Nashville’s population boom and infrastructure development, plumbers are well-positioned to benefit from constant demand, especially those adopting advanced tools like smart leak detection systems 5. For licensing details, refer to ServiceTitan Tennessee Licensing.
Yes. In Nashville, plumbers must hold at least one type of license depending on the scope of their work:
While this article focuses on Nashville-specific requirements, Tennessee-wide regulations also apply through the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance.
The most common pathway to becoming a plumber is through formal apprenticeships. They typically last about 4-5 years 31, with standards set regionally based on industry needs. For additional resources, see Talent.com salary insights.
| Program Type | Suggested Duration |
|---|---|
| Traditional (Union) | 4–5 years 3 |
| Local Trades Academies | 2–3 years (Completion-focused) |
| Independent Contractor | Variable timeframes 1 |
Use platforms like Gild to search for entry-level plumbing opportunities or apprenticeships listed by local trade unions and employers. Networking through forums like UA Local 572 can also increase your chances of finding the right training match 5.
To legally perform plumbing installations or repairs in Nashville, you must complete several steps:
Options include vocational schools, local apprenticeships, or union-sponsored training via UA Local 572 5. These programs should include foundational coursework such as:
It is best to secure formal apprenticeship through reputable programs. On-site learning exposes you to hands-on work like pipe cutting, valve installation, and leak diagnosis under seasoned supervision.
After attaining licensure, you may choose to:
As of 2025, the journey typically spans about four to seven years, including licensing and job readiness stages, depending on personal pace and program availability.
Nashville’s plumbing market sees rapid entry, especially for certified professionals. Based on analysis, the salary landscape breaks down as follows:
Nashville’s market strength derives from infrastructure growth, public construction, and a thriving residential and commercial real estate sector. Even during short-term fluctuations influenced by inflation and mortgage costs, plumbers benefit from reliable demand in pipeline upgrades, repairs, and retrofitting operations.
Emerging trends in plumbing also influence demand:
These developments are increasing specialization needs and offering new career avenues—whether as business owners or niche consultants in residential, commercial, or public sectors.
One of the biggest advantages of being a plumber in Nashville is the range of career advancement options. Plumbers can elevate their careers by:
Starting an independent business is an exciting option for licensed plumbers interested in autonomy. Not only can you set your rates, but you can also take on large contracts and grow consistent client relationships over time. This option does, however, require upfront investment in insurance and equipment 1.
Whether you're seeking an introductory plumbing role or advancing to a master-level license, finding the right fit in Nashville requires proactivity.
Explore platforms like Gild for current open positions. From helper roles to plumbing apprenticeship programs, Gild features diverse opportunities available through local trade organizations like UA Local 572. For further job search, check Talent.com.
By gaining apprenticeship experience and pursuing certifications in emerging plumbing technologies like smart leak detection systems or water recycling management, Nashville plumbers can significantly enhance their career prospects 6. The extent of Nashville’s market evolution provides new professionals with opportunities across the spectrum—from residential servicing to large-scale construction projects.
Remember to revisit local Tennessee licensing updates regularly and engage in ongoing professional development. For digital resources like apprenticeship opportunities and contractor insights, visit Gild's Nashville plumbing listings to find the next stage in your plumbing journey.
https://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/plumbing-industry-statistics.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/llp/llp-license-process.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3
Tennessee Plumber FAQ | Plumbers Training Institute ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.ibisworld.com/us/industry/tennessee/plumbers/13895/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/thec/bureau/research/other-research/supply-demand/2025/2025%20Supply%20and%20Demand%20Report.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://constructioncoverage.com/research/best-paying-cities-for-plumbers ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
