Embarking on a career in the plumbing trade in San Francisco, CA, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom learning, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 736,000 plumbers nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550, equivalent to $1,183 per week. In San Francisco, plumbers enjoy an average salary of $88,419 annually, translating to $1,700 per week. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring plumbers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $100,000 annually for experienced professionals.
