Electricians vs Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Electricians
Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters
Median Salary
$62,350
$62,970
10-Year Job Growth
+5.2%
+4.9%
Training Length
4-5 years
4-5 years
Typical Path
IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required
UA apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license required
Salary difference: $620 (1.0%) in favor of Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters
Who should choose Electricians?
Electricians may be the right fit if you're interested in install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures in buildings and other structures.
Typical path: IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required
Explore Electricians →Who should choose Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters?
Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters may be the right fit if you're interested in assemble, install, and repair pipes, fittings, and fixtures for water, gas, and drainage systems.
Typical path: UA apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license required
Explore Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters →Frequently Asked Questions
Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters earn more on average. The national median salary for plumbers, pipefitters & steamfitters is $62,970, which is $620 more than electricians ($62,350).
Electricians typically require 4-5 years of training (IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required). Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters typically require 4-5 years (UA apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license required).
Electricians have a projected 10-year growth of 5.2%, while plumbers, pipefitters & steamfitters have a projected growth of 4.9%. Electricians have slightly better growth prospects.