The plumbing industry is a cornerstone of daily life, keeping everything from our homes to businesses running smoothly. As technology advances and needs evolve, the world of plumbing is constantly changing with new trends and innovations.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or industry professional, staying updated on the latest statistics can offer valuable insights into this essential field. These numbers highlight the growth, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of plumbing.
Let’s take a closer look at the top 45 plumbing industry statistics that shed light on the trends and shifts driving the sector forward.
The Economic Significance of the Plumbing Sector
1. Global Plumbing Fixtures Market to Reach $107.62 Billion by 2028
Source: The Business Research Company
The global market for plumbing fixtures and fittings is projected to grow to $107.62 billion by 2028, with a robust CAGR of 7.8%. This growth is driven by increasing construction activity and rising consumer demand for high-quality, durable plumbing fixtures. As smart homes and green building trends rise, the plumbing fixtures market is poised for continued expansion.
2. U.S. Plumbing Market Valued at $121.5 Billion
Source: IBISWorld
The plumbing market in the United States is worth an estimated $121.5 billion. This impressive figure highlights the significant economic role the plumbing sector plays. Despite a moderate decline in revenue over recent years, the market remains a vital part of the U.S. economy. As construction and infrastructure demand continues, plumbing services will stay in high demand.
3. U.S. Plumbing Revenue Declines at 2.1% CAGR
Source: IBISWorld
Revenue in the U.S. plumbing industry has declined at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.1% over the past five years. This slowdown reflects market maturity and potential challenges, such as the rising cost of materials and labor. However, there is still potential for growth, especially in niche areas like smart plumbing technologies. Businesses may need to adapt to stay competitive.
4. Plumbing Pipes Market to Grow at 14.69% CAGR Until 2028
Source: PR Newswire
The plumbing pipes industry is expected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 14.69% until 2028. This surge is attributed to the increasing demand for high-performance materials, such as corrosion-resistant pipes and smart systems. Contractors can capitalize on this trend by focusing on modern, sustainable pipe solutions to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients.
5. U.S. Plumbing Market Valued at $158.6 Billion
Source: IBISWorld
The U.S. plumbing market is currently valued at $158.6 billion, indicating strong demand and ongoing investments in plumbing services. This growth reflects both the expanding population and the increasing need for plumbing infrastructure in homes and businesses. Even with market fluctuations, the sector remains one of the key components of the U.S. construction and building industry.
6. Approximately 132,000 Plumbing Businesses in the U.S.
Source: IBISWorld
There are around 132,000 plumbing businesses operating in the United States. This large number reflects a highly competitive landscape, with plenty of opportunities for smaller businesses to thrive. However, new plumbing businesses must find ways to stand out, offering competitive pricing and superior customer service to gain a loyal clientele.
7. U.S. Plumbing Job Market Set to Grow by 6% Through 2033
Source: US BLS
The plumbing job market is expected to grow by 6% through 2033, adding roughly 26,300 jobs. This growth highlights the continued demand for skilled workers in the industry. With the aging workforce and a shortage of new plumbers entering the field, businesses may need to invest in training and retention programs to meet this growing demand.
8. Nonresidential Construction Drives Plumbing Revenue
Source: IBISWorld
Commercial construction, including hotels, offices, and warehouses, accounts for over two-thirds of the revenue within the U.S. plumbing industry. This demand for plumbing services in major projects fuels substantial revenue. As businesses continue to grow and invest in new developments, plumbing experts are poised for reliable work in this expansive market.
9. Top U.S. Plumbing Companies Generated $956.6 Million in 2024
Source: IBISWorld
With over $956.6 million in revenue generated in 2024, Comfort Systems USA, Inc., Emcor Group, Inc., and Nooter Construction, Inc. stand as leaders in the U.S. plumbing market. Their substantial earnings highlight the competitive nature of the industry, offering smaller plumbing businesses valuable insights into growing their operations and winning bigger contracts.
Insights into the Plumber Labor Market
10. U.S. Plumber Average Salary: $62,214
Source: Indeed
The average salary for plumbing professionals in the United States is $62,214. This competitive wage highlights the value placed on skilled labor in the plumbing industry. For businesses, offering attractive compensation can help retain top talent and reduce turnover.
11. Plumbers Earn More in Manufacturing Than in Construction
Source: US BLS
Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters enjoy better pay in manufacturing than in heavy and civil engineering construction, signaling a shift in employment preferences. To stay competitive, plumbing companies might need to revisit their salary structures and ensure they can attract skilled professionals.
12. High Concentration of Plumbers in Specific Regions
Source: Data USA
Key regions such as York (West) and Cumberland (West) in Southern Maine, along with parts of New York and Texas, have the highest concentrations of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters. This suggests that certain locations face a higher demand for plumbing services, presenting valuable opportunities for businesses in these areas. Plumbers focusing on these high-density regions could gain better job prospects and access to a larger client pool.
13. U.S. Faces 55% Plumbing Labor Shortage
Source: Tradesmen International
The U.S. faces a plumbing labor shortage of 55%, as fewer new plumbers are entering the workforce compared to those retiring. Plumbing businesses may need to focus on training programs and retention strategies to address this gap and meet growing demand.
14. Plumber Shortage to Reach 550,000 by 2027
Source: Morning Brew
The plumbing industry is expected to be short 550,000 plumbers by 2027. As the workforce ages and the number of new entrants declines, businesses could face severe labor challenges. Investing in recruitment efforts, including apprenticeships and recruitment campaigns, will be key to overcoming this impending shortage.
15. Average Plumber Age: 41 for Men, 40 for Women
Source: BlueRecruit
With the average age of plumbers in the U.S. being 41 for men and 40 for women, the industry is clearly aging. As a large number of workers approach retirement age, businesses may face a looming labor shortage unless they actively recruit younger plumbers. To do so, offering apprenticeships, incentives, and training programs will be key to attracting the next generation of talent.
16. 504,500 Plumbers Employed in the U.S.
Source: US BLS
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 504,500 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are employed in the plumbing industry. This large workforce underlines the industry’s size and importance to the national economy. For companies, understanding workforce numbers can help plan for staffing needs and ensure capacity for handling larger projects.
17. Plumbing Industry Predominantly Male
Source: Zippia
About 96.5% of plumbers are male, with only 3.5% female workers. This highlights the gender imbalance in the industry, with significant opportunities to encourage more women to join the profession. Plumbing businesses may want to focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives to tap into this untapped talent pool.
Key Factors Driving Plumbing Service Demand
18. A Leaky Faucet Wastes 3,000 Gallons of Water Per Year
Source: iPropertyManagement
A leaky faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water annually. This statistic underscores the importance of quick repairs and regular maintenance services. Plumbing businesses can use this as an opportunity to market leak detection services and emphasize the environmental and financial benefits of fixing leaks promptly.
19. Tankless Water Heaters Up to 34% More Energy Efficient
Source: US Department of Energy
Tankless water heaters can be 24–34% more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters. With increasing energy costs, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their utility bills. Plumbers can capitalize on this by recommending tankless options as part of energy-saving upgrades in home plumbing systems.
20. Smart Bathroom Market to Grow at 10.4% CAGR Until 2027
Source: Grand View Research
The residential segment of the smart bathroom market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.4% until 2027. This indicates a strong shift toward technology-driven solutions in the home plumbing space. Businesses can capitalize on this trend by offering smart plumbing products, such as smart faucets and leak detectors, to attract tech-savvy consumers.
21. High-Efficiency Toilets Save 13,000 Gallons of Water Annually
Source: US EPA
High-efficiency toilets can save households nearly 13,000 gallons of water per year. As environmental awareness grows, homeowners are increasingly opting for water-saving solutions. Plumbing companies that promote eco-friendly products like these can tap into the growing demand for sustainability and cost savings.
22. Smart Leak Detector Market Growing at 4.4% CAGR
Source: Contractor Magazine
The smart leak detector market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4%. As more homes integrate smart home technology, these devices are becoming essential for preventing water damage and reducing water waste. Plumbers can benefit from offering these modern solutions to homeowners seeking better control over their water usage.
23. Greywater Recycling Can Save 40,000 Gallons of Water Annually
Source: Water Wise Group
Greywater recycling systems can save up to 40,000 gallons of water per year by reusing lightly used water from showers and washing machines. With increasing awareness of water conservation, greywater systems are becoming an attractive option for eco-conscious homeowners. Plumbing businesses that specialize in these systems can differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
24. Smart Toilet Market to Reach $12.9 Billion by 2026
Source: Contractor Magazine
The smart toilet market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.89%, reaching $12.9 billion by 2026. This surge in demand for smart toilets reflects consumers’ increasing interest in luxury, convenience, and sustainability. Plumbing businesses that specialize in high-tech toilet installations can attract a higher-end customer base looking for cutting-edge bathroom solutions.
25. Household Leaks Waste 10,000 Gallons of Water Per Year
Source: US EPA
Household leaks from pipes and faucets account for almost 10,000 gallons of wasted water per year. This statistic highlights a significant opportunity for plumbers to offer leak detection and repair services. By targeting homes with high water waste, plumbing businesses can help reduce costs for homeowners and increase service calls.
26. Smart Plumbing Fixtures Projected to Reach $6.7 Billion by 2027
Source: PR Newswire
The smart plumbing fixtures market is projected to be valued at $6.7 billion by 2027. The increasing demand for connected devices and advanced bathroom technology is driving this growth. Plumbing companies can seize this opportunity by offering smart faucets, showers, and other fixtures that align with the trend toward smarter homes.
Plumbing Marketing Trends and Stats
27. 54% of Customers Research Plumbing Services Online
Source: Invoca
More than half of customers research plumbing services online before making an appointment. Having detailed, accessible information about your services and pricing can increase the likelihood that potential customers will contact you. Invest in a strong online presence to convert searchers into clients.
28. 77% Read Reviews When Searching for Local Businesses
Source: BrightLocal
Seventy-seven percent of consumers read reviews when looking for local businesses. This statistic highlights the crucial role that online reviews play in attracting local plumbing clients. Encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews to help potential clients feel confident choosing your services.
29. Top Organic Search Results Get 27.6% CTR
Source: Backlinko
The top result in Google’s organic search results sees an average click-through rate (CTR) of 27.6%. Being in the top position increases your chances of gaining customer attention significantly. Invest in improving your SEO strategy to increase your organic ranking and capture more clicks.
30. Google Holds 82% of Search Engine Market Share
Source: Statista
Google dominates the search engine market with an 82% share, making it the most important platform for generating plumbing leads. If your business isn’t focusing on Google search optimization, you’re missing out on a huge potential customer base. Prioritize SEO to ensure your plumbing services show up when customers search for local help.
31. 42% of Local Queries Lead to Google Maps Pack Clicks
Source: Backlinko
Nearly 42% of local searches result in clicks on the Google Maps Pack. This indicates the importance of having an accurate and up-to-date Google My Business profile. By optimizing your local SEO, you can increase visibility and attract nearby customers searching for plumbing services.
32. 63% Trust Reviews as Much as Personal Recommendations
Source: Click Sluice
Sixty-three percent of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. This shows how powerful your online reputation can be in influencing potential customers. Actively building and promoting positive reviews will help your plumbing business stand out and gain trust in the community.
33. Online Booking Increases Revenue by Up to 120%
Source: SMB Guide
Plumbing businesses offering online booking can see an increase in revenue of up to 120%. As more consumers prefer the convenience of digital interactions, adding an online booking option is a smart move to streamline customer experience and boost business growth.
34. 51% of Customers Use Mobile to Discover New Businesses
Source: Plumbing Webmasters
Over half of customers now use mobile devices to discover new businesses, underscoring the importance of having a mobile-friendly website. Ensure your plumbing business website is optimized for mobile use to capture these potential leads while they search for services on-the-go.
35. 89% of Consumers Read Replies to Reviews
Source: Andy Beal
Almost 89% of consumers also read a business’s responses to reviews. This emphasizes the importance of engaging with your customers online, whether their feedback is positive or negative. A thoughtful, professional reply can boost your reputation and encourage more business.
36. 50% of Google Users Click Within 9 Seconds
Source: Backlinko
Half of all Google users click on a search result within nine seconds of searching. This rapid decision-making shows how crucial it is for plumbing businesses to have an optimized online presence. Appearing at the top of search results can dramatically increase your chances of attracting customers.
Customer Preferences and Behavioral Insights
37. 75% of Customers Prefer Digital Payments Over Cash or Check
Source: MarketBox
Seventy-five percent of customers now prefer digital payments over traditional cash or checks. This shift toward online and mobile payment options reflects the growing demand for convenience. Plumbing businesses should integrate digital payment methods to improve customer satisfaction and streamline their billing processes.
38. 90% of Text Messages Are Read Within 3 Minutes
Source: ClickSend
More than 90% of text messages are read within three minutes of delivery. This shows the effectiveness of text messaging for quick communication with customers. Plumbing companies can use text messaging to send appointment reminders, service updates, or promotional offers, ensuring timely communication and high engagement.
39. 76% of Consumers Prefer Personalized Communication
Source: McKinsey & Company
Seventy-six percent of consumers are more likely to purchase from brands that personalize communications. Personalization helps create a stronger connection and improves customer satisfaction. Plumbing businesses can use tailored messaging to build lasting relationships and enhance service offerings.
40. Positive Reviews Influence 68% of Customers
Source: Andy Beal
A strong 68% of customers are influenced by positive reviews when choosing a plumbing service. This shows just how important online reputation is for attracting new clients. Plumbing businesses should actively manage reviews and encourage satisfied customers to leave feedback to boost their visibility and credibility.
41. Smart Bathrooms Account for 47.9% of the North American Plumbing Market
Source: Maximize Market Research
Smart bathroom services account for nearly half of North America’s plumbing market. As consumers increasingly demand high-tech, water-saving solutions, plumbing businesses can capitalize on this trend by offering smart bathroom installations. Staying ahead of tech trends will help plumbers stay competitive in a growing market.
42. 89% of Customers Are Likely to Request Another Service After a Positive Experience
Source: Salesforce
After a positive customer service experience, 89% of clients are more likely to request additional services. This shows how important it is to go beyond just completing a job. Excellent customer service and follow-ups can lead to repeat business and loyal customers who trust your work.
43. 66% of Customers Expect Their Needs to Be Understood
Source: Salesforce
Sixty-six percent of customers expect businesses to understand their unique needs. This shows that customers value a personalized approach when selecting plumbing services. Plumbing companies should invest in customer service training and systems to better understand and meet the specific needs of each client.
44. Homeowners Pay an Average of $90 Per Hour for Plumbing Services
Source: Modernize
On average, homeowners spend $90 per hour for plumbing services. This figure reflects the cost of skilled labor and the value homeowners place on quality plumbing work. As demand for skilled tradespeople increases, prices may rise, but plumbers can justify rates by emphasizing expertise and efficient service.
45. 21% of Skilled Tradespeople Offer Third-Party Financing
Source: Jobber
Around 21% of skilled tradespeople now offer third-party financing options to customers. This growing trend highlights the importance of providing flexible payment plans to accommodate budget-conscious homeowners. Offering third-party financing could be a key differentiator in attracting new clients and securing larger projects.
Emerging Trends Impacting the Plumbing Sector
The plumbing industry is undergoing a major transformation as it adapts to new technologies and evolving consumer needs. Innovations such as smart home integration, eco-friendly solutions, and advanced pipe materials are driving change in the way plumbing services are delivered.
As the demand for sustainability and efficiency rises, the industry is shifting toward greener practices and more tech-driven solutions. Trends shaping the future include:
- Smart plumbing systems with remote diagnostics
- Sustainable materials and water-saving technologies
- Automated leak detection and repair systems
- Integration of AI for predictive maintenance
The plumbing industry is set to be more efficient, sustainable, and tech-savvy than ever before, revolutionizing how we manage water and waste in our homes and businesses.
Staying Ahead in the Evolving Plumbing Market
The plumbing industry is thriving, with growing demand and innovations transforming the way businesses operate. From workforce shifts to cutting-edge smart plumbing technologies, there’s no shortage of opportunities and challenges in today’s market.
At Comrade Digital Marketing, we understand the importance of adapting and staying ahead of the competition for plumbing companies. Our tailored digital marketing strategies help you attract more customers and stand out in a crowded industry.
Ready to take your plumbing business to the next level? Reach out to us today, and let’s craft a strategy that helps you grow!
