Plumber vs Construction Manager: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Plumber
Install and repair pipes, fixtures, and plumbing systems in buildings.
Construction Manager
Plan and oversee construction projects from planning through completion.
Construction Manager earns more on average — the national median is $43,000/year (69%) higher than a Plumber. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Plumber vs Construction Manager — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Plumber | Construction Manager | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $90,412 | $149,615 | Plumber $59,203 |
| New York, NY | $74,492 | $124,423 | Plumber $49,931 |
| Seattle, WA | $86,433 | $145,135 | Plumber $58,702 |
| Austin, TX | $68,479 | $117,095 | Plumber $48,616 |
| Chicago, IL | $65,596 | $112,629 | Plumber $47,033 |
| Boston, MA | $83,325 | $137,359 | Plumber $54,034 |
| London, UK | £47,528 | £84,148 | Plumber $36,620 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$81,287 | CA$142,060 | Plumber $60,773 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Plumber or Construction Manager earn more?+
A Construction Manager earns more on average. The national median salary for a Plumber is $62,000/year, compared to $105,000/year for a Construction Manager — a difference of $43,000 (69%).
Which has better career growth — Plumber or Construction Manager?+
Plumber roles are growing at 5% YoY while Construction Manager demand is growing at 8% YoY. Construction Manager has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Plumber to Construction Manager?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Plumber or Construction Manager?+
Plumber has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 15%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.