Starting a plumbing business is a solid bet in the trades – people are always going to need someone to fix leaks, unclog drains, and install pipes. But where you set up shop can make a huge difference in how fast your business takes off. Some states are goldmines for plumbing businesses, while others might have you struggling to stay afloat. So, if you’re thinking of starting your own plumbing company, let’s talk about the best states to do it in.
What Makes a State Ideal for a Plumbing Business?
Not every state is created equal when it comes to business opportunities. Here’s what you should be looking at before setting up your plumbing business:
- Demand: How many homes and businesses are in constant need of plumbing services?
- Licensing Requirements: Some states make it easier to get licensed and start working.
- Competition: Too much competition can make it harder to stand out.
- Cost of Doing Business: Taxes, permits, and startup costs vary from state to state.
- Wages & Pricing: The average rates plumbers can charge in different states.
- Future Growth: Are people moving in, or are they leaving? A growing population means more plumbing work.
Now, let’s dive into the top states that check the most boxes for a new plumbing business.
1. Texas – The Land of Opportunity for Plumbers
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the opportunities for plumbers. The state’s population is booming, with cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston growing at crazy speeds. More homes and businesses mean more pipes, more leaks, and more work for plumbers.
Why Texas is great for plumbers:
- Licensing isn’t overly complicated.
- No state income tax = more money in your pocket.
- The housing market is always moving, keeping plumbers busy with new construction and repairs.
- Plumbers in Texas make an average of $60K – $80K per year, depending on experience and location.
2. Florida – Year-Round Business and Booming Construction
Florida isn’t just for retirees – it’s one of the fastest-growing states in the country. The warm weather means plumbing businesses can run year-round without the slowdowns that cold winters bring.
Why Florida works:
- Massive population growth = constant demand for plumbing.
- Plenty of new construction and renovations.
- No state income tax.
- Water heater and sewer issues are common, meaning steady work.
3. California – High Demand, High Rewards
California can be a tough place to do business, but the demand for plumbers is through the roof. If you can handle the licensing process and the cost of living, you’ll have no shortage of jobs.
Pros:
- Some of the highest plumbing wages in the country – around $70K – $100K per year.
- Huge population means constant demand.
- Many older homes need plumbing upgrades.
- The climate allows for year-round work.
Cons:
- High business taxes and licensing fees.
- Heavy competition, especially in big cities.
4. Colorado – A Growing Market With Less Competition
Colorado’s population has been growing fast, but the plumbing market isn’t as saturated as other states. It’s a great place to set up shop if you want room to grow without fighting for every job.
Why Colorado is a solid choice:
- Booming housing market means more installations and repairs.
- Good wages – plumbers make around $65K per year.
- Licensing is manageable compared to some stricter states.
- Plenty of new construction projects needing skilled plumbers.
5. North Carolina – Low Cost, High Opportunity
North Carolina is an up-and-coming spot for tradespeople. The state is attracting businesses and families, which means more homes, more pipes, and more plumbing work.
Why North Carolina stands out:
- Low cost of living makes it easier to start a business.
- Competitive but not overly saturated market.
- Good wages and affordable housing.
- New businesses get tax incentives, depending on location.
How to Get Your Plumbing Business Off the Ground
Once you’ve picked the right state, you need to get your business running smoothly. Here are some key steps to follow:
1. Get Licensed and Certified
Most states require you to have a plumbing license before you can start working. Some require apprenticeships first, while others let you test straight into a journeyman license.
2. Get the Right Tools and Equipment
You don’t need to go all out at first, but make sure you’ve got the essentials – pipe wrenches, augers, inspection cameras, and a reliable work truck.
3. Market Your Business
Word of mouth is king in the plumbing world, but having a professional website, a solid Google Business profile, and some local advertising helps get your name out there.
4. Use Software to Stay Organized
A good plumbing business isn’t just about fixing pipes – it’s about staying organized. Field Promax helps you manage jobs, schedule appointments, send invoices, and keep track of customer history – all from one easy-to-use platform. The less time you spend on paperwork, the more time you have to take on jobs and grow your business.
5. Focus on Customer Service
Good plumbers get work. Great plumbers get repeat customers. Be on time, do quality work, and treat customers with respect – they’ll call you again and refer you to others.
Future Trends in the Plumbing Industry
The plumbing industry is evolving, and staying ahead of trends can give you an edge. Here are some things to keep an eye on:
- Smart home plumbing: More homeowners are installing smart leak detection systems and water-saving fixtures.
- Eco-friendly solutions: Green plumbing is becoming a big deal, with more demand for energy-efficient water heaters and low-flow fixtures.
- Aging infrastructure: In older states like New York and Pennsylvania, aging pipes need replacement, meaning steady work for skilled plumbers.
- Skilled trades shortage: Fewer young people are entering the trades, meaning those who do will be in high demand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about starting a plumbing business, picking the right state can set you up for success. Texas, Florida, California, Colorado, and North Carolina all offer great opportunities depending on your goals and budget. No matter where you set up shop, focus on quality work, smart business practices, and using the right tools to stay organized. The plumbing business isn’t just about fixing leaks – it’s about building a name people trust.
