What should you charge for plumbing in 2026? Average rates range $150–$600 per job. See typical job costs, what affects pricing, and build a professional proposal.
Typical market range. Actual costs vary by region, job scope, and provider experience.
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Drain unclogging | $150–$300 |
| Toilet repair or replacement | $200–$500 |
| Water heater installation | $800–$2,000 |
| Pipe repair or replacement | $300–$1,500 |
Prices are U.S. market averages for 2026. Local rates vary.
Ready to send a proposal?
Use our free plumbing proposal template. Sample proposal, section-by-section tips, and what clients want to see.
View Plumbing template →Plumbers typically charge $75–$150/hr for standard work, plus a service call fee of $50–$100. Emergency calls run $150–$300/hr. Most jobs are quoted flat-rate based on the specific repair.
Permits are typically required for new installations, water heater replacements, and major pipe work. Repairs and minor replacements usually don't require permits, but check with your local building department.
For anything beyond basic fixture replacement, a licensed plumber is worth the premium. They carry liability insurance, know local code, and their work is inspectable — which matters when you sell the home.
BidMaker lets you quote plumbing jobs in minutes. Set your rates once — proposals write themselves.
Start for freeFree plan: 3 proposals/month. No credit card.
See a sample plumbing proposal with tips and what to include.
View Plumbing Template