How Much Does a Plumber Cost?
Updated October 2026. Prices are national estimates from the sources below and change by location and over time.
Most plumbing jobs are priced by the hour or as a flat rate per job, often with a service call or trip fee. Knowing the usual ranges helps you compare quotes from plumbers near you.
Typical rates
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Average plumbing visit | About $336 (most pay $180 – $494) |
| Hourly rate | Usually $70 – $120 per hour (full range $45 – $200) |
| Service call fee | $100 – $250, often including the first hour |
| Evenings, weekends, holidays | About 1.5× to 3× the normal hourly rate |
Common repairs
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Clearing a clogged drain | $95 – $500 |
| Toilet repair | $100 – $300 |
| Faucet or fixture replacement | $150 – $600 |
| Main water shut-off valve replacement | $150 – $600 |
| Water heater repair | $150 – $750 |
| Water heater installation | $800 – $2,000 |
| Burst pipe repair | $200 – $3,000 |
How to get a clear price
- Describe the problem and send photos before the visit.
- Ask if the service call fee is applied to the repair.
- Ask for the price in writing before work starts.
- Ask whether parts are included and what warranty applies.
- For a leak, shut off the water at the main valve if it is safe to do so.