How Much Does a Plumber Cost? (2026)
By the Home Repair One data team · Updated July 2026 · Ranges from our estimator engine
Short answer: In 2026, a plumber charges about $75–$150 per hour plus a service-call fee that often covers the first hour. Simple repairs, a leak, a faucet, a running toilet, typically run $150–$500. Bigger jobs are priced by the job, not the hour: a water-heater replacement runs $1,200–$2,500, and drain or sewer work ranges from a $150 clearing to thousands for a line repair. Emergency and after-hours service carries a premium. The main levers on your bill are whether it's a repair or a replacement, the fixture quality, and how accessible the problem is.
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Plumber hourly rates and service fees
Most plumbers charge $75–$150 per hour, and nearly all charge a service-call or trip fee, often $75–$200, that may cover the first hour of work. Licensed master plumbers and emergency calls sit at the top of the range.
For anything beyond a quick repair, plumbers usually quote a flat price by the job after seeing it, which protects you from a slow clock on a complicated fix.
Plumbing prices by job
Here are 2026 national ranges for common plumbing work, computed from our cost model. Run the estimator for a range tuned to your scope and ZIP.
| Job | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Leak repair | $175–$925 |
| Water heater | $750–$3,850 |
| Faucet & toilet | $150–$700 |
| Drain & sewer | $175–$925 |
What counts as a plumbing emergency
A leak you can't shut off, no water, a burst pipe, or a sewage backup is an emergency, shut the main valve if you can and call right away, and expect an after-hours premium. A slow drip, a running toilet, or a single slow drain can wait for a scheduled visit at standard rates, which saves the premium.
What changes your price
- Repair versus replacement, a rebuild is far cheaper than a new fixture.
- Fixture quality, if you're installing new.
- Access, an exposed line versus in-wall, slab, or crawlspace work.
- Emergency or after-hours service premiums.
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FAQ
Why do plumbers charge a service-call fee?
The trip fee covers travel, the truck stock, and diagnosis. Many plumbers credit the first hour of work against it, so it isn't purely an add-on, ask how yours applies it.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater?
A standard tank replacement runs $1,200–$2,500 installed; a tankless upgrade costs more but lasts longer. See our water-heater guide for the full breakdown.
Can I save money by supplying my own fixtures?
Often yes, buying your own faucet or toilet lets you control quality and price, and the plumber charges for labor and any valves or supply lines. Confirm the fixture fits your setup first.