Diesel Mechanic vs Plumber: which pays more?
Plumbers earn about $2,000 more per year than diesel mechanics — roughly 3% higher at the national median. Here is how the two careers compare on pay, training, and outlook.
Diesel Mechanic
$59,000
median per year
Diesel mechanics inspect, repair, and overhaul buses, trucks, and other diesel-powered equipment.
Full diesel mechanic salary data →Plumber
$61,000
median per year
Plumbers install and repair pipes that carry water, gas, and waste in homes and commercial buildings.
Full plumber salary data →Side-by-side breakdown
| Metric | Diesel Mechanic | Plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Median annual salary | $59,000 | $61,000 |
| Median hourly pay | $28 | $29 |
| Entry-level (10th percentile) | $42,000 | $37,000 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $82,000 | $98,000 |
| Education required | Postsecondary diesel technology program or on-the-job training. | High school diploma plus 4–5 year apprenticeship; license required in most states. |
| Job outlook | 4% growth through 2033 — freight fleets need maintenance. | 2% growth through 2033 — steady demand for maintenance and construction. |
Pay by state
| State | Diesel Mechanic | Plumber | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $69,500 | $72,000 | −$2,500 for Plumber |
| New York | $67,500 | $78,000 | −$10,500 for Plumber |
| Washington | $66,000 | $80,000 | −$14,000 for Plumber |
| Illinois | $60,000 | $82,000 | −$22,000 for Plumber |
| Texas | $57,000 | $54,000 | +$3,000 for Diesel Mechanic |
| Michigan | $56,000 | $58,000 | −$2,000 for Plumber |
| Ohio | $55,500 | $60,000 | −$4,500 for Plumber |
| Florida | $54,500 | $48,000 | +$6,500 for Diesel Mechanic |
Which career should you choose?
Pay is only one part of the decision. Plumbers earn more on paper, but high school diploma plus 4–5 year apprenticeship; license required in most states. takes longer and costs more than postsecondary diesel technology program or on-the-job training.. If you want to start earning sooner, diesel mechanic is usually the faster route. If long-term earning ceiling matters most, plumber tops out at $98,000 versus $82,000.
Job security also differs: diesel mechanic outlook is "4% growth through 2033 — freight fleets need maintenance." while plumber outlook is "2% growth through 2033 — steady demand for maintenance and construction."