Appleton vs Wisconsin Rapids: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between Appleton, WI and Wisconsin Rapids, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Wisconsin Rapids, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,062▲ | $80,049 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.22▲ | $38.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,243 | $59,296▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,578 | $62,791▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,328▲ | $102,463 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $122,901 | $124,076▲ |
| Total Employed | 890▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Appleton, WI offers better overall compensation for plumbers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wisconsin Rapids.
The salary gap between Appleton and Wisconsin Rapids is $14,013 (17.51%). Appleton's median is +43.81% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Appleton spans $68,658,Wisconsin Rapids spans $64,780. Appleton has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Appleton ($101,778 effective) pays 18.75% more than Wisconsin Rapids ($85,706 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Appleton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,062/year)
- ✓Larger job market (890 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,778)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Wisconsin Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,076)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in Appleton grew 35.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.6% growth in Wisconsin Rapids over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$67,890 (2019) → $91,750 (2025)
Wisconsin Rapids, WI
$61,658 (2024) → $78,081 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: Appleton or Wisconsin Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Appleton and Wisconsin Rapids?
Should I relocate from Appleton to Wisconsin Rapids as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in Appleton vs Wisconsin Rapids?
Written by Samuel Torres, CWP
Career Analyst
Samuel Torres has 10 years of experience in plumbing. He specializes in residential plumbing systems. He has worked with several home improvement companies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.52% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Torres, CWP, a licensed plumber with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov