Dover vs Smyrna: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between Dover, DE and Smyrna, DE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dover, DE | Smyrna, DE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,882 | $61,626▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.79 | $29.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,986 | $46,714▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $51,650▲ | $50,506 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,254 | $78,881▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,611▲ | $95,520 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Dover and Smyrna are closely matched on overall plumber compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Dover and Smyrna is $1,744 (2.91%). Smyrna's median is -5.78% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dover spans $61,625,Smyrna spans $48,806. Dover 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, Dover ($61,413 effective) pays 1.35% more than Smyrna ($60,596 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dover if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,611)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,413)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Choose Smyrna if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,626/year)
- ✓You prefer the Delaware area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in Dover grew 14.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.3% growth in Smyrna over the same period.
Dover, DE
$50,840 (2019) → $58,410 (2025)
Smyrna, DE
$62,184 (2024) → $60,111 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Smyrna, DE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: Dover or Smyrna?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dover and Smyrna?
Should I relocate from Dover to Smyrna as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in Dover vs Smyrna?
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