Ferndale vs Kalamazoo: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between Ferndale, MI and Kalamazoo, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ferndale, MI | Kalamazoo, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,090 | $93,016▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.58 | $44.72▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,312▲ | $49,415 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,913 | $62,240▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $97,396▲ | $93,816 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,940▲ | $114,484 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 870▲ |
Verdict
Kalamazoo, MI offers better overall compensation for plumbers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ferndale.
The salary gap between Ferndale and Kalamazoo is $16,926 (22.24%). Kalamazoo's median is +42.21% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ferndale spans $63,628,Kalamazoo spans $65,069. Kalamazoo has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced plumbers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kalamazoo ($98,077 effective) pays 20.13% more than Ferndale ($81,642 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ferndale if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,940)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Kalamazoo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($93,016/year)
- ✓Larger job market (870 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,077)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in Ferndale grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.3% growth in Kalamazoo over the same period.
Ferndale, MI
$61,912 (2024) → $74,220 (2025)
Kalamazoo, MI
$70,690 (2019) → $90,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ferndale, MI
Kalamazoo, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: Ferndale or Kalamazoo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ferndale and Kalamazoo?
Should I relocate from Ferndale to Kalamazoo as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in Ferndale vs Kalamazoo?
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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