New Orleans vs Zachary: Plumber Salary (2026)
Compare plumber salaries between New Orleans, LA and Zachary, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Orleans, LA | Zachary, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,024▲ | $55,625 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.79▲ | $26.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,208 | $42,469▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,101▲ | $45,853 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,679▲ | $70,347 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $81,698 | $86,219▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,510▲ | 6 |
Verdict
New Orleans, LA offers better overall compensation for plumbers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Zachary.
The salary gap between New Orleans and Zachary is $8,399 (15.10%). New Orleans's median is -2.12% compared to the US national median of $65,408.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Orleans spans $41,490,Zachary spans $43,750. Zachary 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, New Orleans ($69,143 effective) pays 12.24% more than Zachary ($61,600 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Orleans if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,024/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,510 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,143)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Zachary if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($86,219)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, plumber salaries in New Orleans grew 18.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.5% growth in Zachary over the same period.
New Orleans, LA
$52,910 (2019) → $62,450 (2025)
Zachary, LA
$46,190 (2024) → $54,258 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Orleans, LA
Zachary, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays plumbers more: New Orleans or Zachary?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Orleans and Zachary?
Should I relocate from New Orleans to Zachary as a plumber?
What do entry-level plumbers earn in New Orleans vs Zachary?
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