Electrician Salary Guide 2026
Salary by Experience Level
Learning the trade under supervision. Pay increases each year of apprenticeship.
Taking on more complex tasks. Usually at 60-80% of journeyman rate.
Fully licensed. Can work independently and supervise apprentices.
Can pull permits, design systems, and supervise large projects.
Running your own electrical business. Income varies with business size.
Salary by State
Top Paying States
Lower Paying States
Note: High-salary states often have higher costs of living. Consider local cost of living when comparing salaries.
Top Paying Metro Areas
Factors Affecting Electrician Salary
Union vs. Non-Union: Union electricians typically earn 15-30% more with better benefits
Specialization: Industrial, solar, and low-voltage specialists often earn more
Overtime: Construction booms mean significant overtime opportunities
Cost of Living: High-salary states often have high living costs—Alaska pays well but everything costs more
Job Outlook
Employment of electricians is projected to grow 9% over the next decade, faster than average. Demand is driven by construction growth, the shift to renewable energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure. Electricians with solar, EV charging, and smart home experience will be particularly in demand.
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Salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. Data reflects national and state-level statistics and may not reflect local market conditions.