Several variables, such as geography, level of experience, and education, affect how much an electrician makes annually.
Hard work and a willingness to learn new skills can open many doors in the electrical field, promising not only professional growth but also financial gains.
As you gain experience and rise through the ranks from Apprentice to Journeyman to Master Electrician, your income will rise accordingly. You will be a “Master” in your area and be handsomely rewarded for your efforts at this level.
In terms of employment stability, the electrical industry is here to stay. Due to both ongoing building activity and the inevitable deterioration of existing electrical infrastructure, the need for qualified electricians is guaranteed to remain high. Electricians will always be needed since their skill set combines technical know-how with physical dexterity, the latter of which is difficult to automate.
Now is an opportune time for emerging electricians to step into the industry, ready to embrace the expanding roles in alternative energy and environmental projects.
- The median annual pay in your area, as reported by the Department of Labor.
- Learn about the typical electrical sector benefits package.
- Look into the work market for electricians to see what opportunities exist.
- By following the upcoming advice, electricians can significantly boost their earning potential.
So, without further ado, here is a quick breakdown of electrician salaries in the United States.
Contents
Electrician Salary by State
Area Name | Annual Mean Wages | Hourly Mean Wage |
---|---|---|
Alaska | $74,280 | $35.17 |
New York | $70,580 | $33.93 |
Illinois | $70,060 | $33.68 |
Oregon | $68,320 | $32.85 |
Hawaii | $67,230 | $32.32 |
New Jersey | $65,320 | $31.41 |
District of Columbia | $64,040 | $30.79 |
California | $63,820 | $30.69 |
Massachusetts | $62,140 | $29.87 |
Nevada | $60,660 | $29.16 |
Minnesota | $60,000 | $28.85 |
Washington | $60,270 | $28.29 |
Connecticut | $57,740 | $27.76 |
Indiana | $56,800 | $27.31 |
Michigan | $55,540 | $26.70 |
Missouri | $55,370 | $26.62 |
Delaware | $54,650 | $26.27 |
Maryland | $54,390 | $26.15 |
Wyoming | $54,200 | $26.06 |
Montana | $53,730 | $25.83 |
Wisconsin | $53,310 | $25.63 |
Pennsylvania | $53,280 | $25.62 |
Virgin Island | $52,600 | $25.29 |
Rhode Island | $51,230 | $24.63 |
West Virginia | $51,080 | $24.56 |
North Dakota | $50,110 | $24.09 |
Ohio | $50,030 | $24.05 |
Colorado | $49,620 | $23.85 |
Iowa | $48,460 | $23.30 |
Kansas | $48,310 | $23.23 |
New Hampshire | $48,210 | $23.18 |
Utah | $47,460 | $22.82 |
Kentucky | $47,000 | $22.59 |
New Mexico | $46,960 | $22.58 |
Louisiana | $46,200 | $22.21 |
Virginia | $45,460 | $21.85 |
Nebraska | $45,050 | $21.66 |
Maine | $44,930 | $21.60 |
Georgia | $44,870 | $21.57 |
Mississippi | $44,010 | $21.16 |
Idaho | $43,930 | $21.12 |
Oklahoma | $43,770 | $21.04 |
Texas | $43,240 | $20.79 |
Tennessee | $42,860 | $20.60 |
South Dakota | $42,630 | $20.50 |
Arizona | $42,070 | $20.23 |
Alabama | $41,990 | $20.19 |
Arkansas | $41,440 | $19.92 |
Vermont | $41,310 | $19.86 |
South Carolina | $40,320 | $19.39 |
Florida | $39,920 | $19.19 |
North Carolina | $39,850 | $19.16 |
Guam | $34,510 | $16.59 |
Puerto Rico | $24,270 | $11.67 |
Source: United States Department of Labor
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the following table displays the typical salary ranges for Electricians. This table shows us that, with the exception of Alaska, the highest salaries are found in the states that have big metropolitan centers. There are benefits and drawbacks to the high level of unionization in these states. Joining a Union might help you negotiate a higher wage and other benefits.
This can be beneficial since bargaining as an individual worker isn’t always easy, but it might be lot simpler when you’re part of a larger group. Being a part of a Union also has its perks. The Union will work to get increased paid time off for vacations and enhanced medical coverage for its members.
Some contractors are not union shops and so do not hire union members, which is one of the union’s drawbacks. A modest electrical contractor with ten workers fits this description. If his electricians went on strike, the union could easily force him out of business. Furthermore, the contractor’s ability to compete for business would be hampered by higher pay and benefits for its electricians. Another possible drawback of unionization is the possibility of wage loss in the event of a strike by the union. Visit www.ibew.org for more resources about Electrician Unions.
Market Value Compared To Other Professions
See below for compensation comparisons between electricians and other construction employees, plumbers, and HVAC professionals, among others. To sum up, it’s clear that electricians earn the most money of any of these professions.
Standardized Electrical Worker Benefits
Renowned for offering competitive wages and comprehensive benefits, the electrical field does carry more risk compared to other professions.
Work in harsh conditions, at heights, and with a variety of potentially hazardous power instruments all contribute to this. Additionally, you will be operating in close proximity to electrical current and should exercise caution.
The good news for electricians is that there are great benefits that help protect you and provide preventive treatments. On top of that, if you’re careful and are using the right list of electricians tools to help keep you safe (like insulated screwdrivers and electrical gloves) – your risk exposure will be well within reason (often lower than civilian risk exposure).
Fortunately, electricians have access to excellent protections and preventative care. Furthermore, if you’re cautious and employ the correct set of electricians equipment to assist keep you safe such as insulated screwdrivers and electrical gloves, your risk exposure will be well within reasonable bounds ,often lower than civilian risk exposure).
Benefits Packages Consist Of
- Dental Insurance
- 401k Retirement
- Health Insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid Vacation Days
It’s possible that some people will additionally include:
- Payment of a portion of a student’s college expenses
- Reimbursement for both Hand Tools and Power Tools
- Alterations and washing of uniforms are on the house.
- Insulated, electrically safe shoes are on the house.
The Future of Work in the Electrical Sector
Employment opportunities for electricians are expected to increase in the near future. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for electricians is expected to rise by 23% during the next decade. This is mostly attributable to the growth in employment opportunities in renewable energy sectors like wind power. Wind turbine electrical systems require the expertise of electricians to construct and maintain. The solar energy sector is another area where electricians play a significant role. They help in the assembly and installation of solar panels and parts. They also lay new wires to connect to the electricity grid or a home’s energy system.
Data cabling, which facilitates the transfer of information, is another field into which electricians are increasingly specializing. Typically, data cabling is now handled by its own division inside Electrical Contractors. This entails the wiring of a computer , a television , and a telephone system . Similar skillsets, such cabling installation and splicing, are required in both fields. The low voltage of data cabling means that a license is not typically required. BICSI is one of the most respected standard-setting organizations in the industry. Many of their certification programs are considered gold standards in their fields.
Another area that has become popular here recently because of all of the power outages from storms and hurricanes is home standby generators. In the case of a power outage, these generators may be put in a home and used to provide emergency electricity.A transfer switch connects the generator to the rest of the house and the systems start up automatically. Due to the connections to an electrical RV panel, they require a licensed electrician for installation. It is common that a generator company will sell a home standby generator to a homeowner and hire a contractor for the installation.
Home standby generators are another sector that has lately gained popularity here as a result of the frequent power outages caused by storms and hurricanes. In the case of a power outage, these generators may be put in a home and used to provide emergency electricity. They turn on without human intervention and connect the house to the generator through a transfer switch. Because of the wiring involved, only a qualified electrician should attempt installation in an RV. Homeowners typically work with a contractor after purchasing a home backup generator from a generator provider.
Raise Your Electrical Worker’s Pay
Raise Your Electrician Wage
Here are just a handful of the numerous available credentials for electricians today:
- All three levels of thermal imaging
- Repairing Generac Power Systems Technician
- Instruction in Programmable Logic Controllers and Variable Frequency Drives
- Bisci Certification – Copper
- Fiber Optic Certification from the American Board of Inspection, Testing, and Certification
- BICSI: Board of Information Technology Certification and Recertification
Upgrade Your Education With A Bachelor’s Or Associate’s Degree
Realize that the completion of any degree is more valuable than the specific major. Most companies simply don’t give a hoot. That you were able to commit and keep it up is all that matters to them.
One of the BEST programs in the World is Tarleton State University which is located in Stephenville, Texas. They offer a program that will give you college credit for your work hours. This could potentially eliminate 1 full year or 36 hours of college credit. Just image your junior year is already over.
This credit is considered upper-level courses, junior level, therefore you must still get your basic course done. Another benefit is that 36 hours is free! That means you only pay for 84 total hours instead of 120! THAT IS AMAZING! One of the best programs in the country. In addition, the program is 100% online. Even the test you take is online – there is not a need to even visit the campus! If you want to get ahead on learning, check out the best electrical books for beginners.
Tarleton State University, found in the city of Stephenville, Texas, is home to one of the world’s best academic programs. You can get credit for your time spent working via their curriculum. One academic year, or around 36 credits, might be spared as a result. Imagine that you’ve already completed your junior year.
You still need to finish your prerequisites even if this credit represents junior-level work. The first 36 hours are completely free, too! That translates to a total of 84 billed hours rather than 120. OMG, that’s incredible! Certainly competitive with the best in the nation. Furthermore, the entire course may be completed in the comfort of your own home, thanks to the online format. There is no requirement to set foot on campus because even the exam may be taken remotely. The greatest books for newbies in the field of electricity will help you get a good start on your studies.
Further Wage Details
How Much Money Can You Expect To Make As An Electrician Apprentice?
Apprentice electricians receive 30–50% of a journeyman’s pay since they are still learning the trade and are required to work under the supervision of a master electrician. Apprentices often earn $10/hr., or $20,000/a.
What is the Average Salary of an Electrician?
An electrical trainee can become a journeyman after gaining experience on the job and passing a certification exam. A journeyman, as opposed to an apprentice, is given more freedom to do work without close supervision. However, a journeyman electrician cannot work alone and must instead report to a master electrician for guidance and direction. A beginning journeyman may expect to earn a median annual salary of $48,000, or approximately $24 per hour.
Conclusion
With the exception of Alaska, the highest salaries are found in the states that have big metropolitan centers. Joining a Union might help you negotiate a higher wage and other benefits. In general, the electrical industry is more dangerous than its counterparts. See below for compensation comparisons between electricians and other construction employees, plumbers, and HVAC professionals. Electricians have access to excellent protections and preventative care.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for electricians is expected to rise by 23% during the next decade. This is mostly attributable to employment opportunities in renewable energy sectors like wind power and solar energy. The low voltage of data cabling means that a license is not typically required. Home standby generators are another sector that has lately gained popularity. They turn on without human intervention and connect the house to the generator through a transfer switch.
Because of the wiring involved, only a qualified electrician should attempt installation in an RV. Tarleton State University, found in the city of Stephenville, Texas, is home to one of the world’s best academic programs. They offer a program that will give you college credit for your work hours. This could potentially eliminate 1 full year or 36 hours of college credit. The program is 100% online and there is no need to even visit the campus.
An electrical trainee can become a journeyman after gaining experience on the job and passing a certification exam. A journeyman may expect to earn a median annual salary of $48,000, or approximately $24 per hour. Apprentices often earn $10/hr., or $20,000/a.
Content Summary:
- According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the following table displays the typical salary ranges for Electricians.
- This table shows us that, with the exception of Alaska, the highest salaries are found in the states that have big metropolitan centers.
- There are benefits and drawbacks to the high level of unionization in these states.
- Joining a Union might help you negotiate a higher wage and other benefits.
- Being a part of a Union also has its perks.
- Some contractors are not union shops and so do not hire union members, which is one of the union’s drawbacks.
- Furthermore, the contractor’s ability to compete for business would be hampered by higher pay and benefits for its electricians.
- Another possible drawback of unionization is the possibility of wage loss in the event of a strike by the union.
- Visit www.ibew.org for more resources about Electrician Unions.
- To sum up, it’s clear that electricians earn the most money of any of these professions.
- The electrical industry is well-known for its generous wage and benefits packages for its employees.
- In general, the electrical industry is more dangerous than its counterparts.
- Work in harsh conditions, at heights, and with a variety of potentially hazardous power instruments all contribute to this.
- Additionally, you will be operating in close proximity to electrical current and should exercise caution.
- The good news for electricians is that there are great benefits that help protect you and provide preventive treatments.
- On top of that, if you’re careful and are using the right list of electricians tools to help keep you safe (like insulated screwdrivers and electrical gloves) – your risk exposure will be well within reason (often lower than civilian risk exposure).
- Fortunately, electricians have access to excellent protections and preventative care.
- Furthermore, if you’re cautious and employ the correct set of electricians equipment to assist keep you safe such as insulated screwdrivers and electrical gloves, your risk exposure will be well within reasonable bounds ,often lower than civilian risk exposure).
- Insulated, electrically safe shoes are on the house.
- Employment opportunities for electricians are expected to increase in the near future.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for electricians is expected to rise by 23% during the next decade.
- This is mostly attributable to the growth in employment opportunities in renewable energy sectors like wind power.
- Wind turbine electrical systems require the expertise of electricians to construct and maintain.
- The solar energy sector is another area where electricians play a significant role.
- They help in the assembly and installation of solar panels and parts.
- They also lay new wires to connect to the electricity grid or a home’s energy system.
- Typically, data cabling is now handled by its own division inside Electrical Contractors.
- This entails the wiring of a computer , a television , and a telephone system .
- Similar skillsets, such cabling installation and splicing, are required in both fields.
- The low voltage of data cabling means that a license is not typically required.
- BICSI is one of the most respected standard-setting organizations in the industry.
- Another area that has become popular here recently because of all of the power outages from storms and hurricanes is home standby generators.
- Due to the connections to an electrical RV panel, they require a licensed electrician for installation.
- It is common that a generator company will sell a home standby generator to a homeowner and hire a contractor for the installation.
- Because of the wiring involved, only a qualified electrician should attempt installation in an RV.
- Homeowners typically work with a contractor after purchasing a home backup generator from a generator provider.
- Raise Your Electrical Worker’s Pay Raise Your Electrician Wage Here are just a handful of the numerous available credentials for electricians today: All three levels of thermal imaging Repairing Generac Power Systems Technician Instruction in Programmable Logic Controllers and Variable Frequency Drives Bisci Certification – Copper Fiber Optic Certification from the American Board of Inspection, Testing, and Certification BICSI: Board of Information Technology Certification and Recertification Upgrade Your Education With A Bachelor’s Or Associate’s Degree
- Realize that the completion of any degree is more valuable than the specific major.
- Most companies simply don’t give a hoot.
- That you were able to commit and keep it up is all that matters to them.
- One of the BEST programs in the World is Tarleton State University which is located in Stephenville, Texas.
- They offer a program that will give you college credit for your work hours.
- This could potentially eliminate 1 full year or 36 hours of college credit.
- Just image your junior year is already over.
- This credit is considered upper-level courses, junior level, therefore you must still get your basic course done.
- Another benefit is that 36 hours is free!
- That means you only pay for 84 total hours instead of 120!
- One of the best programs in the country.
- In addition, the program is 100% online.
- Even the test you take is online – there is not a need to even visit the campus!
- If you want to get ahead on learning, check out the best electrical books for beginners.
- Tarleton State University, found in the city of Stephenville, Texas, is home to one of the world’s best academic programs.
- You can get credit for your time spent working via their curriculum.
- Imagine that you’ve already completed your junior year.
- You still need to finish your prerequisites even if this credit represents junior-level work.
- The first 36 hours are completely free, too!
- Certainly competitive with the best in the nation.
- Furthermore, the entire course may be completed in the comfort of your own home, thanks to the online format.
- There is no requirement to set foot on campus because even the exam may be taken remotely.
- The greatest books for newbies in the field of electricity will help you get a good start on your studies.
- Apprentice electricians receive 30–50% of a journeyman’s pay since they are still learning the trade and are required to work under the supervision of a master electrician.
- or $20,000/a.
- An electrical trainee can become a journeyman after gaining experience on the job and passing a certification exam.
- A journeyman, as opposed to an apprentice, is given more freedom to do work without close supervision.
- However, a journeyman electrician cannot work alone and must instead report to a master electrician for guidance and direction.
- A beginning journeyman may expect to earn a median annual salary of $48,000, or approximately $24 per hour.
Common Benefit packages for Electricians
In addition to a great electrician salary, a great benefits package is a very common practice in the electrical field. The electrical industry as a whole has a higher rate of accidents than most related industries.
This is due to having to commonly perform your job in hard working environments, working on top of ladders, and work with a number of different power tools (such as hammer drills) which all can be dangerous under the right circumstances. Also, you’ll obviously be working near electricity – so you need to be careful.
The good news for electricians is that there are great benefits that help protect you and provide preventive treatments. On top of that, if you’re careful and are using the right list of electricians tools to help keep you safe (like insulated screwdrivers and electrical gloves) – your risk exposure will be well within reason (often lower than civilian risk exposure).
Most benefit packages include:
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Paid Vacation Days
- 401k Retirement
- Life insurance
In addition to the items above some may also include:
- College tuition reimbursement
- Hand Tools and Power Tools reimbursements
- Free pair of Electrically certified insulated boots
- Free uniform cleaning and repairs
Job Outlook for the Electrical Industry
The Job outlook for Electricians looks very promising. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the growth rate of Electricians to be 23% growth rate over the next 10 years. This is due primarily to new job creations in the alternate power, for example, wind energy. Electricians are involved in the building and maintaining of electrical systems for Wind Turbines. Another area electricians are heavily involved would be in the solar energy industry. They are involved in the construction phase of solar panels and component installations. They also install new cables for transmitting power to a home’s energy system or back on the power grid.
The transmission of data, data cabling, is another area that electricians are becoming involved. These days most Electrical Contractors have a dedicated department just for data cabling. This includes installing computer (Cat5, Cat6, and Fiber), TV (Coax), and Voice (Cat5 and Cat6). This area is very similar to the electrical field both require installing cabling and terminating. The benefit of Data cabling is that most areas do not require you to have a license because the voltage is 12-24v. There are Standards that must be followed and one of the best is BICSI. They offer many certification programs that are recognized as the industry leader.
Another area that has become popular here recently because of all of the power outages from storms and hurricanes is home standby generators. These types of generators are installed at a home and proved emergency power in the event of a power failure. They automatically start themselves and transfer power through a transfer switch from the generator to the entire home. Due to the connections to an electrical RV panel, they require a licensed electrician for installation. It is common that a generator company will sell a home standby generator to a homeowner and hire a contractor for the installation.
Increase Your Salary as an Electrician
Obtain Additional Certifications
There are so many different certifications for electricians these days here are a few examples:
- Thermal imaging – Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3
- Generac – Generator Maintenance Technician
- Bisci – Copper Certification
- Bisci – Fiber Optic Certification
- Bisci – Technician Certification
- Variable Frequency Drive Training
- PLC Technician Training
Obtain an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree
Now when it comes to school I know that this was an area of struggle for me because I love to work with my hands and I had a hard time focusing on school. But these days if it is your desire to move up the corporate ladder or enter into a management role it’s a must-have. Understand that it does not matter what your degree is in just that you completed it. Employers do not care. They only care that you were able to dedicate yourself and stay committed.
One of the BEST programs in the World is Tarleton State University which is located in Stephenville, Texas. They offer a program that will give you college credit for your work hours. This could potentially eliminate 1 full year or 36 hours of college credit. Just image your junior year is already over.
This credit is considered upper-level courses, junior level, therefore you must still get your basic course done. Another benefit is that 36 hours is free! That means you only pay for 84 total hours instead of 120! THAT IS AMAZING! One of the best programs in the country. In addition, the program is 100% online. Even the test you take is online – there is not a need to even visit the campus! If you want to get ahead on learning, check out the best electrical books for beginners.
Additional Salary Information
How Much does an Apprentice Electrician Make?
Since apprentice electricians are still in training and must be overseen by a fully certified electrician, their salary will only be 30 to 50 percent of that of a journeyman. Apprentices usually make about $10 an hour, or $20,000 per year.
How Much Does a Journeyman Electrician make?
After completing a certain amount of on-the-job training and passing an exam, an apprentice electrician can be promoted to a journeyman. Unlike an apprentice, a journeyman is permitted to complete tasks without direct supervision. However, a journeyman cannot run his own business but must be under the general supervision of a master electrician. The national average for a starting journeyman is $48,000 a year, or about $24 an hour.
How Much Does a Master Electrician Make?
Master electricians oversee the work done by journeymen and get work permits. They can work for contractors or run their own companies. The average master electrician salary is about $55,000 a year.
How Much Does a Residential Electrician Make?
A residential electrician does electrical work in people’s homes. Their average salary is around $32,000 a year.
How Much Does an Electrical Technician Make?
Electrical technicians work with specialized electrical equipment such as circuit breakers and generators. Their starting salary is around $40,000 a year, but as they gain experience, they can expect a dramatic increase in pay. Their average salary is $67,000 per year.
How Much Does an Industrial Electrician Make?
Commercial electricians maintain and install electrical units for large companies. A commercial electrician salary depends on what company he works for. If he works for a building equipment contractor, he will make around $50,000. If he works for the government, he will make $54,000, and $75,000 if he works for a motion picture company.
How Much Does an Industrial Electrician Make?
Industrial electricians maintain electrical equipment for factories and production companies. They make about $41,000 annually.
How Much does an Electrical Business Make in a Year?
The amount of money an electrical business will make in a year depends on its location, reputation, and number of employees. However, even small electrical businesses boast annual profits of over $100,000.
One benefit of being an electrician is that there are so many opportunities for advancement. You will start off making an apprentice electrician salary, but as you gain valuable experience, you will increase your earning potential.