Electrician Salary
Average $62,350/year (Trades) · $29.98/hour at 40 hrs/week
On a $62,350 electrician salary, expect about $11,500 in total federal deductions (income tax, Social Security, and Medicare), leaving roughly $50,800 before state taxes. Electrician wages range from about $39,400 at the apprentice level to over $85,000 in top-paying states like Illinois.
Breaking into the trade requires a 4-5 year apprenticeship and a state license, with no four-year degree needed. We cover taxes, highest-paying states, and licensing requirements below.
Filing Status
State
Hourly Rate
Hours per Pay Period
Pay Frequency
Estimates only. Not tax or legal advice. Consult a tax professional for accuracy.
Keep This Calculation Handy
Save your rate, track overtime, and see how raises affect your take-home pay
Electrician Salary Range
Electrician pay follows a clear ladder: apprentice, journeyman, master. Apprentices earn the least, journeyman electricians step up after completing their training, and master electricians with full licensing authority earn the most. Industrial electricians working in manufacturing, power generation, or oil and gas earn more than residential electricians.
Union membership is a major factor. Union electricians, particularly those affiliated with the IBEW, typically earn higher hourly rates and better benefits than non-union workers. Illinois, New York, and New Jersey consistently rank among the highest-paying states, partly because of strong union presence.
Specialization drives pay differences too. Electricians focused on renewable energy (solar, wind, EV charging), fire alarm systems, or high-voltage distribution earn higher rates. Additional certifications like low-voltage or fiber optic open extra earning opportunities.
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly | Net (federal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $39,430 | $18.96/hr | $33,862.01 |
| Median | $62,350 | $29.98/hr | $52,278.23 |
| Senior | $106,030 | $50.98/hr | $83,422.11 |
The journey from apprentice to master electrician nearly triples pay. Apprentices starting near $39,400 can expect to reach journeyman wages of $55,000-$70,000 within four to five years, with master electricians and foremen earning $80,000-$106,000 in strong markets.
Electricians who start their own contracting businesses can earn well above BLS figures, though they take on business risk. Successful electrical contractors in metropolitan areas do especially well with commercial or industrial projects.
Relative to other careers that skip a four-year degree, electricians have one of the strongest salary trajectories. The median wage of $62,350 exceeds the national median for all occupations, and the trade offers geographic flexibility: electricians are needed in every city and town.
Top-Paying States for Electricians
| State | Avg Salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $85,620 | $41.16/hr |
| New York | $84,780 | $40.76/hr |
| Oregon | $82,510 | $39.67/hr |
Education & Requirements
High school diploma followed by a 4-5 year apprenticeship combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Some complete technical school programs.
- State electrician license
- Completed apprenticeship (4-5 years)
- High school diploma or GED
- Knowledge of NEC electrical codes
Job Outlook
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. They read blueprints, test circuits, and ensure all work meets safety codes and regulations.
Related Calculators & Salaries
Electrician Salary FAQ
Common questions about earning a electrician salary
What is the average electrician salary?
The average electrician salary is $62,350 per year, or about $29.98 per hour. Master electricians and those specializing in industrial or renewable energy work can earn over $106,000.
How much do apprentice electricians make?
Apprentice electricians typically start around $39,400 per year ($18.96/hour). Pay increases as apprentices gain experience and progress through their training, with journeyman electricians earning substantially more.
Which states pay electricians the most?
Illinois leads at $85,620, followed by New York ($84,780) and Oregon ($82,510). Union electricians in major metro areas typically earn the highest wages in the trade.
Is becoming an electrician worth it financially?
For a career that skips the four-year degree, the pay is hard to beat: $62,350 median, 9% growth (well above average), and 81,000 annual openings. Going independent can push earnings much higher.