How much do electricians make?

Experience is one of the biggest factors in electrician pay.

• Entry-level electricians typically earn around $40,000/year.

• Journeymen often make $60,000–$70,000/year.

• Master electricians with years of expertise can exceed $80,000 annually, especially if they run their own business or specialize in high-demand sectors like renewable energy or industrial systems.

As experience grows, electricians take on more responsibility, troubleshoot complex projects, and often supervise teams, leading to higher wages.

Yes. In addition to base pay, many electricians receive benefits such as:

• Health insurance

• Retirement plans (401k)

• Paid vacation and sick leave

• Bonuses and overtime opportunities

• Tool or equipment allowances

• Continuing education programs to maintain licenses

These benefits can add thousands of dollars in value each year and make the profession attractive not only for pay but also for stability and long-term growth.

As of 2025, the highest-paying states for electricians include:

• California – Average salaries often exceed $75,000+, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. However, the high cost of living in these areas can reduce how far your paycheck stretches.

• New York & Massachusetts – Electricians here earn $70,000+ annually, but expenses in metro areas like New York City or Boston are also among the highest in the nation.

• Washington & Alaska – Salaries often surpass $70,000 with strong demand in both states. Alaska offers high wages to attract skilled tradespeople, though the remote lifestyle and costs of goods can balance that out.

• Texas & Florida – While average salaries may be slightly lower (often $60,000–$65,000), the cost of living is significantly more affordable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. This means electricians in these states often get more value out of their income.

Bottom line: If you’re looking strictly at salary numbers, California and New York top the charts. But if you’re considering where your money goes the furthest, states like Texas and Florida can be more appealing because electricians there can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with lower living costs.

Absolutely. Certified electricians generally earn more than those without certifications. Specialized certifications, such as in solar power systems, industrial wiring, or advanced safety standards, increase both pay and career opportunities. Employers value certifications because they prove a higher level of skill, safety, and efficiency. Over time, certified electricians often move into supervisory or high-paying specialized roles.

On average, electricians earn $25 to $45 per hour in 2025. Entry-level workers usually start at around $25/hour, while experienced electricians and specialists can earn $40–$50/hour, particularly in urban or high-demand regions. Self-employed electricians or those working with large contractors may also set higher hourly rates, giving them more earning potential.

In 2025, apprentice electricians typically earn $30,000–$40,000 per year, depending on location and employer. Apprentices in major cities may start on the higher end of the range, while those in smaller markets may start lower. Many apprenticeships also include benefits like health insurance and paid training, which increase the overall value of the compensation. As skills grow, apprentices transition to journeyman roles with significantly higher pay.

Yes. Residential electricians, who wire and service homes, generally earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually. Commercial electricians, who handle larger-scale projects like office buildings, factories, and retail spaces, typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 per year. The higher pay reflects the complexity, scale, and safety requirements of commercial projects.

Several factors influence how much electricians earn:

• Location – Higher wages in cities and states with strong construction demand.

• Experience – Apprentices earn the least, journeymen earn more, and master electricians earn the most.

• Specialization – Electricians in industrial, commercial, and renewable energy often earn more due to their advanced skills.

• Certifications & Licenses – Additional certifications boost credibility and pay rates.

Location plays a significant role in electrician pay. Urban areas with high construction activity, such as New York or San Francisco, often offer salaries 20–30% above the national average due to demand and cost of living. In contrast, rural regions tend to pay less but usually come with lower living expenses. State licensing requirements also make a difference; states with stricter regulations often pay higher wages to attract fully qualified electricians.

As of 2025, the average electrician’s salary in the United States is around $65,000 per year. This number can vary based on location, experience, and specialization. Electricians in large metropolitan areas or high-demand regions may earn $75,000–$80,000+ annually, while those in smaller towns or rural areas may see salaries closer to $55,000. Electricians with certifications in areas like renewable energy systems or industrial electrical work often command higher pay, reflecting the growing demand for sustainable and specialized skills.