Research of wages by industry indicates that electrician salaries compare favorably with other skilled trades, such as carpenters, construction workers, cost estimators and plumbers. For example, entry-level electricians tend to make more than plumbers and entry-level HVAC technicians.           

As of April 1, 2025, the reported average salary for an electrician in the United States spans a range from $50,930 to $88.620. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024 median pay for U.S. electrical workers was $62,350 per year, or $29.98 per hour. This, of course, varies depending on state and city, experience and specific position. Nevertheless, it’s up slightly from averages two years ago, which ranged from $48,100 to $80,260.  

Job level, experience and expertise are important factors in determining salary. Entry-level wages generally start at $35,000 to $45,000 annually, or $15 to $20 per hour, reflecting on-the-job training under licensed electricians. Wages tend to go up by 20% to 30% once the technician reaches an intermediate level, although once licensed, an electrician should expect to see slower increases.

There are other salary levels, such as: 

• Apprentice electricians in training commonly earn from $30,000 to $40,000 annually.
• Journey-level electricians who are fully licensed and able to work independently typically make $50,000 to $70,000 annually.
• Electricians who specialize in certain fields, such as renewable energy, data cabling or industrial systems, generally earn $80,000 annually.
• Master electricians who are highly experienced can earn more than $100,000, especially if they specialize in high-demand fields.
  

Similarly, education and certifications play a role in the salary an electrician is paid. The minimum education level required to become an electrician is a high school diploma or GED. However, some certifications and specialized training can increase an electrician’s pay scale. For example, an OSHA safety certification verifying the technician is familiar with workplace safety standards can boost a salary by $2,000 to $5,000.

Credentials in specialized fields such as solar panel or electric vehicle charger installation should not only increase wages, but also expand job opportunities. A master electrician certification that qualifies a person to take on supervisory roles and complex jobs could open up management positions or business-owning opportunities.

Another factor influencing salary rates is location. Bigger cities typically see higher salaries for electricians. Some of the highest-paying states for electricians include California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Texas and Washington, as well as Washington, D.C.—although it’s important to figure in the cost of living in these areas when comparing salaries. Many IBEW locals share wage information for their region on their websites.

Supply and demand can affect wages. According to the BLS, the electrical industry is expected to add 49,200 jobs by 2032. To attract the most qualified candidates, employers can offer good benefits, provide career development opportunities to learn and earn certifications, and offer performance-based bonuses or incentives. To make themselves eligible for better jobs at higher salaries, electricians should consider specialization and acquiring certifications and additional training.