If you’re thinking about joining the electrical trade, one of the first questions you’ll ask is, “How much do electricians actually make?”
The good news: electricians in the U.S. earn solid, steady pay — and income potential grows significantly with experience, specialization, and licensing.
Here’s what you can expect at each stage of your career.
💡 Average Electrician Salary in the U.S.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average electrician salary in 2024 was around $63,000 per year, or roughly $30 per hour.
However, this number varies widely depending on your experience, location, and job type.
| Level | Average Annual Pay | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | $35,000–$45,000 | Paid training under supervision |
| Journeyman | $55,000–$70,000 | Fully licensed, works independently |
| Master Electrician | $75,000–$100,000+ | Can manage teams, pull permits, or run a business |
💰 Top-Paying States for Electricians
Wages vary by region, often depending on demand, union presence, and cost of living. As of 2024, some of the highest-paying U.S. states include:
- Hawaii: ~$95,000
- Illinois: ~$85,000
- New York: ~$83,000
- California: ~$80,000
- Washington: ~$78,000
Rural areas and southern states typically pay less but may offer lower living costs and strong job stability.
🏭 Salary by Industry or Specialization
Not all electricians do the same work — and specialization often drives pay differences.
| Specialization | Average Pay Range | Typical Work Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Electrician | $45,000–$65,000 | Homes, apartments, new builds |
| Commercial Electrician | $55,000–$75,000 | Offices, retail, public buildings |
| Industrial Electrician | $65,000–$90,000 | Factories, plants, manufacturing |
| Maintenance Electrician | $50,000–$70,000 | Facilities and equipment upkeep |
👉 Want to explore specialized work? See what an industrial electrician does and how it differs from other paths.
📈 Factors That Affect Electrician Pay
Several key factors influence how much you’ll make:
- Experience & skill level: Senior electricians earn more for efficiency and expertise.
- Location: Urban and union-heavy regions usually offer higher wages.
- Union membership: Union electricians often receive stronger benefits and pay scales.
- Overtime availability: Many electricians increase income with night or emergency work.
- Licensing level: Master electricians can charge higher rates and run their own businesses.
⚡ How to Increase Your Electrician Salary
If you want to boost your income as an electrician:
- Gain experience across different projects and voltage systems.
- Earn a master electrician license for advanced work and leadership roles.
- Get specialized certifications (solar, automation, or high-voltage systems).
- Build a reputation for reliability — word-of-mouth drives better-paying contracts.
👉 Learn what it takes to reach that level in our guide on how to become an electrician.
Final Thoughts
Electricians earn solid, growing incomes — especially as the U.S. electrical and construction industries expand with green energy and infrastructure demand.
Whether you’re just starting as an apprentice or aiming to become a master electrician, this trade offers both stability and opportunity for those willing to learn and work hard.
