How Much to Pay Electricians in 2026: A Complete Guide
3
min read
Seth Brown
Table of Contents
Are you an electrical contractor wondering about competitive wages for electricians in 2026? This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on electrician salaries, helping you attract and retain top talent while managing your labor costs effectively.
Average Electrician Salaries in 2026
Websites that actively host new job listings for electricians have shared their data on the average electrician salary in the United States for 2026:
- $61,391 per year or $29.51 per hour (ZipRecruiter)
- $66,788 per year or $33.80 per hour (Talent.com)
- $57,470 per year or $27.63 per hour (Workiz.com)
While these figures provide a general benchmark, it's important to note that electrician salaries can range widely based on several factors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electricians was $62,350 in May 2024. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,430, while the top 10% of earners brought in more than $106,030 annually.
The Growing Demand for Electricians
The electrical industry is still growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 81,000 openings for electricians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. As demand for skilled electricians rises, it's beneficial for electrical specialty contractors to know how much electricians are making today so that they can offer competitive wages to attract and retain skilled workers. Electricians will likely compare your offer to other contractors, so paying competitive wages helps you secure the top talent that's out there.
A clear understanding of the market rate for electrician salaries also helps you accurately budget for labor costs when bidding on projects and managing your electrical business' finances. This allows you to price jobs appropriately while staying profitable.
Future Salary Trends for Electricians
The electrical industry is trending upwards and has seen steady growth in recent years:
- The median annual wage for electricians was $62,350 in May 2024
- Total employment reached 818,700 electricians nationwide in 2024
- Approximately 81,000 job openings for electricians are projected each year over the next decade
Factors That Influence Electrician Pay
1. Experience Level
Electrician earnings typically increase with experience:
- Entry-level (0-1 year): $16.46 per hour
- Early career (1-4 years): $20.54 per hour
- Mid-career (5-10 years): $60,000 to $70,000 per year
- Experienced (10+ years): $70,000 to $80,000+ per year
For specific information on journeyman electrician pay expectations, check out our detailed guide.
2. Geographic Location
Salaries can vary significantly by location:
- San Francisco, CA: $102,230 per year
- Memphis, TN: $56,700 per year
Metropolitan areas typically offer higher pay rates due to increased living costs. Learn more about electrician pay rates in Texas.
3. Specialization and Industry Sector
Electricians in specific industries or specializations often command higher salaries:
- Residential construction: $55,000 per year
- Power generation: $76,000 per year
- Information industry: $81,690 per year
4. Certifications and Licenses
Certified electricians earn an average of $63,000 per year, compared to $59,000 for non-certified electricians. Many states require electricians to hold a license, which can impact how much they make.
Future Salary Trends for Electricians
The electrical industry is trending upwards and has seen steady growth in recent years:
- Salaries have increased by an average of 36.59% nationwide since 2004
- The median annual wage for electricians was $61,590 in May 2023.
- Approximately 73,500 job openings for electricians are projected each year over the next decade
Electrician Bonuses and Benefits
When deciding on what to set wages for your electricians, it's important to consider the full compensation package, which may include:
- Overtime pay
- Bonuses and profit-sharing
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Training and career development opportunities
Highlighting these benefits in your job listings can make your offers more attractive to top-tier electrical talent. Learn how to write effective electrician job posts.
Tips for Negotiating Electrician Pay
- Be transparent about your pay structure and rationale
- Offer performance-based rewards tied to project completion
- Focus on the total compensation package, not just hourly rates
- Stay informed about market rates in your area
Knowing the average pay for electricians is crucial for electrical contractors. It allows you to offer competitive wages, attracting skilled workers and keeping them on your team. This knowledge also helps you budget accurately for labor costs when bidding on jobs, ensuring you price projects correctly while maintaining profits. Fair pay leads to satisfied employees who are more likely to stick around, reducing turnover costs. Understanding market rates allows you to balance fair compensation with business success, resulting in a mutually beneficial situation for both you and your electricians.
FAQs
What is the average salary for apprentice electricians in 2026?
Entry-level electricians with less than one year of experience can expect to earn around $18 per hour.
Which electrician specialization pays the highest?
Electricians working in the information industry and power generation sector tend to earn higher salaries, with averages around $81,690 and $76,000 per year, respectively.
How does location affect electrician salaries?
Electricians who work in places with high cost of living, like San Francisco, make a lot more than those who work in places with lower cost of living.
Are electricians in high demand in 2026?
Yes, the electrician job market is projected to grow 6% between 2022 and 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
How can electricians increase their earning potential?
To make more money as an electrician, you can get more experience, more certifications, specialize in areas that are in high demand, and think about joining a union.