Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. National averages, state-by-state breakdown, specialty premiums, and top-paying metros in 2026.
Annual salary ranges for electricians working in construction. Ranges reflect base wage before overtime, benefits, or per-diem.
| Experience Level | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (Yrs 1–2) | $42K | $58K | $50K |
| Apprentice (Yrs 3–4) | $55K | $70K | $63K |
| Journeyman | $72K | $98K | $85K |
| Master Electrician | $95K | $135K | $115K |
| Foreman / Lead | $105K | $155K | $130K |
Annual salary ranges by state for experienced journeyman-level electricians. High-cost metro areas within each state often earn 10–25% above state average.
| State | Low | High | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $97K | $123K | $110K |
| Texas | $79K | $113K | $96K |
| Florida | $76K | $108K | $92K |
| New York | $94K | $123K | $108K |
| Pennsylvania | $78K | $110K | $94K |
| Illinois | $83K | $116K | $99K |
| Ohio | $73K | $106K | $90K |
| Georgia | $76K | $108K | $92K |
| North Carolina | $76K | $108K | $92K |
| Michigan | $75K | $106K | $90K |
| New Jersey | $90K | $120K | $105K |
| Virginia | $92K | $127K | $110K |
| Washington | $92K | $120K | $106K |
| Arizona | $81K | $116K | $98K |
| Colorado | $83K | $116K | $99K |
| Massachusetts | $92K | $120K | $106K |
| Tennessee | $73K | $104K | $89K |
| Missouri | $72K | $103K | $87K |
| Maryland | $88K | $118K | $103K |
| Minnesota | $79K | $112K | $95K |
The certifications and licenses most valued by employers and that correlate with the highest pay premiums for electricians.
These metros consistently offer above-national-average pay due to construction volume, cost of living adjustments, and specialized demand.
Typical premium vs. national average in these markets: +15% to +45% depending on specialization and certifications.
What does a electrician make?
In the United States, electricians earn a journeyman-level average of $85K–$98K per year in 2026, with entry-level apprentices starting at $42K–$58K. Foremen and master-level electricians earn $105K–$155K. Data compiled from Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2025 and RSMeans 2026.