How much do electricians make per hour?

The median hourly wage for electricians is $30.38 (BLS OEWS, May 2025). Apprentices earn $18–$25/hr. Journeyman electricians earn $28–$45/hr. Union master electricians earn $50–$70+/hr.

Do electricians make six figures?

Many do. Union journeyman electricians in high-cost states earn $90,000–$110,000. Master electricians and electrical contractors regularly earn $100,000–$200,000+.

Which pays more: electrician or HVAC?

Electricians earn more at the median — $63,190 vs $61,010 for HVAC technicians (BLS OEWS, May 2025). HVAC has slightly faster projected growth (+11% vs +9% for electricians, 2025–35). Both are strong career choices.

How long does it take to become a journeyman electrician?

Through an IBEW apprenticeship, it takes 4–5 years. You then apply for your Journeyman Electrician license through your state's electrical board. Master Electrician typically requires 2 more years as a journeyman.

Electrician Salary in 2026: How Much Do Electricians Make?

The median electrician salary is $63,190 per year ($30.38/hr) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025).

Median salary

$63,190

BLS OEWS May 2025

Top 10%

$108,510+

BLS OEWS May 2025

Bottom 10%

$42,640

BLS OEWS May 2025

Median hourly

$30.38

BLS OEWS May 2025

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2025 data.

Electrician Salary by State

Top 10 highest-paying states:

State	Median Annual Wage
Oregon	$101,310
Illinois	$99,560
Hawaii	$96,460
Washington	$95,220
Alaska	$89,440
Massachusetts	$79,420
New York	$78,750
Minnesota	$78,160
Connecticut	$77,540
New Jersey	$77,250

Electrician Salary by Specialty

Specialty	Salary Range
Master Electrician	$80,000–$120,000+
Industrial Electrician	$70,000–$100,000
Electrical Contractor (own business)	$90,000–$200,000+
Solar Electrician (PV Installer)	$55,000–$80,000
Journeyman Electrician (union)	$65,000–$90,000
Residential Electrician	$50,000–$70,000
Apprentice Electrician	$35,000–$50,000

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