How much do electricians make per hour?

The median hourly wage for electricians is $29.61 (BLS OES, May 2023). 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 — $61,590 vs $57,300 for HVAC (BLS 2023). Electricians also have faster projected growth (+11% vs +9%). 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 2025: How Much Do Electricians Make?

The median electrician salary is $61,590 per year ($29.61/hr) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023).

Median salary

$61,590

BLS OOH 2023

Top 10%

$103,000+

BLS OES 2023

Bottom 10%

$37,000

BLS OES 2023

Median hourly

$29.61

BLS OES 2023

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2023 data.

Electrician Salary by State

Top 10 highest-paying states:

State	Annual Mean Wage
Illinois	$91,720
New York	$88,460
Alaska	$85,340
Hawaii	$83,290
Oregon	$77,540
Washington	$76,380
California	$74,160
New Jersey	$72,890
Nevada	$70,210
Texas	$56,430

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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