While it is true that some U.S.-based electricians can make $100,000 per year, it is not the standard for all electricians and will rarely occur in the early stages of the career. That’s why knowing best electrical courses in New York is important.
The average compensation for an electrician is generally better than many other trades and, as it relates to many trades, there is a greater amount of predictability in terms of how one progresses through a career as an electrician. However, to reach six figures as an electrician, a few factors need to align (e.g., where one lives, how long he/she has worked, what type of electrical specialty one works in, etc.) as well as how much work one wants to take on.
U.S. Average Compensation for Electricians
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average electrician in the United States typically makes between $60,000-$65,000 each year. Electricians just starting out may begin closer to $40,000 while experienced electricians may make significantly more. That’s why understanding your salary is important.
This average is important because it demonstrates that making $100,000 per year is not the rule rather the exception; it is located near the top of the pay scale.
Factors Which Contribute to Reaching Six Figures as an Electrician
Typically, electricians who earn six figures are either in one of the following situations, or both.
High Paying Locations
In locations such as California, New York, Washington, and Massachusetts, electricians are paid higher hourly wage rates. As well, in large metropolitan areas with consistent construction and infrastructure development projects, electricians are able to command even higher hourly wage rates. In many union roles, electricians can earn over $50 an hour based on their hourly rate.
Long Hours/Overtime
One of the quickest ways that electricians increase their earnings is by way of overtime. Typically, electricians work nights, weekends, and during emergencies, which pay time-and-a-half or double time. Electricians who work in hospitals, factories, or data centers regularly incur these types of hours.
Industrial/Commercial Work
Residential electricians typically earn less than electricians employed in commercial or industrial environments. Electricians who work with heavy machinery, automation systems, or high voltage equipment are typically compensated at a higher level due to the risks associated with working with such complex systems. In addition, electricians typically need to undergo additional training to perform such functions; however, the increased compensation also correlates to the risks involved.
Operating One’s Own Business
Electrical Contractors/Business Owners tend to have the greatest earning potential. Many self-employed electricians earn well above $100,000; this is particularly true after they establish a crew and focus on larger-scale projects. While the trade-off is responsibility, paperwork, and business risk, the earnings potential for electrical contractors/business owners are among the highest.
Time Frame
Most electricians do not earn six figures quickly according to Electrical Path. A general progression is as follows:
- Apprentice: $35,000 – $45,000
- Journeyman: $55,000 – $75,000
- Master electrician/Specialist: $75,000 – $100,000
- Electrical Contractor/Niche Expert: $100,000 – $150,000
Many times, it takes seven to ten years to attain the upper end of the compensation range, depending upon local licensing requirements and individual career choices.
Commonality of Earning Six Figures Among Electricians
No. While it is possible for an electrician to earn six figures, it is not the norm. Owning a company, or being highly experienced in niche matters can help.
Most electricians earn a stable middle class income, with good job security and a steady demand for services. For those who plan their careers accordingly, choose high paying geographic areas, and accept more challenging or specialized assignments, they are the individuals most likely to surpass the six-figure threshold.
Overall, becoming an electrician is still a wise choice for individuals looking for stability, hands-on work, and long term earning potential, especially in the age of AI.
