The Top 5 States with the Highest Paid Electricians

Many factors influence where you decide to settle down. There’s everything from the quality of the schools to outdoor activities to the cost of living. Oh, and potential income. 

For electricians, that last one has the potential to be huge. What you make can vary considerably based on the state you live in. 

In this article, we’ll share how much electricians get paid on average in the top 5 paying states. Of course, before you make any plans to move, you’ll want to think about other considerations—like the cost of living. But income is still a big factor. 

Let’s get started. 

How Much Do Electricians Get Paid? 

Electrical systems can be dangerous, requiring specific skills and training. 

Electricians bring home a median of $56,900, whereas the average full-time worker earns $54,132. Electricians in the top earning 25% make $75,380, and the lowest-paid 25% make $42,790. 

According to Indeed, the average base wage of an electrician is $25.97 per hour. 

So, what determines whether an electrician earns the lower or upper end of the occupation’s pay scale? One influencing factor is experience.

The more experience an electrician has, the more money they can earn. (Pretty straightforward earning logic.)

Whether an electrician is a Master Electrician will also influence how much they earn.

A Master Electrician is the highest level of certification an electrician can achieve. Requirements differ between states, but the general standard is 4,000 hours of electrical work. A licensing exam is also required. This tests knowledge and understanding of the National Electrical Code.

Finally, where the electrician lives and operates may impact their income. But which states have the highest-paid electricians?

Which States Have the Highest-Paid Electricians? 

Here is a list of the 5 states where electricians take home the highest annual income. (All the stats in the sections below have been pulled from U.S. News & World Report.)

1. Illinois

In Illinois, electricians earn an average salary of $81,650.

A hub of Fortune 500 companies, Illinois is home to a fast-growing economy. This means electricians and their families are unlikely to run into employment problems. 

Wherever an electrician chooses to settle, they won’t be far from the state’s capital. Chicago is a mecca for culture, arts, and excellent food.

2. New York

In New York, electricians earn an average of $81,340—well above the country’s average.

New York is a dynamic state offering residents a fantastic quality of life. Some may choose to live in or near New York City, one of the most iconic and well-loved destinations in the world.

Others may prefer regional areas, where natural beauty abounds.

3. Hawaii

In Hawaii, electricians earn a median of $79,280.

Sun, sand, and surf—Hawaii is one of the most beautiful areas of the U.S., if not the world. There are few better options for those who crave a warm climate year-round.

The enviable weather must also be good for human health! Hawaii’s residents boast the longest average life expectancy in the nation.

4. District of Columbia

In the District of Columbia, electricians earn an average of $79,030.

However, for electricians with families it’s worth noting that the District of Columbia may not be the best option. The public schools in DC don’t rank well when compared nationally.

The quality of education aside, there are a lot of great things about living in DC. For those who want easy, quick access to several other major cities in the northeast, DC is a solid choice.

5. Oregon

In Oregon, electricians earn an average of $76,040.

Oregon boasts charming towns, clean cities, and unbeatable hiking and biking trails. Oregon is an attractive northern state for people from all walks of life.

However, the cost of living in Oregon is above the national average. While an electrician can make more here, that salary won’t go quite as far is it would in other states.

Which Is Your Top Pick? 

While money isn’t the only thing to consider when deciding where you want to live and work, it’s important. As an electrician, your location makes a big difference. 

If you’re considering a move in the next 12 months, keep these stats in mind.