Here’s How Much Money an Electrician Makes in These 5 U.S. States

Here’s How Much Money an Electrician Makes in These 5 U.S. States

With the growing use of electricity, there is always a demand for electricians. As such, the job outlook for electricians is strong since there is also a significant number of workers leaving the labor force due to retirement. 

In this role, you will be responsible for repairing, installing, and maintaining electrical systems in either residential homes or commercial buildings, depending on where you choose to work. Work may vary on a day-to-day basis based on the needs of clients. 

It is common for electricians to start their careers through apprenticeships, where they will develop vital skills and experience. You can also get started by enrolling in an electrician training course, where you will learn the basic skills necessary to become an electrician’s apprentice. In most states, you will need a license to practice as an electrician. 

Fortunately, the work that you put in to become a licensed electrician will not go to waste as the demand for electricians continues to remain steady. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of electricians is set to grow by 9% by 2030. 

Keep in mind, however, that the job prospect and income of electricians vary by state, so you may want to focus on states where becoming an electrician is the most profitable. Here are the states where electricians earn the most money: 

Illinois 

With 21,050 electricians employed in the state, Illinois also has a strong demand for electricians. According to the Illinois WorkNet Center, there are about 2,942 job openings for electricians every year throughout the state. 

Electricians in the state make more than any other state nationwide, earning an hourly mean wage of $39.97 or $83,140 per year. This is significantly higher compared to the national median of $28.87 per hour or $60,040 per year. 

In Illinois, local municipalities are responsible for determining the certification and licensing requirements of electricians. Although the specific requirements may vary across municipalities, many electrician job openings in the state require that you complete the necessary electrical courses in addition to having relevant on-the-job experience. Institutions like Roosevelt University offer comprehensive Residential Electrician training courses that you can enroll in to start your career as an electrician in Illinois. 

New York 

New York has one of the highest employment levels of electricians nationwide, with 39,760 electricians currently employed in the state. The employment per thousand jobs stands at 4.59. When it comes to pay, electricians in the state are the second-highest paid in the country, earning a mean hourly wage of $39.28 or $81,700 annually. 

Although New York does not have state licensing requirements, you may need a local license to practice as an electrician in some municipalities. Nevertheless, having the appropriate certification will give you leverage in gaining employment or attaining your license. Institutions like the State University of New York – Cobleskill offer open enrollment for a comprehensive Residential Electrician course. 

Oregon 

With only 9,530 electricians currently employed in the state, Oregon sees a lower employment rate compared to other states. However, the high pay level speaks for the actual demand in the state. Electricians in Oregon make a mean hourly wage of $39.04 or $81,200 annually. This makes it one of the top-paying states for electricians nationwide. 

To become a practicing electrician in the state, you need state licensing under the Building Codes Division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. There are several electrician’s licenses to choose from, each with unique prerequisites. Most of these licenses will ask that you undergo relevant apprenticeship to hone your skills. Portland Community College offers a comprehensive Residential Electrician course to prepare you for an apprenticeship. 

Alaska 

Being one of the least populated states in the U.S., Alaska also sees a lower employment rate across different professions. The state currently has 1,660 electricians employed, with an employment per thousand jobs of 5.62. Although the employment rate of electricians is much lower, that is not to say the state does not have a high demand for them. 

Alaska is one of the top paying states for electricians, which speaks volumes about how much people in the state value the profession. Electricians in Alaska make a mean wage of $38.45 per hour or $79,980 annually. 

To become an electrician in Alaska, you will need a license from the state’s Department of Labor and Workplace and Development. Before attaining your license, you will need to complete the necessary training and apprenticeship. Greenways Academy of Alaska offers a comprehensive Residential Electrician course to help you get started on your journey. 

New Jersey 

The state of New Jersey also sees steady demand for electricians, with 17,570 electricians currently working in the field. The demand is slated to grow over the next few years as the state continues to recover lost jobs and sees continued growth in employment. When it comes to pay, New Jersey ranks among the top paying states for electricians, with electricians making a mean hourly wage of $38.43 or $79,940 per year. 

If you plan on becoming an electrician in New Jersey, you will need a license from the state’s Department of Law and Public Safety. Additionally, you will need to have the necessary training and experience to attain your license. Rowan College South Jersey offers an excellent Residential Electrician course to prepare you for your electrician’s license. 

ed2go partners with 2,000+ schools and academic institutions across multiple states to help individuals achieve and exceed their career goals. Additionally, our classes are 100% online, which gives students the freedom to learn at their own pace. We even offer payment plans to give you even more flexibility to enroll in your desired course so you can start working towards achieving your career goals.  

Contact us below if you are ready to speak with an enrollment rep or have any questions regarding our online residential electrician certification training.