Do Electricians Make Good Money?
If you’re thinking about a career in the trades, you’ve probably asked yourself: Do electricians make good money? The short answer is yes—electricians are in high demand, and their pay reflects the value of their skills. Beyond a steady paycheck, the trade also offers strong career growth, hands-on experience, and the satisfaction of keeping homes, businesses, and industries running.
How Much Money Do They Make?
The amount of money one earns depends on factors like location, experience, and certifications. On average, electricians in the U.S. earn between $50,000 and $80,000 per year, with opportunities to earn more through overtime and specialized skills.
One of the biggest advantages is the ability to start earning relatively quickly compared to careers that require a four-year degree. Entry-level electricians begin as apprentices, and with experience, they move up to become a journeyman or even a master —each step offering higher pay and more responsibilities.
Apprenticeship and Journeyman Requirements
To become a licensed electrician, candidates typically start in an apprenticeship program. This combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Common requirements for entry-level positions include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic math and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to complete several years of training
Once the apprenticeship is complete, electricians can take the test to become a journeyman. Journeymen are fully licensed to work independently, take on more complex projects, and earn more money than apprentices. From there, electricians can continue advancing toward master-level certification, opening doors to leadership roles or running their own business.
Why Choose an Electrical Career?
Besides solid money potential, becoming an electrician comes with other benefits:
- Job Security: Demand for skilled electricians continues to grow.
- Variety of Work: From residential wiring to large industrial projects, no two jobs are the same.
- Path to Advancement: Moving from apprentice to journeyman and beyond provides clear steps for career growth.
- Hands-On Impact: Electricians literally keep the lights on—your work has a visible and essential outcome.
Do Electricians Really Make Good Money?
Yes—this career not only pays well but also provides stability, benefits, and room for advancement. With clear requirements for training and licensing, electricians can build a career that’s both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.
Start Your Career with NCW
Interested in becoming an electrician? Whether you’re just starting your apprenticeship or ready to advance into a journeyman role, NCW can help. Our recruiters connect candidates with opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and engineering across the nation.
👉 Reach out to NCW today to explore open construction jobs and start building your future.