They are responsible for ensuring that buildings have safe and reliable electrical systems that meet code requirements.
In California, electricians are in high demand due to the state’s growing population and the need for updated electrical infrastructure. The salary of an electrician in California can vary based on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and industry.
In this article, we will explore how much electricians make in California and what factors affect their salary. We will also discuss the job outlook for electricians in California and provide tips for those interested in pursuing a career in this field.
Whether you are a seasoned electrician or just starting your career, this article will provide valuable insights into the salary and job prospects for electricians in California.
Electrician Career In California
Job Outlook for Electricians in California
In California specifically, the employment of electricians is expected to grow by 11.8 percent over the same period, which is well above the national average. This growth is driven by several factors, including new construction projects, the need to upgrade existing electrical systems, and the increasing demand for renewable energy sources [1].
Salary for Electricians in California
Electricians in California earn some of the highest salaries in the country. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for electricians in California was $73,380 as of May 2022, which is significantly higher than the national median of $56,180. However, it’s important to note that salaries can vary based on several factors, including experience, certification, location, and industry. For example, electricians who work in the construction industry tend to earn more than those who work in maintenance and repair.
Education and Training Requirements for Electricians in California
To become an electrician in California, you must complete a formal apprenticeship program or a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs typically last four to five years and include at least 144 hours of classroom instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training each year. You can find apprenticeship programs through trade organizations, such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), or through community colleges and vocational schools.
In addition to completing an apprenticeship program, you must also obtain a state-issued license to work as an electrician in California. To obtain a license, you must pass a written exam and provide proof of at least four years of journey-level experience or two years of experience and 240 hours of classroom instruction.
How To Become An Electrician In California?
Becoming an electrician in California involves completing a combination of education, training, and certification requirements. Here are the steps to become an electrician in California:
- Meet the minimum age and education requirements: To become an electrician in California, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent;
- Complete an electrician apprenticeship: The most common way to become an electrician in California is by completing an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships typically last 4-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. You can find apprenticeship programs through the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards or through a union, such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW);
- Complete a vocational or technical school program: You can also become an electrician by completing a vocational or technical school program. These programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and provide a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training;
- Obtain a state electrical certification: In California, you must have a state electrical certification to work as an electrician. There are several different types of certifications available, including general electrician, residential electrician, and non-residential lighting technician. To obtain a certification, you must pass an exam administered by the California Department of Industrial Relations;
- Maintain your certification: To maintain your certification, you must complete continuing education requirements and renew your certification every few years;
- Consider additional certifications: Once you have obtained your state certification, you may want to consider obtaining additional certifications in areas such as renewable energy or industrial controls to increase your job prospects and earning potential [2];
Types Of Electrician Certifications In California
In California, there are several types of electrician certifications available, each with its own set of requirements and areas of expertise.
Here are the most common types of electrician certifications in California:
- General electrician certification: A general electrician certification allows you to work on a wide range of electrical systems, including residential, commercial, and industrial systems;
- Residential electrician certification: A residential electrician certification allows you to work on electrical systems in single-family homes and multi-family dwellings up to three stories;
- Non-residential lighting technician certification: A non-residential lighting technician certification allows you to work on electrical systems for lighting in commercial and industrial buildings;
- Voice data video technician certification: A voice data video technician certification allows you to work on low-voltage systems, such as telephone and data networks, security systems, and audiovisual systems;
- Fire/life safety technician certification: A fire/life safety technician certification allows you to install and maintain fire alarms, smoke detectors, and other life safety systems;
To obtain a certification, you must meet certain requirements, such as completing a certain number of hours of training and passing an exam. Additionally, some certifications may require you to have a certain amount of experience or specialize in a particular area of electrical work.
Average Electrician’s Salary By Experience And Certification State
Entry Level (0-2 Years)
The average salary for an entry-level electrician with 0-2 years of experience in California is $41,000 to $56,000 per year. Entry-level electricians typically have completed their education and apprenticeship requirements and are just starting their careers. They may work under the supervision of more experienced electricians and focus on tasks such as wiring and installing electrical systems.
Intermediate Level (2-4 Years)
The average salary for an intermediate-level electrician with 2-4 years of experience in California is $55,000 to $74,000 per year. Intermediate-level electricians have gained more experience and may work on more complex electrical systems. They may also supervise entry-level electricians and work more independently.
Senior Level (4-7 Years)
The average salary for a senior-level electrician with 4-7 years of experience in California is $67,000 to $92,000 per year. Senior-level electricians have gained significant experience and may specialize in a particular area of electrical work, such as commercial or industrial systems. They may also supervise intermediate-level and entry-level electricians and be responsible for project management.
Supervisor Level (7+ Years)
The average salary for a supervisor-level electrician with 7+ years of experience in California is $90,000 to $125,000 per year. Supervisor-level electricians have extensive experience and may be responsible for overseeing multiple projects and teams of electricians. They may also have advanced certifications and specialize in a particular area of electrical work, such as renewable energy or industrial controls.
Certification can also impact an electrician’s salary. Electricians with specialized certifications, such as non-residential lighting technician or voice data video technicians, may earn higher salaries than those without certifications. Additionally, electricians with a master electrician certification may earn higher salaries than those with a general electrician certification [3].
Does Experience Matter For The Salary Of An Electrician?
The short answer to this question is yes, experience does matter for the salary of an electrician. Like in many industries, the more experience an electrician has, the higher their salary is likely to be. This is because experienced electricians have a greater level of knowledge, skills, and expertise than those who are just starting out. They are also able to handle more complex and challenging electrical work, which can command a higher rate of pay.
In addition to experience, other factors that can impact an electrician’s salary include their education and certifications, the location of their work, and the specific type of work they are performing. However, experience is one of the most significant factors, and it is often the one that employers will look at first when determining an electrician’s salary.
What Is The Average Salary Of An Electrician In The U.S.?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for electricians in the United States was $56,900 as of May 2021. This means that half of all electricians earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10 percent of electricians earned less than $33,420 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $97,080 per year.
It’s worth noting that the average salary for electricians can vary depending on a variety of factors, including location, industry, and level of experience. Electricians who work in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas, for example. Additionally, electricians who specialize in certain types of work, such as industrial or commercial electrical work, may earn higher salaries than those who work in residential settings.
Electrician Salary By State 2023
To get a better understanding of how location impacts an electrician’s salary, let’s take a closer look at the average salaries for electricians by state. The following data is based on BLS data from May 2022 [4]:
- Alabama: $47,560;
- Alaska: $76,220;
- Arizona: $51,020;
- Arkansas: $48,580;
- California: $73,960;
- Colorado: $60,780;
- Connecticut: $66,320;
- Delaware: $67,310;
- District of Columbia: $84,940;
- Florida: $46,940;
- Georgia: $54,350;
- Hawaii: $77,090;
- Idaho: $53,710;
- Illinois: $71,520;
- Indiana: $56,760;
- Iowa: $56,930;
- Kansas: $53,040;
- Kentucky: $51,190;
- Louisiana: $50,880;
- Maine: $60,150;
- Maryland: $70,310;
- Massachusetts: $67,270;
- Michigan: $64,550;
- Minnesota: $66,490;
- Mississippi: $46,340;
- Missouri: $56,740;
- Montana: $58,590;
- Nebraska: $57,190;
- Nevada: $60,470;
- New Hampshire: $63,610;
- New Jersey: $71,140;
- New Mexico: $47,270;
- New York: $77,270;
- North Carolina: $49,080;
- North Dakota: $61,080;
- Ohio: $60,070;
- Oklahoma: $47,830;
- Oregon: $69,620;
- Pennsylvania: $63,290;
- Rhode Island: $62,820;
- South Carolina: $49,710;
- South Dakota: $50,760;
- Tennessee: $50,610;
- Texas: $56,860;
- Utah: $54,930;
- Vermont: $61,060;
- Virginia: $60,820;
- Washington: $74,170;
- West Virginia: $50,760;
- Wisconsin: $59,390;
- Wyoming: $62,320;
As we can see from this data, the average salary for electricians can vary widely by state. For example, electricians in Alaska and Hawaii have some of the highest average salaries in the country, while those in states like Mississippi and Florida have some of the lowest. This is due to a variety of factors, including the cost of living in each state, the demand for electricians in that area, and the specific industries that require electrical work.
Average Electrician Salary In California By Year
The state of California has one of the highest costs of living in the country, which is reflected in the salaries for many occupations, including electricians. However, California is also known for having a thriving construction industry, which means that there are many job opportunities for electricians in the state.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for electricians in California was $69,320 as of May 2021. This is significantly higher than the national average salary for electricians, which is $60,370. In fact, California is one of the top-paying states for electricians in the country.
When looking at the average electrician salary in California by year, we can see that salaries have been steadily increasing over time.
According to the BLS, the average annual salary for electricians in California was $55,540 in 2010. By 2015, the average annual salary had increased to $64,940. And as of May 2022, the average annual salary for electricians in California was $69,320.
What Are the Top 10 Highest Paying Cities For Electrician Jobs In California?
While the average electrician salary in California is high, salaries can vary widely depending on location.
Here are the top 10 highest-paying cities for electrician jobs in California, based on data from the BLS:
- San Francisco-Redwood City-South San Francisco: $96,970;
- San Rafael: $93,720;
- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara: $92,610;
- Oakland-Hayward-Berkeley: $89,560;
- Santa Cruz-Watsonville: $88,430;
- Napa: $86,890;
- Vallejo-Fairfield: $86,570;
- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara: $84,080;
- Santa Rosa: $82,900;
- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale: $82,700;
As we can see, electricians in the San Francisco Bay Area tend to earn the highest salaries, with the top three cities on the list all located in that region. However, other parts of the state also offer high-paying job opportunities for electricians [5].
What Are the Top 5 Best Paying Related Electrician Jobs In California?
In addition to traditional electrician jobs, there are also a number of related occupations that require electrical expertise and offer high salaries.
Here are the top five best-paying related electrician jobs in California, based on data from the BLS:
- Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers: $123,230;
- Electrical Engineers: $117,710;
- Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers: $108,150;
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer: $105,440;
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment: $81,400;
Salaries For Residential Electricians Throughout California
Residential electricians are skilled professionals who specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in residential buildings. Their work involves dealing with wiring, lighting, outlets, and electrical appliances in homes and apartments. In California, the demand for residential electricians is high, and their salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and location.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for residential electricians in California is $63,110, which is higher than the national average of $60,370. The BLS also reports that the top 10% of residential electricians in California earn more than $89,580 annually. However, the salaries for residential electricians can vary significantly based on the region in which they work.
For example, in San Francisco, the average annual salary for a residential electrician is $80,270, which is much higher than the state average. In Los Angeles, the average salary for a residential electrician is $66,200, which is slightly higher than the state average. However, in less populated regions such as Humboldt County, the average salary for a residential electrician is $53,580, which is lower than the state average.
Overall, residential electricians can earn a good income in California, with opportunities for higher salaries in major cities and regions with high demand for their services [6].
Salaries For Specialty Electricians In California’s Major Cities
In California’s major cities, specialty electricians can earn significant salaries, but the exact amount can vary based on the area of expertise and experience.
In San Francisco, specialty electricians earn an average of $97,660 annually, which is the highest in the state. In Los Angeles, specialty electricians earn an average of $80,430 annually, while in San Diego, they earn an average of $78,610. In Sacramento, the average salary for a specialty electrician is $73,550.
The salaries for specialty electricians can vary based on their area of expertise. For example, electricians specializing in renewable energy systems can earn more in California than those specializing in other areas. According to PayScale, a renewable energy specialist in California can earn an average of $74,000 annually.
Overall, specialty electricians can earn significantly more than general residential or commercial electricians in California, with opportunities for higher salaries in major cities and regions with high demand for their specialized services.
Salaries For Electrician Apprentices In California’s Major Cities
Electrician apprentices are individuals who are in the process of learning the electrical trade under the guidance of experienced electricians. In California, electrician apprenticeships are available through unions, electrical contractors, and vocational schools. While the salaries for electrician apprentices are lower than for experienced electricians, they can still earn a decent income and gain valuable experience in the field.
According to the BLS, the average hourly wage for electrician apprentices in California is $21.52, which is higher than the national average of $16.94. In major cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, the hourly wage for electrician apprentices is slightly higher than the state average, at $23.99 and $22.58, respectively.
As electrician apprentices gain experience and progress through their apprenticeships, their salaries can increase significantly. According to the BLS, electrician apprentices in California can expect to earn around $50,000 annually once they complete their apprenticeships and become licensed electricians.
Union Electricians’ Salaries In California
Union electricians are members of labor organizations that negotiate wages and benefits on their behalf. Union electricians in California earn an average of $78,000 to $108,000 per year, depending on their experience level and certification status. The salary range for union electricians in California is among the highest in the country, reflecting the state’s high cost of living and strong union presence.
Union electricians’ salaries are typically higher than those of non-union electricians due to the collective bargaining power of their unions. Union electricians may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation days. However, becoming a union electrician can be challenging, as many unions require apprenticeship training and may have strict requirements for membership [7].
Self-Employed Electrician Salaries In California
Self-employed electricians, also known as independent contractors, set their own rates and work independently of any union or employer. Self-employed electricians’ salaries in California can vary widely depending on their experience level, industry, and location. On average, self-employed electricians in California earn around $50,000 to $90,000 per year.
Self-employed electricians must account for their own expenses, including tools, supplies, and insurance, which can affect their earnings. They may also have to compete with other self-employed electricians and larger electrical contracting firms for work.
Average Electrician Pay By Industry In California
Electricians work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation. The industry in which an electrician works can impact their salary.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians working in the following industries earn the highest average salaries in California:
- Electric power generation, transmission, and distribution: $98,570 per year;
- Natural gas distribution: $94,780 per year;
- Management of companies and enterprises: $88,720 per year;
- Local government: $82,560 per year;
- Nonresidential building construction: $81,430 per year;
- Real Electrician Salaries Around California;
Electrician salaries in California can vary significantly depending on the region. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians in the San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward area earn the highest average salaries in the state, at $96,130 per year. Electricians in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim area earn an average of $75,240 per year, while those in the San Diego-Carlsbad area earn an average of $70,670 per year.
Electrician salaries may also vary depending on the cost of living in a particular region. For example, electricians working in San Francisco may earn more than those working in a rural area with a lower cost of living.
How Can Electricians Make More Money: Tips
- Get Certified: As we mentioned earlier, certification is one of the most important factors that can determine an electrician’s salary. The more certifications you have, the higher your earning potential. Consider obtaining certifications in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and lighting;
- Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Some industries and areas of expertise are in higher demand than others, and electricians who specialize in these areas can command higher salaries. For example, electricians who specialize in industrial automation or home automation systems can earn significantly more than those who focus on residential wiring;
- Expand Your Services: While many electricians focus on traditional wiring and electrical work, expanding your services to include areas such as home automation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy can open up new opportunities and increase your earning potential;
- Build Your Reputation: Building a strong reputation as a reliable and skilled electrician can lead to more job opportunities and higher-paying clients. Consider building a portfolio of your work and asking satisfied customers for referrals or testimonials;
- Consider Self-Employment: While working for a union or electrical contractor can provide steady work and benefits, self-employment can offer more flexibility and the potential for higher earnings. As a self-employed electrician, you can set your own rates, take on more clients, and specialize in areas that interest you [8];
FAQ
1. How much tax will you have to pay as a union electrician in California?
The amount of tax that a union electrician in California will have to pay depends on their income level and filing status. California has a progressive income tax system, which means that higher earners pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes.
As of 2022, the tax rates for single filers range from 1% to 12.3%, while the tax rates for married couples filing jointly range from 1% to 12.3%. Additionally, union electricians may be subject to other taxes, such as Social Security and Medicare taxes, which are based on a percentage of their income [9].
2. How long does it take to become an electrician?
For example, completing an apprenticeship program can take four to five years, while completing a vocational school program can take anywhere from a few months to two years. Additionally, some electricians may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, which typically takes four years to complete.
3. How much does an electrician make?
The salary of an electrician can vary based on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for electricians in the United States was $56,180 as of May 2022. However, electricians in California typically earn higher salaries than the national average. The median annual salary for electricians in California was $73,380 as of May 2022, according to the BLS.
4. How much does a master electrician make?
Master electricians typically earn higher salaries than journey-level electricians. According to PayScale, the average salary for a master electrician in California is $83,000 per year as of April 2021.
5. Do electricians get paid well?
Electricians can earn competitive salaries, especially those with experience and certification. According to the BLS, electricians in the United States earned a median annual salary of $56,180 as of May 2020. However, electricians in California typically earn higher salaries than the national average. The median annual salary for electricians in California was $73,380 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.
6. How much does a union electrician in Sacramento, CA make?
The salary of a union electrician in Sacramento, CA can vary based on several factors, such as experience, certification, and industry. According to PayScale, the average hourly wage for a union electrician in Sacramento is $34.38 as of April 2021.
7. What is the salary range for an electrician in California?
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for electricians in California was $73,380 as of May 2022. However, the salary range for electricians in California can vary based on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and industry. Electricians who work in the construction industry, for example, tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in maintenance and repair.
8. Are electricians in demand in California?
Yes, electricians are in demand in California due to the state’s growing population and the need for updated electrical infrastructure. According to the BLS, the employment of electricians in California is projected to grow by 11.8% from 2020 to 2030, which is well above the national average.
9. How many electricians are needed in California?
The number of electricians needed in California can vary based on several factors, such as population growth, construction activity, and the need for upgrades to existing electrical systems.
According to the California Employment Development Department, there were approximately 67,900 electricians employed in the state as of 2022.
Additionally, the BLS projects that there will be a need for an additional 10,100 electricians in California from 2020 to 2030 to meet the demand for new construction and infrastructure upgrades.
10. How much is a teacher’s salary in California?
The salary of a teacher in California can vary depending on several factors, such as education level, years of experience, and location. According to the California Department of Education, the average salary for a public school teacher in California was $85,889 as of the 2019-2020 school year. However, salaries can vary widely depending on the school district and the teacher’s specific qualifications [10].
11. How much does a CA electrician apprenticeship pay?
The pay for a California electrician apprenticeship can vary depending on the program and the location. The California Division of Apprenticeship Standards sets minimum wage rates for apprenticeship programs in the state, which vary based on the industry and the apprenticeship level. As of July 1, 2022, the minimum wage rate for electrical apprentices in California is $16.50 per hour.
12. How do I become an electrician trainee in California?
To become an electrician trainee in California, you must first register with the state as an Electrician Trainee (ET). This requires completing an approved electrical training program and submitting an application to the California Department of Industrial Relations. Once registered, you can work under the supervision of a certified electrician to gain on-the-job experience and complete the required hours of training.
13. What is a good salary in California?
A “good” salary in California can vary depending on several factors, such as location, industry, and cost of living. According to a 2022 report by the California Budget and Policy Center, a single adult in California needs to earn at least $31,200 per year to cover basic living expenses, while a family of four needs to earn at least $78,600 per year. However, salaries that are considered “good” may be higher in certain industries or locations [11].
14. How much does a first-year apprentice electrician earn in California?
The pay for a first-year apprentice electrician in California can vary depending on the program and the location. The California Division of Apprenticeship Standards sets minimum wage rates for apprenticeship programs in the state, which vary based on the industry and the apprenticeship level. As of July 1, 2021, the minimum wage rate for electrical apprentices in California is $16.50 per hour.
15. What is the highest electrician salary in California?
According to PayScale, the top 10% of electricians in California earn more than $98,000 per year as of April 2022.
16. How much does an electrician trade school cost in California?
The cost of an electrician trade school in California can vary depending on the program and the location. Tuition for vocational schools and community colleges can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Apprenticeship programs typically have little or no tuition but may require students to purchase their own tools and equipment.
17. What do electricians charge per hour in California?
The hourly rate that electricians charge in California can vary depending on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and industry. According to HomeAdvisor, the average hourly rate for an electrician in California is $68 as of April 2022.
18. How much does an electrical technician earn in LA?
The pay for an electrical technician in Los Angeles can vary depending on several factors, such as experience, certification, and employer. According to PayScale, the average hourly wage for an electrical technician in Los Angeles is $24.38 as of April 2022 [12].
19. Can you do electrical work without a license in California?
No, it is illegal to perform electrical work in California without a license. The California Contractors State License Board requires that all electrical work be performed by licensed contractors or registered apprentices working under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
20. How long is an electrician school in California?
The length of an electrician school in California can vary depending on the program and the level of education. Vocational schools and community colleges typically offer certificate or diploma programs that can be completed in as little as 6 months to 1 year. Associate degree programs can take 2 years to complete, while bachelor’s degree programs can take 4 years.
21. How much does an electrician school cost in California?
The cost of electrician school in California can vary depending on the program and the level of education. Certificate and diploma programs at vocational schools and community colleges can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to around $20,000. Associate degree programs can cost around $20,000 to $40,000, while bachelor’s degree programs can cost $80,000 or more.
22. Are electricians needed in California?
Yes, electricians are in high demand in California. The state has a growing population and a strong economy, which leads to an increased need for new construction and infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, the growing focus on renewable energy and green technology is expected to create new job opportunities for electricians in California.
23. Are there master electricians in California?
Yes, there are master electricians in California. A master electrician is a certified electrician who has completed additional training and passed a certification exam. In California, electricians can become certified as general electricians or electrical contractors, and can also earn specialized certifications in areas such as renewable energy and industrial controls.
24. How much is an electrician per hour in Los Angeles?
The hourly rate that electricians charge in Los Angeles can vary depending on several factors, such as experience, certification, location, and industry. According to HomeAdvisor, the average hourly rate for an electrician in Los Angeles is $67 as of April 2022 [13].
Useful Video: Electrician – What Does It Take to Become One In California
References:
- https://www.indeed.com/career/electrician/salaries/CA
- https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/electrician/salary/california/
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Electrician-Salary–in-California
- https://mint.intuit.com/salary/electrician/ca
- https://www.electricianschooledu.org/california/california-salary/
- https://www.comparably.com/salaries/salaries-for-union-electrician-in-sacramento-ca
- https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/los-angeles-electrician-salary-SRCH_IL.0,11_IM508_KO12,23.htm
- https://www.zippia.com/electrician-jobs/salary/california/
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- https://huckleberry.com/blog/how-to-become-an-electrician-in-california/
- https://www.servicetitan.com/blog/electrician-salary
- https://www.reddit.com/r/electricians/comments/puttv7/whats_the_average_pay_for_an_electrician_in_ca/
- https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/electrician-salary-by-state