Best States for Electricians (Highest Paying)
Where you work changes electrician pay more than almost any other factor. Alaska leads at $88,000 — roughly 44% above the national median of $61,000.
Top 10 highest paying states
Ranked by median annual salary for electricians:
- 1. Alaska — $88,000 median
- 2. New York — $82,000 median
- 3. Washington — $82,000 median
- 4. California — $76,000 median
- 5. Illinois — $76,000 median
- 6. Pennsylvania — $62,000 median
- 7. Ohio — $60,000 median
- 8. Michigan — $58,000 median
- 9. Texas — $56,000 median
- 10. Florida — $48,000 median
Why pay varies so much by state
Three things drive the spread: local demand, licensing rules and cost of labor. States with strict licensing and high demand tend to pay a premium because the supply of qualified workers is limited.
Metro areas inside a state can differ by another 15–25%, so treat state medians as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Salary versus cost of living
High-paying coastal states usually carry high housing costs. A $88,000 salary in Alaska can leave you with less disposable income than a mid-tier state paying $64,050.
Run the numbers on rent, state income tax and commute before you decide to relocate.
Frequently asked questions
Which state pays electricians the most?
Alaska, with a median salary of $88,000 per year.
What is the average electrician salary in the US?
The national median is $61,000 per year.
See full electrician salary data
Compare pay by state and experience level with our electrician salary page or the salary calculator.