The demand for skilled electricians continues to grow in Chicago, IL, making it one of the most lucrative and stable trades in the Midwest. With a strong construction market, industrial growth, and increasing residential developments, electricians in Chicago enjoy competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a clear career path.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of electrician salaries in Chicago for 2026, including factors affecting pay, salary by experience, job trends, benefits, certifications, and comparisons with other major cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Chicago, IL (2026)
Electricians in Chicago earn well above the national average due to the city’s industrial base, union presence, and high living costs.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $65,000 | $24 – $31 |
| Mid-level | $70,000 – $90,000 | $34 – $43 |
| Experienced | $95,000 – $115,000 | $46 – $55 |
| Master / Specialized | $120,000 – $150,000+ | $58 – $72+ |
Average electrician salary in Chicago (2026):
👉 Around $85,000 – $95,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a critical role in an electrician’s earning potential in Chicago.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices under supervision
Focus on residential and small commercial projects
Limited overtime, mainly learning phase
Average pay: $50,000–$65,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independently manage most projects
Work on residential, commercial, and some industrial systems
Opportunity for overtime and specialty pay
Average pay: $70,000–$90,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Handle large-scale projects, industrial installations, and troubleshooting
Often supervise teams and mentor apprentices
Eligible for bonuses or higher union rates
Average pay: $95,000–$115,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
License holders with specialized skills (high-voltage, industrial systems)
May own contracting business or work government/large commercial projects
High demand leads to top-tier salaries
Average pay: $120,000–$150,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings in Chicago
Several factors can significantly impact how much an electrician earns in Chicago:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing level (Apprentice, Journeyman, Master)
Union membership
Specialty skills (high-voltage, industrial, solar, HVAC integration)
Overtime and emergency work
Business ownership or freelance contracting
Project type (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union electricians in Chicago often earn 20–30% more than non-union workers, along with additional benefits.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While formal college degrees are not required, certifications and licenses play a crucial role in earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
Illinois Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Low-Voltage or High-Voltage Certification
Specialized certifications (solar, industrial control systems)
Education & Training Path
High school diploma or GED
4–5 year apprenticeship program
State licensing exams
Electricians with advanced certifications or master-level licenses can earn 30–50% more than entry-level counterparts.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Chicago (2026)
Chicago offers a strong and stable job market for electricians due to urban growth and industrial activity.
Current Trends
Growing residential and commercial construction projects
Aging electrical infrastructure requiring upgrades
Increased demand for renewable energy and solar systems
Labor shortages due to retirements of senior electricians
Union presence provides stable, high-paying jobs
Chicago consistently reports thousands of open electrician positions, making this trade highly secure.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Chicago
Electricians enjoy more than just salary in Chicago. Benefits make this career highly desirable.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (401k, pensions, union plans)
Paid overtime, holidays, and emergency pay
Stable year-round demand
Career growth and business ownership opportunities
Union membership often enhances both salary and benefits, making electricians’ total compensation competitive.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Chicago vs Other Cities (2026)
Chicago’s electrician salaries are competitive compared to other major U.S. cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| New York City, NY | $90,000 – $105,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| Houston, TX | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Although cities like New York and Los Angeles pay slightly more, Chicago offers strong job volume and cost-adjusted pay.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Chicago
Chicago has a moderate cost of living compared to coastal cities, which makes electrician salaries more valuable.
Key Points
Housing and transportation costs are manageable relative to wages
Overtime opportunities increase net income
Living outside the downtown core can improve disposable income
Union wages help maintain a high standard of living
Electricians can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while building long-term savings.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Chicago
The electrician career outlook in Chicago is highly favorable through 2030.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade with no risk of automation
Constant need for maintenance and upgrades
Urban growth and industrial expansion
Retirements creating new openings for skilled electricians
Electrician jobs are recession-resistant, making this a secure and rewarding career path.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Chicago a Good Career Choice in 2026?
Absolutely. This career offers:
High earning potential without college debt
Strong job security and growth opportunities
Benefits and retirement plans
Opportunities for entrepreneurship and specialization
For those willing to complete an apprenticeship and licensing, Chicago provides excellent prospects for electricians at every career stage.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the electrician salary in Chicago, IL reflects strong demand, skilled labor shortages, and urban development. With average salaries approaching six figures and solid benefits, this profession remains a highly attractive and stable career choice. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to master electrician, Chicago offers a wealth of opportunities for skilled tradespeople to thrive.