Electricians are essential for maintaining, installing, and repairing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. San Francisco, CA, as a major urban center with high construction activity, offers some of the highest salaries for electricians in the U.S. In 2026, demand for skilled electricians continues to grow due to infrastructure upgrades, new residential developments, and commercial projects.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of electrician salaries in San Francisco, including pay ranges, experience levels, key factors influencing income, certifications, benefits, and comparisons with other major cities.
Average Electrician Salary in San Francisco, CA (2026)
Electricians in San Francisco earn higher-than-average wages due to the city’s cost of living, union presence, and demand for specialized electrical work.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $60,000 – $75,000 | $29 – $36 |
| Mid-level | $80,000 – $100,000 | $38 – $48 |
| Experienced | $105,000 – $130,000 | $50 – $63 |
| Master / Specialized | $135,000 – $160,000+ | $65 – $77+ |
Average electrician salary in San Francisco (2026):
👉 Approximately $98,000 – $105,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience strongly influences earnings for electricians in San Francisco.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices or newly licensed
Work under supervision on residential or small commercial projects
Learn electrical code, wiring, and safety procedures
Average pay: $60,000 – $75,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Work independently on most projects
Handle troubleshooting, installations, and upgrades
May supervise apprentices
Average pay: $80,000 – $100,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Lead commercial and industrial projects
Specialized skills in high-voltage, renewable energy, or automation
Eligible for higher overtime pay
Average pay: $105,000 – $130,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Manage large-scale projects, system designs, and inspections
May own contracting business or handle government contracts
Highly sought after for emergency and complex work
Average pay: $135,000 – $160,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Several variables affect how much electricians can earn in San Francisco:
Licensing level: Journeyman vs. Master
Union vs. non-union employment
Type of work: Residential, commercial, industrial, or specialized
Overtime and emergency call availability
Specialized certifications: Solar, high-voltage, or green energy systems
Business ownership or contracting work
Electricians with advanced skills, union membership, or 24/7 availability can earn significantly higher wages.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While a college degree is not required, certain certifications improve income and job opportunities.
High-Value Certifications
California Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Solar Photovoltaic Installer Certification
High-Voltage or Industrial Electrical Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
State licensing exams
Electricians with certifications can earn 10–30% more than unlicensed counterparts.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in San Francisco (2026)
The electrician job market in San Francisco is strong and expanding.
Current Trends
Growth in residential renovations and new construction
Increased commercial and industrial electrical projects
Demand for renewable energy installations (solar, EV charging stations)
High retirement rates creating skilled labor shortages
City regulations encouraging licensed and certified electricians
San Francisco consistently reports numerous open positions, making the field highly secure.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in San Francisco
Electricians enjoy competitive benefits along with salary:
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Union pensions and retirement plans
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job stability and career advancement
Opportunities for business ownership
Training and certifications supported by employers
Union electricians in San Francisco often receive some of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the country.
Electrician Salary Comparison: San Francisco vs Other Cities (2026)
San Francisco ranks among the top-paying cities for electricians in the U.S., with slightly higher wages than most other major metropolitan areas.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $98,000 – $105,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| San Jose, CA | $95,000 – $102,000 |
| New York City, NY | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $72,000 – $82,000 |
| Houston, TX | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Although cities like San Jose offer competitive pay, San Francisco provides abundant job opportunities and consistent demand.
Cost of Living vs Salary in San Francisco
San Francisco’s high cost of living is offset by electrician salaries:
Wages reflect housing and living expenses
Overtime increases disposable income
Many electricians live in surrounding Bay Area cities for affordability
Union wages ensure financial stability
Electricians in San Francisco can maintain a strong standard of living despite high housing costs.
Job Outlook for Electricians in San Francisco
The job outlook for electricians remains excellent through 2030:
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade with minimal automation risk
Continuous need for residential, commercial, and industrial work
Infrastructure upgrades and renewable energy projects
Retirement of skilled electricians increasing openings
Electricians are considered high-demand and recession-resistant professionals.
Is Being an Electrician in San Francisco a Good Career in 2026?
Yes. Electricians in San Francisco enjoy:
High earning potential without a college degree
Strong job security and benefits
Opportunities for specialization and business ownership
Long-term career growth in a growing market
For those willing to complete apprenticeships, obtain licenses, and develop skills, electrician work in San Francisco is a smart, future-proof career.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in San Francisco, CA reflect high demand, specialized skills, and cost-of-living adjustments. With average salaries near six figures, excellent benefits, and strong job security, the profession remains one of the most rewarding skilled trades. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to a master electrician, San Francisco offers excellent opportunities for career growth and financial stability.