Electricians are essential skilled professionals in construction, maintenance, and industrial operations. Denver, Colorado, offers competitive wages due to its growing population, booming construction sector, and energy infrastructure projects. In 2026, electricians in Denver enjoy strong earning potential, career stability, and opportunities for growth.
This article explores electrician salaries in Denver, factors affecting pay, salary by experience, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with other major cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Denver, CO (2026)
Electrician wages in Denver are higher than the national average due to demand for skilled labor and ongoing construction and maintenance projects.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience 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 – $145,000+ | $58 – $70+ |
Average electrician salary in Denver (2026):
👉 Around $85,000 – $90,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily influences how much an electrician can earn in Denver.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Often apprentices or newly licensed
Work under supervision on residential or light commercial projects
Limited overtime, focus on learning trade skills
Average pay: $50,000–$65,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Handle projects independently
Residential, commercial, or industrial work
Overtime and night-shift work increases earnings
Average pay: $70,000–$90,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Advanced projects, industrial sites, or leadership roles
Eligible for bonuses and higher hourly rates
Often supervise apprentices
Average pay: $95,000–$115,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Licensed for all electrical work, including complex industrial projects
Can run own business or manage large contracts
High earning potential, particularly with certifications in renewable energy or high-voltage systems
Average pay: $120,000–$145,000+/year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Several key factors determine salary for electricians in Denver:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing and certifications (Journeyman vs. Master)
Union vs. non-union employment
Work specialization (residential, commercial, industrial, renewable energy)
Overtime, emergency calls, and night shifts
Experience and years in the field
Business ownership or contract work
Specialized electricians, such as those trained in solar installations or industrial machinery, can earn 20–30% more than general electricians.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While a college degree is not required, certifications and licensing are crucial for higher pay.
High-Value Certifications
Colorado Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Renewable Energy/Solar Installation Certification
High-Voltage Systems Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship program (4–5 years)
State licensing exam
Certified and licensed electricians consistently earn higher wages and enjoy better job stability.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Denver (2026)
Denver’s electrician job market is strong and growing.
Current Trends
High demand for residential, commercial, and industrial electricians
Increased renewable energy projects
Aging infrastructure requiring maintenance and upgrades
Construction growth due to population expansion
Shortage of skilled tradespeople creating higher wages
Electricians in Denver experience stable employment prospects and numerous opportunities for advancement.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Denver
Electricians enjoy a mix of financial and professional benefits beyond salary.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans and pensions
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job security in a high-demand trade
Opportunity to start a private business
Union membership benefits for enhanced pay and stability
Union electricians in Denver often receive some of the best overall compensation packages in the trade.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Denver vs Other Cities (2026)
Denver ranks as a competitive city for electrician wages compared to other major U.S. cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Denver, CO | $85,000 – $90,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $115,000 |
| Austin, TX | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $72,000 – $82,000 |
| Miami, FL | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
While San Francisco offers higher pay, Denver provides a strong balance between salary, cost of living, and abundant work opportunities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Denver
Denver’s cost of living is moderate compared to other large U.S. cities, and electrician wages reflect this balance.
Key Takeaways
Salaries offset housing and transportation costs
Overtime and specialized work can boost income
Many electricians live in surrounding suburbs to reduce expenses
Union wages help maintain purchasing power
Electricians can maintain a comfortable lifestyle with proper financial planning.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Denver
The outlook for electricians in Denver is very positive through the next decade.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade with low automation risk
Ongoing demand for maintenance and new construction
Expanding renewable energy and high-tech projects
Retirement of older tradespeople creates openings
Electricians enjoy strong job security and long-term career potential.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Denver a Good Career Choice in 2026?
Yes. Electricians in Denver benefit from:
Competitive salaries without college debt
High demand and job stability
Opportunities for specialization and business ownership
Strong career growth potential
Denver is an excellent city for those seeking a stable, well-paying skilled trade career in 2026.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Denver, CO reflect strong demand, a growing population, and expanding construction and energy projects. With salaries ranging from $50,000 to over $145,000 depending on experience and certification, electricians in Denver enjoy high earning potential and job security. Whether starting as an apprentice or advancing to master electrician, Denver provides ample opportunities for a prosperous career in the electrical trade.