Electricians play a vital role in maintaining, installing, and repairing electrical systems across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. In Portland, OR, the demand for skilled electricians remains strong, and salaries reflect the city’s cost of living and ongoing construction and infrastructure projects. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of electrician salaries in Portland in 2026, factors influencing earnings, experience-based pay, certifications, job outlook, and comparisons with other cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Portland, OR (2026)
Portland offers competitive wages for electricians, slightly above the national average due to union presence, urban development, and green energy initiatives.
Salary Range by Experience
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $50,000 – $63,000 | $24 – $30 |
| Mid-Level (3–6 years) | $65,000 – $85,000 | $31 – $41 |
| Experienced (7–10+ years) | $90,000 – $110,000 | $43 – $53 |
| Master / Specialized | $115,000 – $140,000+ | $55 – $67+ |
Average electrician salary in Portland (2026):
👉 Around $82,000–$88,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts electrician pay in Portland, as advanced skills and independent work increase value.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices working under supervision
Perform installations, basic repairs, and wiring tasks
Overtime opportunities improve income
Average pay: $50,000–$63,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Handle independent projects in residential and light commercial settings
Troubleshoot electrical systems efficiently
May supervise apprentices
Average pay: $65,000–$85,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Work on commercial and industrial projects
Specialized tasks like renewable energy installations or automation systems
Eligible for higher overtime and project bonuses
Average pay: $90,000–$110,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Licensed masters who can operate their own business
Handle complex systems and large-scale installations
Work with government or industrial contracts
Average pay: $115,000–$140,000+ per year
Factors Influencing Electrician Earnings
Several factors determine how much an electrician earns in Portland:
Licensing level (Journeyman vs. Master)
Union vs. non-union employment
Specialized skills (solar, industrial, high-voltage)
Overtime, emergency calls, and project complexity
Business ownership or contracting opportunities
Electricians offering 24/7 emergency services often earn significantly more than standard hourly workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Education and certifications directly impact earning potential for electricians.
High-Value Certifications
Oregon Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Renewable Energy / Solar Certification
Industrial or High-Voltage Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
State licensing exams
Electricians with advanced licenses or specialized certifications can earn 20–35% more than unlicensed workers.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Portland
The demand for electricians in Portland is expected to remain strong in 2026.
Key Trends
Growth in residential construction and urban development
Expansion of renewable energy projects (solar, wind)
Aging infrastructure requiring upgrades and maintenance
Strong union presence offering stable wages
Increasing demand for energy-efficient and smart-home systems
Portland consistently reports a high number of electrician job openings, reflecting stable and growing demand.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Portland
Beyond salary, electricians enjoy several additional advantages.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans, including union pensions
Paid overtime and holidays
Job security due to essential nature of trade
Opportunities for entrepreneurship
Skill development and long-term career growth
Union electricians often receive superior benefits packages and job protections.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Portland vs Other Cities (2026)
Portland ranks well compared to other U.S. cities, though some metropolitan areas pay slightly more.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Portland, OR | $82,000 – $88,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $95,000 – $110,000 |
| Denver, CO | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Austin, TX | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $68,000 – $78,000 |
Portland offers a strong balance between salary, cost of living, and job availability compared to other cities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Portland
While Portland has a moderate cost of living compared to cities like San Francisco or Seattle, electrician salaries are adjusted accordingly.
Key Considerations
High wages offset housing costs and urban expenses
Overtime and specialized work boost net income
Union jobs provide stable purchasing power
Electricians can maintain a comfortable lifestyle, especially with careful financial planning.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Portland
The long-term outlook for electricians in Portland is very promising.
Reasons for a Positive Outlook
Essential trade with minimal risk of automation
Continuous need for repairs, maintenance, and new installations
Infrastructure and green energy investments
Population growth and urban development
Electricians are considered one of the most recession-resistant trades in Portland and nationwide.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Portland a Good Career in 2026?
Yes. Electricians in Portland enjoy:
Strong earning potential without the need for a college degree
High job security and demand
Opportunities for entrepreneurship and contracting
Benefits packages, union protections, and growth potential
Apprenticeships and licensing open doors to a high-paying, sustainable career in the city.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the electrician salary in Portland, OR reflects the city’s demand for skilled labor, ongoing construction, and green energy projects. With average salaries nearing $85,000 per year and strong growth prospects, the electrical trade is a smart and future-proof career choice. Entry-level or master electricians alike can expect solid wages, job stability, and opportunities for advancement in one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic cities.