Electricians are among the most in-demand skilled trades in the United States, and Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a unique market with competitive salaries due to high living costs and steady construction demand. In 2026, electrician wages in Honolulu are expected to remain strong as residential, commercial, and renewable energy projects continue to grow.
This guide provides an in-depth look at average electrician salaries in Honolulu, earnings by experience, factors that affect pay, job trends, benefits, education requirements, and comparisons with other major cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Honolulu, HI (2026)
Honolulu electricians generally earn more than the national average due to the island’s high cost of living, reliance on skilled labor, and demand for energy-efficient systems.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $55,000 – $68,000 | $26 – $33 |
| Mid-level | $70,000 – $88,000 | $34 – $42 |
| Experienced | $90,000 – $110,000 | $43 – $53 |
| Master / Specialized | $115,000 – $140,000+ | $55 – $68+ |
Average electrician salary in Honolulu (2026):
👉 Approximately $85,000 – $95,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily influences electrician earnings in Honolulu. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Apprentices or newly licensed electricians
Work under supervision, mainly residential jobs
Learn installation, wiring, and basic troubleshooting
Average pay: $55,000–$68,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independently handle residential and commercial work
Responsible for installations, repairs, and inspections
Begin supervising apprentices
Average pay: $70,000–$88,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Handle commercial and large-scale projects
Specialize in complex electrical systems
May take leadership roles or work as contractors
Average pay: $90,000–$110,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Specialized areas such as renewable energy, industrial systems, or high-voltage
Often business owners or contractors
Emergency and high-risk projects
Average pay: $115,000–$140,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Several variables determine how much an electrician can earn in Honolulu:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing level (Journeyman vs. Master Electrician)
Union affiliation
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial, renewable energy)
Overtime, night, or emergency shifts
Specialized certifications (solar, high-voltage, safety)
Self-employment or business ownership
Electricians with high-demand certifications or who work in specialized fields often earn 20–30% more than standard electricians.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While formal college degrees aren’t required, certifications and training significantly improve earning potential.
Important Certifications
Hawaii State Electrical License (Journeyman & Master)
OSHA Safety Certification
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Certification
High-Voltage Electrical Certification
Industrial Control Systems Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (4–5 years)
State licensing exam
Licensed and certified electricians in Honolulu can see substantial increases in annual pay compared to unlicensed workers.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Honolulu (2026)
Honolulu’s electrician market is stable with promising growth.
Current Trends
Growing residential and commercial construction
Expansion of solar and renewable energy projects
Aging electrical infrastructure requiring upgrades
High demand for emergency and maintenance services
Labor shortages due to retirements and low new entrant numbers
The demand ensures that electricians in Honolulu enjoy job security and consistent work.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Honolulu
Beyond salary, electricians enjoy several professional and financial advantages.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans, including union pensions
Paid overtime and hazard pay
Career advancement opportunities
Self-employment and contracting options
Steady work due to year-round construction
Unionized electricians often receive premium benefits packages in Hawaii, making the profession even more attractive.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Honolulu vs Other Cities (2026)
Honolulu offers high wages, but the cost of living is also one of the highest in the U.S. Here’s how it compares:
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Honolulu, HI | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $110,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $92,000 – $98,000 |
| New York City, NY | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $80,000 – $90,000 |
Although San Francisco pays slightly more, Honolulu offers consistent work and strong demand, especially in specialized sectors like solar energy.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Honolulu
Electricians’ salaries in Honolulu reflect the high cost of living.
Key Takeaways
Higher wages help offset expensive housing and goods
Overtime and specialized work can significantly increase net income
Many electricians commute from surrounding areas to save on living costs
Union wages help maintain a stable lifestyle
With proper planning, electricians can maintain a comfortable standard of living in Honolulu.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Honolulu
The outlook for electricians in Honolulu is positive through 2030.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous need for maintenance and upgrades
Growth in renewable energy projects
Population growth increasing residential and commercial demand
Electricians are considered highly recession-resistant professionals in Honolulu.
Is Being an Electrician in Honolulu a Good Career in 2026?
Yes. Electricians in Honolulu benefit from:
Competitive salaries
Career advancement opportunities
Strong job security
Specialized certifications boosting earning potential
Opportunities to start a contracting business
For anyone willing to complete apprenticeship programs and licensing, Honolulu is a high-opportunity market for electricians.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Honolulu, HI reflect a high-demand skilled trade market with excellent pay potential. With the right combination of experience, certifications, and specialization, electricians in Honolulu can enjoy strong earnings, job security, and career growth, making it a rewarding profession on the islands.