Electricians play a critical role in powering homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In Winston‑Salem, NC, this essential skilled trade continues to offer solid earning potential and strong job prospects in 2026. This comprehensive article breaks down electrician salaries, experience levels, factors that influence pay, job trends, benefits, and comparisons with other cities — providing real value for anyone exploring or progressing in this career.
Average Electrician Salary in Winston‑Salem, NC (2026)
Electrician compensation in Winston‑Salem varies based on experience, certification, and job responsibilities. Multiple sources show a range of average wages, reflecting different data collection methods and job roles.
2026 Salary Overview
| Data Source | Average Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salary.com | $48,307 – $83,801 (range) | Reflects broad electrician roles across skill levels |
| Salary.com (Electrician I) | $51,722 avg | Entry‑level focused |
| ReadySetHire | ~$50,925 | Overall field average |
| Indeed (City of Winston‑Salem) | ~$47,130 | Company‑specific postings |
| Glassdoor (Median) | ~$69,000 | More experienced range |
| Indeed (Hourly basis) | ~$25.24/hr | Translates to ~$50K+/year |
👉 Typical electrician salary range in Winston‑Salem (2026): $45,000 – $85,000+ annually
Median pay often clusters around $50,000–$70,000 per year, depending on experience and role.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience is one of the most important drivers of electrician earnings. Here’s a breakdown of how wages typically progress with experience:
Entry‑Level & Apprentices
Apprentice Electrician: Around $20.78 per hour on average ($43,000–$46,000/year)
Entry‑level electricians typically start around $40,000–$50,000 annually with on‑the‑job training.
Mid‑Level Electricians
With a few years of experience and a journeyman license, electricians can see pay increase to $50,000–$65,000+.
Mid‑level roles handle more complex installations and may lead small teams.
Experienced & Licensed Professionals
Journeyman or licensed electricians often earn $60,000–$80,000+, with some earning more depending on specialization or employer.
Advanced roles, industrial electricians, or those with niche skills can push above $80,000 annually.
Master Electricians & Specialists
Master electricians, electrical contractors, or those running their own business may exceed $90,000–$100,000 with overtime and specialty work.
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Electrician salaries are not static and vary based on several key factors:
1. Education & Certification
Completing an apprenticeship program and state licensing boosts credibility and earnings.
Advanced certifications (e.g., in industrial systems, solar installations, or specialized wiring) can command higher pay.
2. Experience Level
Experience directly correlates with earning potential. Skilled electricians with years of field experience typically earn more than entry‑level workers.
3. Type of Work
Residential work is steady but often lower‑paying.
Commercial and industrial projects usually pay more due to complexity.
Specialized sectors like medical facilities or automation command premiums.
4. Employer & Industry
Government jobs, utilities, and manufacturing often offer stronger wages and benefits than smaller contractors.
Some companies pay hourly with overtime, while others may pay a salary.
Job Market Trends in Winston‑Salem (2026)
Increasing Demand
Across North Carolina, electrician jobs remain in demand due to construction growth, infrastructure upgrades, and retirements in the skilled trades. Statewide salary surveys indicate continued need for certified electricians.
Employment Outlook
North Carolina’s electrician workforce is expected to grow, with thousands of job openings each year. Trends suggest stable demand for both apprentices and experienced electricians, especially in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
Competitive Landscape
While some trade workers note historically lower pay in parts of NC compared to national averages, rising retirements and expanding construction are pushing wages upward. Regional competition for talent could further drive salary growth in coming years.
Benefits of Pursuing an Electrician Career
Electricians enjoy several professional and lifestyle advantages:
Job Stability
Electricians provide essential services regardless of economic cycles. Demand for maintenance, upgrades, and new construction keeps roles steady.
Strong Earnings Potential
With experience, licensing, and specialization, electricians can earn competitive salaries that rival many white‑collar roles.
Career Advancement
Progression from apprentice to journeyman to master electrician.
Opportunities to start your own contracting business.
Benefits & Perks
Many employers offer:
Health and retirement benefits
Paid vacation and sick leave
Overtime pay
Job training and certification support
Certifications & Education That Improve Salary
Education and formal training play a huge role in career growth and salary prospects.
Key Certifications
Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
Certifications in low voltage, solar installation, or industrial controls
Common Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Electrical trade school or community college courses
Apprenticeship (often 4–5 years)
State licensing exams
These steps not only improve earning power but also open doors to supervisory or specialized roles.
Comparing Electrician Salaries: Winston‑Salem vs Other Cities (2026)
| City | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Winston‑Salem, NC | $45,000 – $85,000+ |
| Charlotte, NC | ~$55,000 – $85,000+ (higher urban demand) |
| Raleigh, NC | ~$55,000 – $90,000+ (growing tech & construction) |
| Greensboro, NC | Similar to Winston‑Salem, slightly higher opportunities |
| Fayetteville, NC | Often higher due to military & industrial demand |
Winston‑Salem holds its own regionally but may lag slightly behind larger metro areas where construction and industrial demand push wages higher.
Job Outlook Through 2030
The future for electricians looks solid. Growth in construction, technology integration in buildings, and retirement of older workers are all fueling continued demand for skilled electricians. Trends suggest electricians will remain essential workers with stable and potentially rising compensation.
Final Thoughts
In Winston‑Salem, NC, electrician salaries in 2026 reflect a rewarding balance between entry‑level accessibility and high earning potential for experienced professionals. With strong job prospects, opportunities for advancement, and steady demand across sectors, a career as an electrician offers reliable income and growth for years to come.
Whether you’re starting your apprenticeship or aiming to become a master electrician, understanding the salary landscape and key influencing factors will help you make informed career decisions and maximize your earning potential.