Average Journeyman Electrician Salary in 2025

The role of a journeyman electrician is vital in the construction, maintenance, and installation of electrical systems. If you’re considering this career or are currently a journeyman electrician, understanding the potential earnings, factors influencing salary, and job outlook can help you plan your career path. In 2025, the demand for skilled electricians remains strong, and the salary for journeyman electricians reflects this demand.

In this article, we will explore the average journeyman electrician salary in 2025, the factors that influence earnings, salary by experience, certifications, and the overall job market trends.

Average Journeyman Electrician Salary in 2025

As of 2025, the average salary for a journeyman electrician in the United States ranges between $50,000 and $75,000 per year. This can vary depending on location, experience, and employer. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Low End: $50,000 – $55,000 per year
• Mid Range: $55,000 – $65,000 per year
• High End: $70,000 – $75,000 per year

These figures can fluctuate based on various factors such as demand, cost of living in the region, and level of expertise.

Factors Influencing a Journeyman Electrician’s Salary

Several factors influence how much a journeyman electrician earns annually. Understanding these can help electricians maximize their earning potential. Some of the key factors include:

1. Location

• Urban vs. Rural: Electricians working in major cities or metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries compared to those working in rural areas. High-cost living regions like California, New York, and Washington typically offer higher wages.
• State Regulations: Certain states have higher wage standards or more unionized environments, which can result in higher pay for electricians.

2. Experience Level

• While journeyman electricians have already completed an apprenticeship and passed necessary exams, their pay can still increase with more experience. Typically, journeymen with 5 to 10 years of experience can earn more than those with less experience.

3. Certifications and Specialization

• Additional Certifications: Electricians who hold additional certifications (such as a Master Electrician license or specialized certifications in areas like industrial electrical systems or renewable energy) can often command higher salaries.
• Specializations: Specializing in high-demand areas, like solar energy systems, electric vehicle charging stations, or industrial systems, can increase earning potential.

4. Union Membership

• Union electricians often earn more than non-union electricians. Union memberships come with collective bargaining power, often leading to higher wages, benefits, and job security.

Salary by Experience

Here’s how salary typically changes with years of experience for a journeyman electrician in 2025:

• Entry-Level (0-3 Years of Experience): Journeyman electricians just starting out earn between $45,000 and $55,000 annually.
• Mid-Level (3-7 Years of Experience): With a few years under their belt, journeymen can expect salaries ranging from $55,000 to $65,000.
• Experienced (7+ Years of Experience): Seasoned electricians typically earn between $65,000 and $75,000, with the potential to earn more with specialized skills or management roles.

Job Market Trends in 2025

The electrical trade remains a high-demand industry due to the growth of new construction projects, the rise of renewable energy, and the ongoing need for electrical system maintenance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for electricians is expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

High Demand in Renewable Energy

With the increasing adoption of renewable energy solutions such as solar panels and wind turbines, electricians specializing in these technologies will likely see significant growth in demand. This trend can also lead to higher pay for those with expertise in green technologies.

Aging Infrastructure and Commercial Projects

Aging infrastructure across the U.S. is also driving demand for electricians, as older electrical systems need updates and repairs. Furthermore, commercial and industrial construction projects continue to grow, particularly in urban areas, further bolstering the demand for electricians.

Job Outlook and Benefits

1. Job Stability

The steady demand for electricians provides a strong level of job stability, making it a secure career choice. Journeyman electricians are less likely to face layoffs compared to other trades due to the essential nature of their work.

2. Benefits

In addition to competitive salaries, many journeyman electricians enjoy robust benefits packages. These may include:

• Health insurance
• Retirement plans (401(k))
• Paid time off
• Union benefits (if applicable)
• Apprenticeship training and career advancement opportunities

3. Career Growth

A journeyman electrician can advance in their career by obtaining a Master Electrician license or transitioning into supervisory roles, project management, or even owning their own electrical contracting business. Continuing education and gaining experience in new technologies or specialized fields can open up additional career opportunities.

Certifications and Education Impacting Salary

While a journeyman electrician must complete an apprenticeship and pass certification exams to work independently, additional certifications and education can significantly influence salary potential.

Key Certifications:

• Master Electrician License: Required for those who want to take on more advanced electrical projects, supervise other electricians, or run their own business.
• Specialized Certifications: Focused certifications in areas such as solar energy, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, or HVAC systems can increase a journeyman’s earning potential.
• Continuing Education: Many states and employers encourage or require ongoing education to keep skills up-to-date and meet licensing requirements.

Conclusion

The salary of a journeyman electrician in 2025 can range widely, with factors such as experience, location, certifications, and specialization all playing a significant role. With a growing demand for electricians, especially in renewable energy and infrastructure repair, the job outlook remains positive. By gaining experience, pursuing additional certifications, and staying current with industry trends, journeyman electricians can increase their earning potential and enjoy a rewarding, stable career.

Whether you’re just starting your journey as an electrician or looking to advance, the path ahead offers numerous opportunities for growth and financial reward.