Choosing a career as an electrician can lead to strong earnings and job stability—especially in Chesapeake, VA. In this detailed 2026 guide, we’ll explore electrician salaries in Chesapeake, factors that influence pay, how experience impacts earnings, job market trends, benefits of the profession, and how Chesapeake compares with nearby cities.
⚡ Average Electrician Salary in Chesapeake, VA (2026)
Electricians in Chesapeake earn solid pay for skilled trade work. While estimates vary depending on employer and data source, multiple salary reports provide consistent insights.
💼 Estimated Salary Range (Annual)
| Role / Source | Typical Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician (Glassdoor) | $53,000–$86,000 | Median ~ $67,000/yr. |
| GovSalaries Estimate | $50,000–$74,000 | Average ~ $62,850/yr. |
| Salary.com Electrician I | $46,390–$57,758 | Avg ~$52,066/yr for early level. |
| Indeed Hourly Estimate | ~$29.34/hr | Translates to roughly $60,000/yr if full‑time. |
👉 Overall average electrician salary in Chesapeake in 2026: Approximately $60,000–$70,000 per year, with top pay near $85,000+.
Hourly wages generally range from about $22 to $40+ per hour, depending on experience and role.
🧰 Salary by Experience Level
Experience dramatically affects earnings as you progress from apprentice to journeyman and beyond.
🔌 Electrician Salary Progression
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary | Typical Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | ~$22.42–$25/hr | $22–$25/hr |
| Early Career (Journeyman) | ~$52,000–$67,000 | $25–$32/hr |
| Mid-Level | ~$65,000–$75,000 | $30–$36/hr |
| Senior / Specialized | ~$80,000+ | $38–$45+/hr |
📌 Apprentices and Entry Levels
Apprentices just starting typically earn $22–$25 per hour, with annual salaries around the mid $40,000s to low $50,000s.
🧑🔧 Journeyman & Experienced Electricians
Journeymen electricians with a few years of experience generally move into the $55,000–$70,000+ range. Higher experience, specialty skills, or work on larger commercial/industrial jobs pushes salaries above $80,000+.
🎯 Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
Electrician pay in Chesapeake is shaped by several key elements:
💡 Experience & Skill Level
More experience equates to better pay. Advanced troubleshooting, commercial/industrial expertise, and supervisory skills boost earnings.
🧾 Certifications & Licensing
Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Specialized certifications (e.g., solar, industrial control systems)
Certified and licensed electricians command higher pay and better job prospects.
🛠️ Industry & Sector
Electricians working in government, manufacturing, or specialized sectors often earn more than entry‑level residential installers.
📍 Employer & Location
Government and large contractors tend to pay higher than small residential firms. Chesapeake’s position in the Hampton Roads region also exposes electricians to opportunities in nearby cities.
📈 Job Market Trends (2026)
Electricians continue to be in demand in Chesapeake and beyond.
📊 Local Demand Drivers
Residential construction and remodeling
Commercial and industrial electrical projects
Infrastructure upgrades
Renewable energy installations
Aging electrical systems needing maintenance
According to local trade discussions, some electricians expect busy years ahead due to ongoing infrastructure and industrial growth.
👷 National Outlook
The electrical trade remains essential with minimal automation risk and steady demand due to constant maintenance and construction needs.
📊 Chesapeake vs Nearby Cities: Salary Comparison
| City / Region | Avg Electrician Salary (est.) |
|---|---|
| Chesapeake, VA | ~$60K–$70K+ |
| Virginia Beach, VA | ~$49K |
| Norfolk, VA | ~$45K |
| Richmond, VA | ~$53K |
| Fairfax, VA | ~$75K |
Chesapeake electricians earn more than some neighboring cities in Hampton Roads but slightly less than northern Virginia areas like Fairfax.
📚 Certifications & Education That Elevate Salaries
Although formal college isn’t required for electricians, structured training and credentials matter:
📘 Common Pathways
High school diploma or GED
Trade school or technical training
Apprenticeship program (4–5 years)
State electrician license
Additional certifications (e.g., OSHA, solar, industrial)
Certified and licensed electricians typically earn significantly more than non‑certified peers.
⭐ Benefits of Being an Electrician
Electricians enjoy several advantages as a career:
✅ Earning Potential
Steady income with growth potential as skills increase.
✅ Job Security
Essential services mean electricians are needed regardless of economic cycles.
✅ Career Growth
Opportunities to become supervisors, contractors, or specialized technicians.
✅ Work Variety
Residential, commercial, industrial, and renewable energy sectors offer diverse opportunities.
✅ Benefits Packages
Many employers provide health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and training stipends.
🔍 Job Outlook and Future Opportunities
The job outlook for electricians in Chesapeake remains strong in 2026:
Steady growth from new construction and renovations
High demand for maintenance and upgrades
Opportunities in green energy and automated systems
While data from local trades suggests some seasonal variation, overall demand is expected to stay healthy.
🧠 Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Chesapeake, VA offer competitive earnings for a skilled trade career. With strong demand, clear paths for advancement, and excellent job security, becoming an electrician can be a smart choice — especially for those who pursue certification and apprenticeships early. Whether starting as an apprentice or stepping up to journeyman or specialized roles, the electrical trade continues to provide solid income opportunities in Chesapeake and the broader Virginia region.