Becoming an electrician in Cleveland, Ohio offers a rewarding career path with solid income potential, steady demand, and opportunities for growth. In 2026, electrician salaries in the Cleveland area reflect both the city’s cost of living and the continuing need for skilled tradespeople across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
This extensive article explores electrician salary ranges, earning factors, experience-based pay, job trends, education impact, benefits, and how Cleveland compares with other cities — all structured to deliver real value to job seekers and career planners.
Average Electrician Salary in Cleveland (2026)
Electrician salaries can vary widely depending on job role, experience, and specialty. Here’s a clear breakdown of pay in Cleveland.
Typical Salary Range
| Job Type | Average Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Electrician | ~$50,000 – $60,000 | Entry-level or helper roles |
| Electrician (general) | ~$50,555 – $87,700 | Broad average range for electricians in Cleveland area |
| Journeyman Electrician | ~$68,366 | Experienced tradesperson |
| Industrial Electrician | ~$70,264 | Specialized industrial sector |
| Electrician (Indeed hourly) | ~$31.42/hr ≈ $65,300 yearly* | Based on job reports |
*Hourly figures converted to annual based on full-time hours.
Overall, the typical electrician salary in Cleveland hovers around $60,000–$75,000 per year depending on experience, certifications, and employer.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in how much electricians earn. As you gain hands-on skills and credentials, pay generally increases.
Entry-Level Electrician (0–2 years)
Often apprentices or helpers.
May work alongside journeymen to learn wiring, safety, and maintenance.
Typical annual salary: $45,000 – $60,000 range
Mid-Level Electrician (3–5 years)
Independently complete most residential and commercial tasks.
May begin supervising helpers.
Average yearly pay often $60,000 – $70,000
Journeyman Electrician (5+ years)
Fully licensed and capable of larger industrial and complex work.
Handles electrical system installs, troubleshooting, and compliance.
Average salary ~$68,366/year
Senior / Industrial Electrician
Specialized roles like industrial electricians can earn more — often $70,000+
Some senior or union electricians with overtime or advanced specialties exceed $80,000–$90,000 depending on employer and responsibility.
Key Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings
1. Certification and Licensing
Completing an apprenticeship and obtaining a Journeyman license boosts credibility and pay.
Master electrician credentials and additional electrical specialties (e.g., industrial, high-voltage, HVAC integration) can boost rates significantly.
2. Union vs. Non-Union
Union electricians often enjoy higher baseline wages and strong benefits, though starting pay may vary. Local union membership can play a big role in job opportunities and compensation.
3. Specialization
Industrial electricians, automation technicians, or those trained in green energy systems may qualify for premium pay rates.
4. Employer Sector
Electricians working for large manufacturers, government projects, or long-term contracts often see better compensation than smaller residential contractors.
5. Overtime & Emergency Work
Offering after-hours or emergency services can add significant supplemental income.
Job Market Trends in Cleveland for Electricians
Rising Demand
Cleveland continues to see steady demand in construction, infrastructure upgrades, and residential renovations. The push for energy-efficient systems and smart home tech also opens new avenues for electricians.
Stability and Growth
Electrical trade jobs are considered essential in most economic conditions. With ongoing development projects in the Cleveland region — including commercial build-outs and industrial upgrades — electricians remain in demand.
Benefits Beyond Salary
Electrician roles often come with perks that contribute to overall compensation:
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (401k, pensions for union roles)
Paid time off and holidays
Training and continuing education support
Union-negotiated wage protections
These benefits add real value to the total compensation package beyond base salary.
Required Education & Certifications That Impact Salary
Becoming an electrician doesn’t usually require a college degree, but formal training is essential.
Typical Path
High school diploma or GED
Electrician apprenticeship (3–5 years)
Journeyman license
Optional advanced certifications
These ensure compliance with Ohio electrical codes and demonstrate competence — directly influencing earning potential.
How Cleveland Compares with Other Cities (2026)
Here’s how electrician salaries stack up across several relevant locations:
| City | Average Electrician Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Cleveland, OH | ~$60,000–$75,000 |
| Columbus, OH | Similar or slightly lower |
| Cincinnati, OH | Generally similar to Columbus |
| Detroit, MI | ~$75,000–$80,000 regionally |
| Chicago, IL | Higher median rates (~$70k+) |
| Pittsburgh, PA | Comparable (~$60k+) |
Cleveland’s electrician salaries are competitive within the Midwest, though some larger metros with higher living costs may offer slightly more.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Cleveland
The outlook for electricians remains favorable:
Growth Drivers
New construction and renovation work
Infrastructure modernization
Green energy and electrical vehicle integration
Aging electrical systems requiring expert maintenance
With a skilled labor shortage in many trades, becoming a licensed electrician offers strong job security and career longevity.
Is Electrician Work a Good Career Choice in Cleveland?
Absolutely. Choosing a career as an electrician in Cleveland provides:
✔ Stable demand
✔ Increasing specialization opportunities
✔ Competitive pay with experience
✔ Pathways to self-employment or business ownership
✔ Excellent benefits especially via union roles
Electrical work is a rewarding, future-resistant career with room for advancement.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Cleveland, OH reflect a balanced market where experience, licensing, specialization, and industry sector directly influence income. With strong job stability, ongoing demand, and good benefits, the electrical trade offers a solid career path for new entrants and seasoned professionals alike.
Whether you are just starting your apprenticeship or aiming for a senior electrician role, Cleveland remains a promising area for electricians looking to build skills, secure earnings, and grow their careers.