Electricians are in high demand across the UK, and Leeds is no exception. With ongoing construction, infrastructure upgrades, and renewable energy projects, the need for skilled electricians is growing steadily. In 2026, electrician salaries in Leeds reflect both the cost of living and the demand for qualified professionals.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of electrician salaries in Leeds, including average pay, factors influencing earnings, experience levels, benefits, job trends, and comparisons with other UK cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Leeds (2026)
Electricians in Leeds earn competitive wages compared to the national average. Salaries vary based on skill level, certifications, type of work, and whether the electrician is self-employed or works for a company.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | £22,000 – £28,000 | £11 – £14 |
| Mid-Level | £30,000 – £38,000 | £15 – £19 |
| Experienced | £40,000 – £50,000 | £20 – £25 |
| Master/Specialist | £55,000 – £65,000+ | £27 – £33+ |
Average electrician salary in Leeds:
👉 Around £35,000 – £40,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly affects an electrician’s earnings in Leeds.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Often apprentices or newly qualified
Supervised work on residential and light commercial projects
Focus on basic wiring, installations, and maintenance
Average pay: £22,000 – £28,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most residential and commercial work
Troubleshoot electrical systems
May earn overtime for emergency call-outs
Average pay: £30,000 – £38,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Work on large commercial or industrial projects
Lead teams or supervise apprentices
Specialize in complex installations like renewable energy systems
Average pay: £40,000 – £50,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Highly skilled in areas like industrial automation, high-voltage systems, or smart homes
Often self-employed or running their own contracting business
Can take high-paying contracts and emergency work
Average pay: £55,000 – £65,000+ per year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings in Leeds
Several variables directly impact how much electricians earn:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of qualification (e.g., NVQ, City & Guilds, or Master Electrician status)
Union membership
Specialization (industrial, commercial, renewable energy)
Overtime and emergency work
Self-employment vs. company employment
Location within Leeds (city center jobs tend to pay higher)
Electricians offering 24/7 emergency call-outs often earn more than standard hourly workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
While no university degree is required, completing recognized qualifications significantly improves earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
NVQ Level 3 Electrical Installation
City & Guilds 2365 or 2357
AM2 Assessment (required for full qualification)
PAT Testing Certification
18th Edition Wiring Regulations Certification
Education Path
GCSEs or equivalent in Maths, English, and Science
Electrical apprenticeship (usually 3–4 years)
Full electrician certification exams
Certified electricians in Leeds can earn 20–35% more than unqualified workers.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Leeds (2026)
The electrician job market in Leeds is strong, fueled by both residential and commercial growth.
Key Trends
Expansion of renewable energy installations (solar, wind, EV charging stations)
Ongoing commercial and residential construction
Retirements creating skilled labor gaps
Increased demand for maintenance and emergency electrical services
Growth in smart home and automation technology
There are thousands of active job openings annually, indicating a healthy and stable job market.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Leeds
Electricians enjoy more than just a salary; there are numerous perks to the profession.
Common Benefits
Health insurance and pension schemes
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job security due to essential nature of work
Opportunities for career advancement and specialization
Ability to start a contracting business or consultancy
Flexible working hours for self-employed electricians
Union electricians in Leeds often receive enhanced benefits and higher wages.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Leeds vs Other UK Cities (2026)
Leeds offers competitive salaries compared to other major UK cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Leeds | £35,000 – £40,000 |
| London | £40,000 – £50,000 |
| Manchester | £33,000 – £38,000 |
| Birmingham | £32,000 – £37,000 |
| Glasgow | £30,000 – £36,000 |
| Bristol | £34,000 – £39,000 |
While London pays slightly more, Leeds offers lower living costs and excellent career opportunities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Leeds
Leeds has a moderate cost of living, making electrician salaries more valuable.
Key Takeaways
Housing costs are lower than London or Manchester
Salaries allow a comfortable lifestyle with room for savings
Self-employed electricians can earn significantly more through contracts
Overtime and emergency work can supplement income
Electricians can maintain a strong standard of living while enjoying career growth.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Leeds
The outlook for electricians in Leeds is positive for 2026 and beyond.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous demand from residential, commercial, and industrial sectors
Growing renewable energy installations and EV charging networks
Shortage of skilled electricians due to retirements and expanding projects
Electrical work is considered highly recession-resistant, offering stability even in uncertain economic times.
Is Being an Electrician in Leeds a Good Career in 2026?
Absolutely. Being an electrician in Leeds provides:
Competitive salaries without university debt
High job security and stability
Opportunities for business ownership and freelance work
Continuous career growth and skill development
With proper certifications and experience, electricians in Leeds enjoy excellent income potential and long-term career prospects.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the electrician salary in Leeds reflects the city’s growing infrastructure, construction projects, and skilled labor demand. With salaries ranging from £22,000 for entry-level positions to over £65,000 for specialists, electricians have a financially rewarding and secure career path. Whether starting an apprenticeship or aiming for master-level expertise, Leeds offers numerous opportunities for growth, specialization, and long-term success in the electrical trade.