The demand for skilled electricians in Leicester is on the rise in 2026, driven by infrastructure upgrades, residential and commercial construction, and renewable energy projects. Electricians in Leicester enjoy competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and a stable job market.
This guide provides a detailed look at average electrician salaries, earnings by experience, factors affecting pay, certifications, benefits, and how Leicester compares with other UK cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Leicester (2026)
Electricians in Leicester earn slightly above the national average for skilled trades in the UK. Pay varies depending on experience, qualifications, sector, and whether one works for a company or is self-employed.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | £22,000 – £28,000 | £11 – £14 |
| Mid-level | £28,000 – £36,000 | £14 – £18 |
| Experienced | £36,000 – £45,000 | £18 – £23 |
| Master / Specialist | £45,000 – £60,000+ | £23 – £30+ |
Average electrician salary in Leicester (2026):
👉 Around £33,000 – £37,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience has a direct impact on earning potential for electricians in Leicester.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Usually apprentices or newly qualified
Supervised work on residential wiring and installations
Overtime and weekend work can boost earnings
Average pay: £22,000–£28,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independent handling of residential and commercial projects
Skilled in troubleshooting and installation of new systems
Often earn extra through overtime and emergency work
Average pay: £28,000–£36,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Capable of managing complex projects
Lead small teams or specialized installations
Eligible for higher hourly rates and bonuses
Average pay: £36,000–£45,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Specialize in industrial, commercial, or renewable energy projects
Business owners or contractors with their own teams
Emergency work and contracts increase income potential
Average pay: £45,000–£60,000+ per year
Factors Influencing Electrician Salaries in Leicester
Several elements determine how much an electrician can earn:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of qualification (NVQ, City & Guilds, or Master Electrician)
Sector (residential, commercial, industrial, or renewable energy)
Union membership or membership in professional bodies
Experience and years in the field
Overtime and emergency call-outs
Self-employment or business ownership
Specialized skills, such as EV charging installation, solar power, or smart home systems, can significantly boost pay.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Although a college degree is not required, formal training and certifications are critical for earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation
City & Guilds 2357 or 2365 Electrical Qualifications
Master Electrician Accreditation
PAT Testing Certification
Renewable Energy Installation Certifications
Completing these certifications can increase salary by 10–25%, depending on experience and specialization.
Education Path
GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science (or equivalent)
Apprenticeship (2–4 years)
NVQ Level 2 and 3 qualifications
Optional advanced courses for specialization
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Leicester (2026)
The electrician job market in Leicester is strong and growing.
Current Trends
Growing demand for residential and commercial electrical installations
Renewable energy projects, including solar panels and EV chargers
Infrastructure upgrades and retrofitting of old buildings
Retirements creating labor shortages
Technological advancements increasing the need for specialized electricians
There are hundreds of vacancies annually, making job security high.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Leicester
Beyond competitive salaries, electricians enjoy a range of benefits.
Common Benefits
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Pension plans and workplace insurance
Opportunities for business ownership
Skill development and career progression
Stable employment, even in economic downturns
Electricians with certifications and experience often have additional perks, such as bonus schemes and flexible working.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Leicester vs Other UK Cities (2026)
Leicester offers competitive wages, though some cities pay slightly more due to living costs or demand.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Leicester | £33,000 – £37,000 |
| London | £38,000 – £50,000 |
| Birmingham | £32,000 – £38,000 |
| Manchester | £31,000 – £37,000 |
| Leeds | £30,000 – £36,000 |
| Bristol | £34,000 – £40,000 |
While London pays higher, Leicester provides a balance of salary, lower living costs, and high job availability.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Leicester
The outlook remains very positive through 2030 and beyond.
Why Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade, unlikely to be replaced by automation
Continuous demand for residential, commercial, and renewable projects
High retirement rates leading to more openings
Government initiatives on energy efficiency and electrification
Electricians are expected to remain in demand, making it a stable and long-term career option.
Is Becoming an Electrician in Leicester a Good Career Choice in 2026?
Absolutely. Becoming an electrician in Leicester offers:
Competitive wages with room for growth
Job stability and long-term demand
Opportunities for specialization and entrepreneurship
Skills that are transferable across the UK
With proper training, certifications, and experience, electricians in Leicester can enjoy a rewarding and secure career.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Leicester reflect the city’s strong construction activity, renewable energy adoption, and skilled labor demand. Salaries range from £22,000 for entry-level apprentices to £60,000+ for specialized, master electricians. With certifications, experience, and specialization, electricians can maximize earnings while enjoying job security and career growth in a growing city.