Electricians play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of electrical systems across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. In Milwaukee, WI, the demand for skilled electricians remains strong, supported by ongoing construction, industrial maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades.
This guide provides an in-depth look at electrician salaries in Milwaukee in 2026, including average pay, factors that affect earnings, salary by experience, certifications, benefits, job outlook, and comparisons with other major U.S. cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Milwaukee, WI (2026)
Electrician salaries in Milwaukee are influenced by union membership, experience, type of work, and certification levels. On average, electricians in Milwaukee earn competitive wages relative to other midwestern cities.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $45,000 – $55,000 | $22 – $27 |
| Mid-Level | $60,000 – $75,000 | $29 – $36 |
| Experienced | $80,000 – $95,000 | $38 – $46 |
| Master / Specialized | $100,000 – $120,000+ | $48 – $58+ |
Average electrician salary in Milwaukee (2026):
👉 Approximately $72,000–$78,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience greatly influences how much an electrician can earn in Milwaukee.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Typically apprentices working under supervision
Perform basic wiring, installations, and maintenance
Opportunities to earn overtime
Average pay: $45,000–$55,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Work independently on residential and commercial projects
Handle troubleshooting and more complex systems
Often eligible for higher hourly rates and small bonuses
Average pay: $60,000–$75,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Specialize in industrial, commercial, or complex residential systems
Lead teams or manage projects
Higher earning potential from overtime and emergency work
Average pay: $80,000–$95,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Licensed electricians who may own businesses or manage large projects
Expertise in industrial or specialized electrical systems
Can command the highest wages
Average pay: $100,000–$120,000+/year
Factors That Influence Electrician Earnings in Milwaukee
Several factors affect how much electricians earn in Milwaukee:
Key Salary Drivers
Licensing Level: Journeyman vs. Master Electrician
Union Membership: Union electricians often earn more and receive better benefits
Type of Work: Residential, commercial, or industrial
Overtime and Emergency Calls: On-call work increases income
Specialized Skills: Renewable energy systems, industrial controls, or advanced automation
Electricians who continually upgrade their skills or offer specialized services can significantly increase their earnings.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Licensing and certifications are essential for electricians in Milwaukee, and they can directly impact pay.
High-Value Certifications
Wisconsin Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Certification
Specialized certifications in solar, HVAC, or industrial controls
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years)
State licensing exams
Electricians with master licenses or specialized certifications can earn 15–30% more than those without.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Milwaukee (2026)
The job market for electricians in Milwaukee remains stable and promising.
Current Trends
Growing residential construction and home renovations
Industrial maintenance and manufacturing expansions
Increasing demand for renewable energy and energy-efficient systems
Infrastructure upgrades in public and commercial buildings
Aging workforce leading to retirements and high demand for new electricians
Milwaukee consistently shows strong openings for electricians, making job security robust.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Milwaukee
Beyond salary, electricians enjoy several professional benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans and union pensions
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Strong job stability and consistent work year-round
Potential for business ownership and freelancing
Opportunities for career growth into project management
Union electricians often receive some of the best benefits packages in the trade.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Milwaukee vs Other Cities (2026)
Milwaukee provides competitive wages for electricians compared to other U.S. cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee, WI | $72,000 – $78,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Minneapolis, MN | $70,000 – $78,000 |
| Detroit, MI | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Indianapolis, IN | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Madison, WI | $65,000 – $72,000 |
While Chicago pays slightly higher wages, Milwaukee offers a lower cost of living with solid opportunities, making it attractive for electricians.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Milwaukee
Milwaukee has a moderate cost of living relative to larger metro areas.
Key Takeaways
Wages are sufficient to maintain a comfortable lifestyle
Overtime opportunities boost net income
Housing costs are lower than cities like Chicago or Minneapolis
Unionized electricians maintain strong purchasing power
Job Outlook for Electricians in Milwaukee
The outlook for electricians in Milwaukee is very positive through 2030.
Why the Outlook Is Strong
Essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous demand for residential, commercial, and industrial services
Infrastructure investment and urban development
Retiring electricians create openings for new talent
Electrician work is considered stable and recession-resistant, ensuring long-term career security.
Is Being an Electrician in Milwaukee a Good Career in 2026?
Absolutely. Milwaukee offers:
Competitive salaries without college debt
Excellent job security
Opportunities for specialized work or business ownership
Strong benefits packages and career growth
For those willing to complete apprenticeships and earn state licensing, being an electrician in Milwaukee is a smart and sustainable career choice.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the electrician salary in Milwaukee, WI reflects strong demand, steady construction growth, and skilled labor shortages. With average salaries approaching $78,000 annually and excellent benefits, Milwaukee provides promising opportunities for both entry-level and experienced electricians. By investing in certifications and skills, electricians can maximize earnings while enjoying one of the most reliable and rewarding trades in the U.S.