Electricians are in high demand across the United States, and Sacramento, CA is no exception. With ongoing construction, residential growth, and infrastructure upgrades, skilled electricians enjoy competitive pay and strong job security. In 2026, Sacramento continues to offer lucrative opportunities for electricians at all experience levels.
This guide provides an in-depth look at electrician salaries in Sacramento, factors influencing pay, salary by experience, job trends, benefits, and how Sacramento compares to other cities.
Average Electrician Salary in Sacramento, CA (2026)
Electrician wages in Sacramento are higher than the national average due to the cost of living, union influence, and steady demand for electrical services.
Estimated Salary Range
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $65,000 | $24 – $31 |
| Mid-level | $70,000 – $90,000 | $34 – $43 |
| Experienced | $95,000 – $115,000 | $46 – $55 |
| Master / Specialized | $120,000 – $150,000+ | $58 – $72+ |
Average electrician salary in Sacramento (2026):
👉 Around $85,000 – $95,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts electrician earnings in Sacramento.
1. Entry-Level Electricians (0–2 Years)
Work under supervision or as apprentices
Focus on residential wiring, installations, and basic troubleshooting
Overtime can boost earnings
Average pay: $50,000–$65,000/year
2. Mid-Level Electricians (3–6 Years)
Independently handle most residential and commercial projects
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems
Often start supervising apprentices
Average pay: $70,000–$90,000/year
3. Experienced Electricians (7–10+ Years)
Handle complex commercial and industrial projects
May work with specialized systems like solar or automation
Eligible for higher overtime and leadership pay
Average pay: $95,000–$115,000/year
4. Master Electricians & Specialists
Licensed master electricians overseeing large-scale projects
Contractors or business owners
Emergency and government contract work
Average pay: $120,000–$150,000+ per year
Factors Influencing Electrician Salaries in Sacramento
Several factors directly affect how much electricians earn:
Licensing level (Apprentice, Journeyman, Master)
Union membership
Industry specialization (residential, commercial, industrial, renewable energy)
Overtime availability
Business ownership or contracting work
Emergency and 24/7 service offerings
Specialized electricians, such as those working with solar, high-voltage, or medical systems, can earn significantly more than general electricians.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
While electricians do not require a college degree, proper licensing and certifications greatly enhance earnings.
Key Certifications
California Journeyman Electrician License
Master Electrician License
OSHA Safety Certification
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Certification
Electrical Inspector Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Electrical apprenticeship (typically 4–5 years)
State licensing exams
Certified electricians can earn 15–30% more than unlicensed counterparts.
Job Market Trends for Electricians in Sacramento (2026)
Sacramento’s electrician job market remains strong and stable.
Current Trends
Residential growth and urban development
Increasing commercial construction projects
Expansion of renewable energy installations
Aging electrical infrastructure driving repairs
High retirement rates creating openings
Thousands of job openings for electricians in Sacramento ensure high job security and consistent demand.
Benefits of Being an Electrician in Sacramento
Electricians in Sacramento enjoy many benefits beyond salary.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Union pensions and retirement plans
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job stability
Opportunities for business ownership
Career growth in specialized fields
Union electricians typically receive higher pay and superior benefits compared to non-union electricians.
Electrician Salary Comparison: Sacramento vs Other Cities (2026)
Sacramento’s pay is competitive but slightly lower than California’s largest metro areas.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Sacramento, CA | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $100,000 – $120,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $90,000 – $105,000 |
| San Diego, CA | $80,000 – $95,000 |
| Portland, OR | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $70,000 – $80,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $65,000 – $75,000 |
While San Francisco and Los Angeles pay more, Sacramento offers a lower cost of living and strong job availability.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Sacramento
Sacramento’s cost of living is more moderate than other major California cities. Electricians benefit from:
Higher wages relative to living costs
Overtime and emergency work boosting take-home pay
Affordable housing options outside the city center
Union wages maintaining purchasing power
With proper planning, electricians in Sacramento can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Job Outlook for Electricians in Sacramento
The outlook for electricians in Sacramento remains very positive through 2030.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade with minimal automation risk
Consistent residential and commercial demand
Infrastructure upgrades and renewable energy adoption
Aging workforce creating labor shortages
Electricians enjoy high job security and career longevity in Sacramento.
Why Pursue an Electrician Career in Sacramento in 2026?
Becoming an electrician in Sacramento offers:
Competitive salaries with high growth potential
Career security in a recession-resistant field
Opportunities for business ownership or contracting
Advancement into specialized areas like solar, industrial, or master-level work
For individuals committed to apprenticeships and proper licensing, electrician careers in Sacramento remain an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, electrician salaries in Sacramento, CA reflect the city’s demand, skilled labor shortages, and steady growth. With average salaries approaching six figures for experienced electricians, strong job security, and opportunities for advancement, Sacramento continues to be a top city for electricians seeking a rewarding career.
Whether you are entering the trade, advancing to journeyman status, or aiming for master-level specialization, Sacramento provides ample opportunities for long-term success.