Salary Data
Electrician Salary in Houston
$63,000
median salary, 3% below the national average
According to Orbyt's 2026 salary analysis, the average Electrician salary in Houston is $63,000. Salaries range from $49,000 (25th percentile) to $85,000 (75th percentile), adjusted for Houston's cost of living.
Salary range
How Houston compares
Houston, TX
$63,000
Cost of living: 3% below average
National Average
$65,000
Houston is $2,000 below
Electrician job market in Houston
Houston market overview
Houston's economy is deeply rooted in energy, with a growing presence in healthcare, aerospace, and technology. The Texas Medical Center is the world's largest, driving massive demand for clinical and research roles. Houston's low cost of living and no state income tax make it an attractive destination for professionals seeking strong purchasing power.
What drives Electrician salaries
License level (journeyman vs. master), union membership, and specialization are the primary factors. Industrial electricians and those working on high voltage systems earn significantly more than residential wirers. Overtime availability, geographic demand, and experience with renewable energy systems (solar, EV charging) also drive compensation upward.
Beyond base salary
Total compensation
Union electricians receive substantial benefits including pension contributions, health insurance, annuity, and apprenticeship funds that add 30 to 40% on top of hourly wages. Overtime at 1.5x to 2x the base rate is common. Non union electricians negotiate benefits individually, with more variation in total package value.
Tax considerations in Houston
Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston workers strong take home pay. The city's overall cost of living is below the national average, further stretching your salary.
Career progression
Apprentice electricians earn $35,000 to $48,000 during their four to five year training. Journeyman electricians earn $55,000 to $80,000. Master electricians command $75,000 to $105,000. Electrical contractors who start their own business or move into project management can earn $100,000 to $150,000+.
Top industries in Houston
Negotiating in Houston
Emphasize industry specialization in energy or healthcare. Houston employers pay significant premiums for domain expertise in these sectors over generalist candidates.