Salary Data
Electrician Salary in Philadelphia
$71,000
median salary, 9% above the national average
According to Orbyt's 2026 salary analysis, the average Electrician salary in Philadelphia is $71,000. Salaries range from $55,000 (25th percentile) to $96,000 (75th percentile), adjusted for Philadelphia's cost of living.
Salary range
How Philadelphia compares
Philadelphia, PA
$71,000
Cost of living: 9% above average
National Average
$65,000
Philadelphia is $6,000 above
Electrician job market in Philadelphia
Philadelphia market overview
Philadelphia combines a robust healthcare and life sciences sector with established finance and higher education institutions. The city's pharmaceutical corridor is among the strongest in the country. Tech growth has accelerated, particularly in health tech and enterprise software, offering salaries that stretch further than in nearby New York.
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 Philadelphia
Pennsylvania has a flat 3.07% state income tax, but Philadelphia adds a 3.75% city wage tax for residents. This combined local burden is worth factoring into salary negotiations.
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 Philadelphia
Negotiating in Philadelphia
Account for the Philadelphia wage tax in your ask. Request a 5 to 8% premium over suburban offers to offset the city's local tax on all earned income.