How to Become a Electricians in California
Electricians in California earn a median salary of $76,540/year, which is 23% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a electricians takes home approximately $3,503/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a electricians can afford in California
Becoming a electricians in California
Meet education requirements
Electricians positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves apprenticeship in California. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for electricianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 73,420 electricians. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Electricians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $95K | $45.69/hr | 5,540 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $94K | $45.07/hr | 9,520 |
| Napa | $81K | $38.9/hr | 240 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $80K | $38.5/hr | 540 |
| Vallejo | $80K | $38.45/hr | 610 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $80K | $38.32/hr | 1,020 |
| Salinas | $78K | $37.45/hr | 450 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $77K | $36.99/hr | 350 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $76K | $36.6/hr | 21,070 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $76K | $36.43/hr | 560 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $76K | $36.44/hr | 5,850 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $76K | $36.37/hr | 7,330 |
| El Centro | $76K | $36.34/hr | 160 |
| Modesto | $75K | $36.24/hr | 760 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $75K | $36.21/hr | 1,350 |
Electricians salary range in California
Electricians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a electricians make in California?▼
The median electricians salary in California is $76,540 per year ($36.8/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $62,350. Salaries range from $46,630 to $136,710.
What are the requirements to become a electricians in California?▼
Electricians positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a electricians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $76,540, a electricians in California would take home approximately $4,915/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for electricians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for electricians in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($95,020), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($93,750), Napa ($80,910). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for electricians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $76,540 salary, this means roughly $3,256/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.