Tennessee Journeyman Electrician Salary Calculator
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Ever wondered how much a Journeyman Electrician is a licensed tradesperson who has completed an apprenticeship and is qualified to work independently on electrical installations and repairs earns in the Volunteer State? In this guide we break down the latest figures, explain what pushes the numbers up or down, and give you practical tips to boost your paycheck.
Quick Takeaways
- Median hourly wage for a journeyman electrician in Tennessee (2025) is $28.50.
- Average annual salary, including overtime, sits around $61,000.
- Union‑affiliated electricians earn roughly 12% more than non‑union peers.
- Specialty certifications (e.g., solar, industrial) can add $5-$10k per year.
- Cost‑of‑living adjustments make Nashville and Knoxville pay higher than rural areas.
How Salaries Are Measured
The primary source for wage data is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) federal agency that collects employment, wage, and occupational outlook information. The BLS reports both hourly and annual earnings, then calculates a median to smooth out extreme outliers. For electricians, the median hourly wage nationwide in 2025 was $27.40; Tennessee’s figure edges higher at $28.50, reflecting stronger demand and a modest cost‑of‑living premium.
Why Tennessee Stands Out
When you compare salary to cost of living, Tennessee ranks favorably. The Cost of Living Index measures average consumer expenses relative to a national baseline of 100 averages 95 for the state, meaning everyday expenses are roughly 5% below the U.S. average. Cities like Nashville (index 107) and Knoxville (index 100) push wages up, while smaller towns sit closer to 90. This geographic nuance is why you’ll see a salary spread of $55k-$68k across the state.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary (base) | Typical Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (0‑2 yr) | $18.00 | $37,440 | Basic health, 401(k) match |
| Journeyman (2‑5 yr) | $28.50 | $59,280 | Health, dental, vision, paid holidays |
| Master / Specialty (5+ yr) | $38.00 | $79,040 | Enhanced retirement, profit‑share, overtime |
Key Factors That Shift the Paycheck
Beyond the baseline figures, several variables can push your earnings higher-or keep them flat.
- Overtime. Electricians often log extra hours on construction sites. Overtime (time‑and‑a‑half) can boost an annual total by $5,000‑$12,000.
- Union Membership. Union electricians in Tennessee report wages 10‑12% above non‑union rates, plus better health plans.
- Specialty Certifications. Adding a solar‑panel or industrial‑machinery certification can command an extra $5k‑$10k per year.
- Geographic Hotspots. Working in Nashville, a regional hub for commercial construction, typically adds $2k‑$4k compared to rural counties.
- Benefits Packages. Companies that provide tuition reimbursement, tool allowances, or profit‑sharing effectively increase total compensation.
How to Maximize Your Earnings
Ready to turn the average $61k figure into something closer to $70k? Here are proven moves:
- Enroll in a recognized electrical apprenticeship program combines classroom instruction with on‑the‑job training, usually lasting 4‑5 years. Completing it early lets you start earning journeyman rates sooner.
- Secure a union membership such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) local chapter in Tennessee. Attend the local meetings to learn about collective bargaining upgrades.
- Obtain niche certifications-think NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) certifications for fire‑rated panels and hazardous‑area wiring-to qualify for higher‑pay specialty jobs.
- Target employers that offer overtime guarantees or project‑based bonuses. Construction firms that work on large‑scale commercial builds often have predictable overtime pipelines.
- Leverage the cost‑of‑living disparity. If you’re in a low‑cost region, consider a short‑term contract in Nashville to boost savings, then return to your base area.
Job Outlook for Tennessee Electricians
The BLS projects a 9% growth for electricians nationwide over the next decade, outpacing the average 4% for all occupations. Tennessee’s construction boom-particularly in renewable‑energy projects and data‑center expansions-feeds that demand. By 2035, the state is expected to add roughly 4,800 new electrician positions, many of which will be at the journeyman level.
What If Your Pay Feels Low?
If you discover you’re earning below the median, start with a salary audit:
- Gather recent pay stubs and compare your hourly rate to the $28.50 benchmark.
- Document any overtime, certifications, or union status you have.
- Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR to discuss a raise, citing the market data you’ve collected.
- If the employer can’t meet the market rate, explore nearby contractors or unions that do.
Remember, the Tennessee electrician salary landscape is fluid-staying proactive keeps you on the higher end of the pay scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly wage for a journeyman electrician in Tennessee?
As of 2025, the median hourly wage is about $28.50, which translates to roughly $59,280 in base annual earnings before overtime.
Do unions really make a difference in pay?
Yes. Union‑affiliated journeymen typically earn 10‑12% more than non‑union peers, plus they receive stronger health and retirement benefits.
How much can overtime add to my yearly income?
Overtime can add anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000 annually, depending on how many extra hours you log and the overtime rate (usually time‑and‑a‑half).
Are there high‑pay specialty certifications?
Certifications in solar installations, industrial machinery, and NRTL fire‑rated equipment can each raise your salary by $5,000‑$10,000 per year.
What’s the job growth outlook for electricians in Tennessee?
The BLS forecasts a 9% national growth for electricians over the next ten years, with Tennessee adding roughly 4,800 new jobs, especially in renewable energy and data‑center construction.