Electrician Salary in the UK
Qualified electricians earn £28,000-£42,000 employed, but self-employed electricians can earn significantly more — £40,000-£70,000 depending on specialism, location, and willingness to take on emergency work. London electricians typically earn 15-25% more than the national average.
On the average electrician salary of £38,000, you'll take home £30,880 per year or £2,573 per month after income tax and National Insurance. That works out to roughly £20 per hour gross for a standard 37.5-hour week.
Electrician Salary by Experience
Here is what electricians in the UK earn at each career stage, along with approximate monthly take home pay:
| Level | Gross Salary | Monthly Take Home |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | £15,000 - £18,000 | £1,175 - £1,400 |
| Newly Qualified | £28,000 - £32,000 | £1,973 - £2,213 |
| Experienced (5+ years) | £35,000 - £42,000 | £2,393 - £2,813 |
| Master / Specialist | £45,000 - £55,000 | £2,993 - £3,610 |
| Self-employed | £40,000 - £70,000 | £2,693 - £4,510 |
For a detailed tax breakdown at the average level, see our £40,000 salary page.
Self-Employed vs Employed Electricians
One of the biggest decisions for electricians is whether to go self-employed or stay in employed roles. Employed electricians earn £28,000-£45,000 with the security of holiday pay, sick pay, employer pension contributions, and no need to find their own work. Self-employed electricians typically earn £40,000-£70,000 by charging £40-£60 per hour for standard work and £80-£120 for emergency call-outs, but they must cover their own insurance, tools, van costs, and have no guaranteed income during quiet periods. Many electricians start employed to gain experience before going self-employed after 3-5 years. Use our self-employed tax calculator to compare take home pay under both structures, including CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) deductions.
Qualifications and Entry Requirements
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services, plus AM2 assessment. An apprenticeship is the most common route, taking 3-4 years. 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) qualification is essential, and many employers also require ECS (Electrotechnical Certification Scheme) cards.
Job Demand and Outlook
Very high demand driven by housing construction, renewable energy installations, and EV charging infrastructure. Electricians with solar panel and heat pump qualifications are especially sought after as the UK pushes toward net zero. The construction industry continues to face skills shortages, making electricians one of the most in-demand trades.
Career Path and Progression
Apprentice to qualified electrician (3-4 years), then senior electrician, foreman, contracts manager, or self-employed. Many electricians earn significantly more by going self-employed after gaining experience. Specialising in commercial or industrial work typically pays more than domestic. Emergency call-out work commands premium rates. Plumbers follow a similar career path, and many tradespeople compare the two routes — see our electrician vs plumber salary comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electrician earn in the UK?
The average electrician salary in the UK is £38,000 per year, giving take home pay of £30,880/year or £2,573/month after tax and NI. Salaries range from £15,000-£18,000 for apprentices up to £45,000-£55,000 for master electricians and specialists.
How much does a self-employed electrician earn?
Self-employed electricians typically earn £40,000 to £70,000 per year, charging £40-£60/hour for standard work and £80-£120 for emergency call-outs. After business expenses and tax, take home pay is usually £30,000 to £50,000. Use our self-employed calculator for a precise figure.
What is a qualified electrician's starting salary?
A newly qualified electrician typically earns £28,000 to £32,000. On a starting salary of £30,000, take home pay is approximately £2,093/month. With 2-3 years of experience, this rises to £35,000-£42,000.
Related Pages
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