Here is a comprehensive career guide for electricians considering a move to Akron, Ohio.

Electrician Career Guide: Akron, Ohio

Akron isn't just the "Rubber City" anymore. It's a hub for healthcare, light manufacturing, and a surprising amount of construction work. For an electrician, that means steady demand, reasonable living costs, and a city that's big enough to offer variety but small enough that you can actually build a reputation. As a local, I've seen the trade evolve here—fewer big industrial jobs, more healthcare facility upgrades and residential work in the suburbs. Here’s the unvarnished reality of what it’s like to wire this city.

The Salary Picture: Where Akron Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. The data shows that Akron offers a solid middle-ground wage, especially when you factor in the local cost of living. The median salary for electricians in the Akron metro area is $60,220/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.95. This is slightly below the national average of $61,550, but that gap narrows significantly when you look at purchasing power. The Akron metro area currently supports 566 jobs for electricians, with a projected 10-year job growth of 11%, which is healthy and indicates stable demand.

Here’s how earnings typically break down by experience level. Note that these are estimates based on local union and non-union scales, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn't publish this specific breakdown for Akron.

Experience Level	Approximate Annual Salary	Description
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$42,000 - $50,000	Apprentice, working under supervision. Focus is on safety codes and basics.
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$55,000 - $68,000	Licensed Journeyman, can work independently, troubleshoot complex systems.
Senior (8-15 yrs)	$70,000 - $85,000	Often a crew lead, estimator, or specialist (e.g., controls, data). May involve overtime.
Expert (15+ yrs)	$85,000+	Master electrician, project manager, or business owner. Top earners can clear six figures.

When comparing Akron to other Ohio cities, the context matters. Columbus has more jobs and slightly higher top-end pay, but also a much higher cost of living. Cleveland's job market is similar to Akron's but slightly more competitive. Cincinnati has a similar cost of living but a different industrial base. For a balanced work-life ratio with a decent wage, Akron is hard to beat.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $60,220/year translates to about $5,018/month before taxes. In Ohio, you're looking at a combined tax bracket (federal, state, FICA) of roughly 22-25%. So your take-home pay is closer to $3,800 - $4,000 per month.

Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single electrician earning the median wage, living in a typical one-bedroom apartment.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Salary: $60,220/year)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	~$3,900	After 22-25% tax withholding.
Rent (1BR)	$816	Akron metro average. Can vary by neighborhood.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150	Higher in winter due to heating.
Groceries	$350	For one person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assumes a modest used vehicle. Essential in Akron.
Gas/Maintenance	$150	Commuting costs.
Health Insurance	$200	If not fully covered by employer.
Retirement/401k (10%)	$500	Crucial for long-term stability.
Misc/Discretionary	$334	Phone, entertainment, dining out.
Total Expenses	~$2,900
Remaining/Savings	~$1,000	Buffer for emergencies or savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. The median home price in Akron is around $130,000-$150,000, which is significantly lower than the national median. With a $60,220 salary, a down payment of 10-20% is manageable with disciplined saving. A mortgage on a $140,000 home with 20% down ($28,000) would be roughly $700-$800/month (including taxes and insurance), which is comparable to rent. This is a major advantage for electricians looking to build equity.

Where the Jobs Are: Akron's Major Employers

The job market in Akron is a mix of healthcare, manufacturing, and specialized trades. I've seen a steady demand for electricians who are comfortable with both new construction and retrofit work.

1. Akron Children's Hospital: A massive employer. They always need electricians for facility maintenance, new wing construction, and specialized medical equipment wiring. They value reliability and security clearances.
2. Summa Health System: Similar to Akron Children's, with multiple facilities. Their facilities team is large, and they often hire directly. It's stable, union-friendly work with great benefits.
3. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company: While the industry has changed, Goodyear still has a significant R&D and manufacturing footprint. They need electricians for plant maintenance, automation, and controls. This is more industrial work.
4. The University of Akron: A huge campus with constant construction, lab upgrades, and building maintenance. They hire both journeymen and apprentices. Good for those who like a variety of work.
5. Local Construction Firms (e.g., Whiting Turner, Gilbane Building Co.): These national firms have major projects in and around Akron, especially in healthcare and education. They hire electricians for the duration of large projects. It's great for building a resume but can be seasonal.
6. Akron Public Schools: A steady public-sector employer. They need electricians for school maintenance and renovation projects. The pay is competitive, and the benefits are excellent.
7. Specialty Electrical Contractors: Firms like Cleveland Electric Laboratories (serving Akron) or Bristol Electric handle specialized work in data centers, security systems, and fire alarms. These are high-skill, high-pay niches.

Hiring Trends: There's a noticeable shift toward electricians with experience in low-voltage systems (security, data, A/V) and energy efficiency (LED retrofits, smart controls). Healthcare and educational facilities are the most consistent hirers.

Getting Licensed in Ohio

Ohio's licensing process is straightforward but requires dedication. You cannot work as an electrician without proper certification. The process is overseen by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB).

Requirements & Timeline:

1. Apprenticeship (4 years, 8,000 hours): You must complete an approved apprenticeship program. This is typically through the Ohio Electrical Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (OEJATC) (the IBEW/NECA union program) or a non-union program like the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).
2. Classroom Hours: Apprenticeships include ~576 hours of classroom instruction per year.
3. Journeyman Exam: After completing your apprenticeship, you take the Ohio Journeyman Electrician exam (based on the NEC). The fee is ~$150.
4. Master Electrician: To become a Master, you need 5 years as a Journeyman (or 2.5 with a degree) and pass the Master exam. This allows you to pull permits and run your own business.

Costs: Apprenticeship programs have minimal tuition (often covered by employer or union dues). Expect to spend $200-$400 on books and tools initially. Exam fees are $150-$200. Total cost to licensure is under $1,000 if you're employed as an apprentice.

Timeline: From starting an apprenticeship to becoming a Journeyman is 4 years. Becoming a Master takes an additional 5 years.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Akron's neighborhoods are diverse, each with a different vibe and commute. Here are the best bets for an electrician's lifestyle.

1. West Akron (Fairlawn, Copley): This is the affluent, stable suburb. Commutes to major employers like Goodyear and hospitals are easy via I-77. It's safe, with great schools. Rent is higher here—a 1BR averages $950-$1,100. Ideal for those with families or who want a quiet home base.
2. North Akron (North Hill, Ellet): More affordable and blue-collar. Close to Summa Health and major highways. It's gritty but has a strong community feel. Rent is very reasonable, around $700-$850 for a 1BR. Commutes are short to most jobs in the city.
3. Downtown Akron / University District: For the younger electrician who wants an urban lifestyle. Close to The University of Akron and nightlife. Parking can be a challenge. Rent is moderate, $800-$950 for a 1BR. Best for those who work downtown or at the university.
4. Cuyahoga Falls (Northeast, outside the city): A separate city but part of the metro area. It's a classic suburb with a great downtown on the river. Commute to Akron is 15-20 minutes. Rent is similar to North Akron. A great balance of suburban comfort and access to the city.
5. Bath / Fairlawn Townships: Rural-suburban. Larger lots, more privacy. Commutes are longer but straightforward. Rent is harder to find in apartments; you might be looking at a small house or duplex. Rent varies widely ($900-$1,400). For the electrician who wants space and doesn't mind driving.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Akron offers solid long-term prospects. The key is specialization.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Industrial Controls / PLC: Worth a $5-$10/hour premium. Plants like Goodyear and local manufacturers pay for this.
  • Low-Voltage / Data: $3-$7/hour premium. Critical in healthcare and office buildings.
  • Solar / Renewable Energy: Growing niche. $2-$5/hour premium for certified installers.
  • Estimating/Project Management: Moves you to a salaried position, often $75,000+.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Journeyman (4 years) -> Specialist (e.g., controls) -> Master Electrician (5 more years) -> Business Owner.
  2. Journeyman -> Facilities Manager (at a hospital or university) -> Director of Facilities.
  3. Journeyman -> Field Supervisor (with a construction firm) -> Project Manager.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 11% job growth is promising. The demand will be driven by aging infrastructure (schools, hospitals), energy efficiency mandates, and the tech upgrade cycle in existing buildings. The union (IBEW Local 351) is active here, which helps maintain wage standards. The biggest opportunity is in the healthcare sector, which is expanding and requires constant, specialized electrical work.

The Verdict: Is Akron Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong purchasing power with a $60,220 median salary vs. low cost of living.	Winter weather can be harsh, affecting outdoor work and commutes.
Stable, diverse employer base (healthcare, education, light industry).	Job market can be competitive for the best union positions.
Low barrier to entry for homeownership.	Nightlife/culture is less vibrant than in Columbus or Cleveland.
Manageable commute times from most neighborhoods.	Industrial jobs are less prevalent than in past decades.
Solid 10-year growth projection (11%).	Summers can be humid, and some older homes have challenging wiring.

Final Recommendation: Akron is an excellent choice for electricians at the mid-career stage (Journeyman level) and those looking to start a family. The combination of a stable wage, low cost of living, and clear paths to homeownership is compelling. It's not a city for high-flying, rapid career advancement to the top of a corporate ladder, but it's perfect for building a solid, financially secure life in the trades. If you're a skilled, reliable electrician, you'll find work and you'll be able to afford a comfortable life here.

FAQs

1. Is it better to join the union (IBEW) in Akron?
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW Local 351) is strong in Akron, offering higher wages, better benefits, and structured training. Non-union shops can be more flexible and may hire faster. For long-term career stability and retirement, the union is often the better choice. Wages for union journeymen can be $35+/hour, significantly above the median.

2. What is the weather like for an electrician?
Akron has four distinct seasons. Work can be year-round, but outdoor work (new construction, street lighting) slows in the winter. Indoor work (renovations, healthcare) is consistent. Summers are warm and humid (80s), winters are cold with snow (20s-30s). You'll need layers and a reliable vehicle.

3. How competitive is the apprenticeship program?
Very. The OEJATC (union) program is highly competitive, often with a waitlist. You need a good aptitude test score and a strong interview. Non-union apprenticeships through ABC are more accessible. Persistence is key—apply to multiple programs.

4. Can I start my own electrical business in Akron?
Yes, but you must be a licensed Master Electrician with a business license. The market is competitive, but there's always demand for small residential jobs and service calls. Networking with local contractors and realtors is crucial. Initial costs for tools, a van, and insurance can be $15,000-$30,000.

5. What's the biggest hidden cost of living in Akron?
While rent is low, car ownership is non-negotiable. Public transit is limited. You'll need to budget for a reliable vehicle, insurance, gas, and maintenance. Winter tires and occasional battery replacements are real costs. Also, heating bills can spike in January and February.