Electrician in Cheyenne, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Cheyenne Stands

Let’s get straight to the numbers, because that’s what matters when you’re weighing a move. In Cheyenne, the median salary for an electrician is $59,869/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $28.78/hour. This is slightly below the national average for electricians, which sits at $61,550/year. This isn't uncommon for the Mountain West region, but the context of Cheyenne's low cost of living and specific job market makes it a competitive offer.

Cheyenne’s metro area has approximately 195 jobs for electricians, and the 10-year projected growth for the profession is 11%. This growth rate is driven by a combination of new construction (both residential and commercial) and the ongoing need for maintenance and upgrades in existing infrastructure.

To give you a clearer picture of where you might fall on the pay scale, here’s a breakdown by experience level. Note that these figures are estimates based on local industry standards and the provided median data.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Apprentice work, conduit bending, basic wiring, supervised installations.
Mid-Level (Journeyman, 2-7 years)	$58,000 - $67,000	Most common level. Handles residential/commercial projects independently, code compliance, troubleshooting.
Senior/Lead (8-15 years)	$68,000 - $78,000	Project management, mentoring apprentices, complex systems (e.g., data centers, healthcare facilities).
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$78,000+	Master electrician, consulting, niche specialties (renewables, industrial controls, high-voltage).

How Cheyenne Compares to Other Wyoming Cities:
Cheyenne has the largest job market in the state, but salaries can be competitive with other hubs. Casper, the state's second-largest city, often pays slightly more ($61,000-$62,000 median) due to its oil and gas and industrial base, but the cost of living is also higher. Smaller towns like Laramie (home to the University of Wyoming) or Gillette (energy sector) may offer specialized project work but with a smaller pool of employers. Cheyenne strikes a balance: it's the state capital, a major transportation hub, and home to F.E. Warren Air Force Base, creating a steady demand for skilled electricians across government, commercial, and residential sectors.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $59,869 is a gross figure. Let's break down what that means for your monthly budget in Cheyenne. We'll use 2024 tax estimates (federal, state, and FICA) and the city's average rent.

• Annual Gross Salary: $59,869
• Estimated Annual Take-Home (after ~25% taxes/deductions): ~$44,900
• Monthly Take-Home Pay: ~$3,742

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimated):

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$917	City-wide average. Can range from $750 to $1,150.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$220	Varies seasonally; winter heating costs can spike.
Groceries & Household	$400	Cheyenne has several major grocery chains (King Soopers, Safeway, Walmart).
Transportation (Car Payment, Insurance, Gas)	$500	Essential in Cheyenne; public transit (Cheyenne Transit) is limited.
Health Insurance	$300	Varies widely by employer plan.
Savings & Miscellaneous	$1,405	This is your discretionary income for savings, debt, entertainment, etc.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of Cheyenne's biggest draws. With a take-home of ~$3,742 and rent at $917, your housing costs are a manageable 24.5% of your take-home pay. This leaves significant room for savings toward a down payment.

The median home price in Cheyenne is approximately $300,000-$325,000. A 20% down payment would be $60,000-$65,000. With the savings potential from the budget above, a disciplined electrician could save for this down payment in 5-7 years. A 15-year or 30-year mortgage on a $300,000 home would be roughly $1,500-$2,000 per month (including taxes and insurance), which is still within a reasonable range for a household earning $59,869 or more (especially if combined with a partner's income). Insider Tip: Many local lenders offer first-time homebuyer programs with lower down payment requirements, which can be a great option if saving 20% is a hurdle.

Where the Jobs Are: Cheyenne's Major Employers

Cheyenne's economy is anchored by government, transportation, and a growing healthcare and commercial sector. Electricians are needed for new builds, maintenance, and specialized installations. Here are the key local employers to have on your radar:

1. F.E. Warren Air Force Base (307th Bomb Wing): As a major military installation, the base requires a constant stream of electrical work, from barracks and family housing to secure facilities and infrastructure. Much of this work is contracted out to local electrical firms that specialize in government contracts.
2. Cheyenne Regional Medical Center (CRMC): The largest hospital in the region. Construction and renovation projects are frequent, and the facility requires specialized electricians for low-voltage systems (nurse call, data), backup generators, and strict code compliance in healthcare settings.
3. Laramie County School District #1: With dozens of schools, the district has a large, in-house maintenance team for ongoing electrical repairs and periodic renovation projects. They also contract for larger projects like new school constructions or HVAC upgrades.
4. Wyoming State Government: As the state capital, Cheyenne hosts numerous state agencies, the Wyoming State Capitol complex (a recent major renovation), and other public buildings. The State Engineer's Office and the Buildings Division are significant sources of contracts for licensed electricians.
5. Sierra Trading Post (Now part of TJX Companies): Their massive distribution center in Cheyenne is a key employer. While they may have in-house maintenance staff, construction and expansion projects for this facility drive work for local electrical contractors.
6. Local & National Construction Firms: Companies like T. Wallen Construction, McGraw Hill Construction (regional office), and Hensel Phelps (which has a regional presence) are frequently involved in building commercial, municipal, and federal projects. Insider Tip: Building relationships with these firms' project managers is crucial for steady contract work.
7. Specialty Renewable & Industrial Firms: Companies like Peak Power Systems (solar) and Industrial Electric (mining, agricultural sectors) offer niche work. The renewable energy sector, while smaller than in Colorado, is growing, especially for solar installations on residential and commercial rooftops.

Hiring Trends: Demand is steady. There's a noticeable shortage of licensed journeymen and master electricians, which benefits those with credentials. The push for energy efficiency and smart home/building technology is also creating demand for electricians with additional training in those areas.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming's licensing process is straightforward but requires a clear path. The Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety (DFPES) oversees all electrical licensing.

1. Apprenticeship (4 Years): You must complete a state-approved apprenticeship program. This typically involves 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed electrician and 576 hours of classroom instruction. You can find programs through local unions (IBEW Local 322 in Cheyenne) or non-union apprenticeship groups like the Wyoming Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC).
2. Journeyman License:
   • Requirements: Complete the apprenticeship, pass the Wyoming State Electrical Journeyman Examination (based on the NEC), and submit an application with proof of hours and training.
   • Cost: Exam fee is approximately $100, and the license fee is around $100 annually.
   • Timeline: After completing your 4-year apprenticeship, you can apply for the exam. Once you pass, you receive your license. Total time from starting as a helper to becoming a journeyman: ~4-5 years.
3. Master Electrician License:
   • Requirements: Hold a journeyman license for at least 2,000 hours in the past 5 years and pass the Wyoming Master Electrician Examination.
   • Cost: Exam fee is approximately $100, with an annual license fee of $100.
   • Timeline: You must have at least 4 years of journeyman experience before applying. This is the license needed to pull permits and run your own electrical contracting business.

Insider Tip: The state's website (wyo.gov/dfpes) has all the forms and exam outlines. The exam is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) with Wyoming state amendments. Studying the code is non-negotiable.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Choosing where to live depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here are four areas to consider:

1. South Cheyenne (including the "South Side"):
   • Vibe: Family-oriented, established neighborhoods with larger yards. Close to schools and parks.
   • Commute: Easy access to downtown, F.E. Warren AFB, and the southeast commercial corridors. 10-15 minutes to most job sites.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR/2BR apartment or rental house.
2. East Cheyenne (near the Medical Center/College):
   • Vibe: Mix of older homes and newer apartments. Close to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Laramie County Community College, and shopping centers.
   • Commute: Very central. 5-15 minutes to most of the city's employers.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050 for a 1BR apartment.
3. North Cheyenne (near the Capitol & Downtown):
   • Vibe: Historic, walkable. Features the Capitol complex, historic homes, and a growing downtown dining scene. More apartment options.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to downtown employers, state government, and restaurants. May be slightly farther for industrial work on the south side.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200 for a 1BR apartment (due to location and historic charm).
4. West Cheyenne (near the Airport & I-25):
   • Vibe: More suburban, with newer developments and easy highway access. Close to the Cheyenne Regional Airport.
   • Commute: Excellent for commuting to jobs in neighboring towns or traveling for work. 10-20 minutes to most of Cheyenne.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR apartment.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in Cheyenne offers viable long-term career growth, especially if you specialize.

• Specialty Premiums: Electricians with certifications in HVAC (for the booming data center market), renewable energy (solar, wind), or industrial motor controls can command premiums of 10-20% above the median salary. Master electricians running their own businesses see the highest earning potential, but with greater risk.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Path 1: The Specialist. Become the go-to expert for a specific system (e.g., fire alarm, security, data centers). Leads to higher hourly rates or salaried positions with large firms.
  • Path 2: The Manager. Move into a project manager or estimator role with a construction firm. Requires strong organizational and client skills.
  • Path 3: The Business Owner. Obtain your master electrician license, start your own contracting firm, and bid on residential and commercial projects. This is the highest-risk, highest-reward path.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 11% projected job growth and a steady base of government and institutional work, Cheyenne's market is stable. The key to advancement will be pursuing continuing education in new technologies. The city's growth is slow but steady, meaning there will be consistent demand for both new construction and the maintenance of its aging building stock.

The Verdict: Is Cheyenne Right for You?

Cheyenne offers a unique value proposition: a low cost of living, a steady job market, and a manageable pace of life. It's not a high-growth metropolis, but it provides stability and a clear path to homeownership on an electrician's salary.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living (Index: 90.9) allows a high quality of life.	Low Ceiling for top salaries compared to major coastal cities.
Stable Job Market anchored by government and healthcare.	Limited Nightlife and cultural amenities compared to larger cities.
Path to Homeownership is realistic and relatively quick.	Weather can be harsh, with cold, windy winters.
Easy Commute and minimal traffic congestion.	Isolation – it's a long drive to other major cities (Denver is 2+ hours).
Outdoor Access is fantastic (hiking, hunting, fishing).	Smaller Network for niche electrical specializations.

Final Recommendation: Cheyenne is an excellent choice for electricians who value stability, affordability, and work-life balance. It's ideal for those looking to establish a family, buy a home, and build a solid career without the pressure and cost of a major metro area. It may be less suitable for someone seeking the highest possible salary or a vibrant, fast-paced urban scene. For the right person, it's a fantastic place to live and work.

FAQs

1. Is it hard to find a job as an electrician in Cheyenne?
It's not hard, but it's competitive for the best positions. Having your journeyman license immediately opens doors. The best way to find work is through networking with local contractors, checking the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services job board, and contacting unions like IBEW Local 322.

2. Do I need a union to succeed in Cheyenne?
No. While the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 322 is active and offers excellent training and benefits, many electricians work for non-union companies. Both paths can be successful; it depends on your preference for job security vs. flexibility.

3. What's the cost of living really like?
It's genuinely low. The Cost of Living Index of 90.9 means it's about 9% cheaper than the national average. Groceries, transportation, and housing are all below average. You'll feel your paycheck goes much further here than in places like Denver or Salt Lake City.

4. Are there opportunities for overtime?
Yes, especially in construction and for electricians working for the city or large institutions. Overtime is common during peak building seasons (spring/summer) or for emergency repairs during storms (which are frequent in the high plains).

5. How does the licensing work if I'm already licensed in another state?
Wyong does not have reciprocity with any other state for journeyman or master licenses. If you hold a license from another state, you must apply to take the Wyoming exam and demonstrate your work experience. You cannot work as a journeyman in Wyoming based solely on an out-of-state license. Contact the Wyoming DFPES for the specific application process for out-of-state applicants.