Electrician in Idaho Falls, ID

The Salary Picture: Where Idaho Falls Stands

As a local, I can tell you that the electrical trade in Idaho Falls is a solid, stable career path. The Bonneville County region has a constant demand for skilled electricians, driven by a mix of residential growth, commercial development, and the massive industrial base surrounding the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The numbers confirm this stability, showing a market that’s competitive yet accessible.

Let’s get straight to the data. The median salary for an Electrician in the Idaho Falls metro area is $59,685/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $28.69/hour. It's important to note that this is slightly below the national average of $61,550/year, a common trend for many skilled trades in more rural or lower-cost-of-living areas. However, the cost of living here makes that salary go much further than it would on the national stage. With 203 jobs currently in the metro and an 11% 10-year job growth projection, the outlook is positive, indicating a healthy demand for new and experienced electricians alike.

To understand where you might fit in, here’s a breakdown of typical salary progression based on experience levels. These are estimates based on local market trends and BLS data, reflecting the journey from apprentice to master.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2 years (Apprentice)	$42,000 - $50,000	$20.19 - $24.04
Mid-Level	3-7 years (Journeyman)	$55,000 - $68,000	$26.44 - $32.69
Senior-Level	8-14 years (Senior/Journeyman)	$65,000 - $78,000	$31.25 - $37.50
Expert/Master	15+ years (Master, Foreman, Contractor)	$75,000 - $95,000+	$36.06 - $45.67+

Insider Tip: The jump from apprentice to journeyman is the most significant pay increase. In Idaho, you can start your apprenticeship through an IBEW union program (Local 463) or a non-union company. The union route often has a structured wage scale and strong benefits, while non-union shops might offer more flexibility and a faster path to small business ownership.

Comparison to Other Idaho Cities:
Idaho Falls is a regional hub, but salaries can vary by city. Here’s how it stacks up against other major Idaho metros for Electricians:

• Boise: Higher median salary (closer to the national average) but significantly higher rent and competitive job market.
• Coeur d'Alene: Similar median to Idaho Falls, but cost of living is rising quickly due to tourism and tech influx.
• Twin Falls: Slightly lower median salary, with a smaller job market.
• Pocatello: Very comparable to Idaho Falls, with a similar cost of living and job demand, largely driven by the university and healthcare sectors.

For an electrician, Idaho Falls offers a "sweet spot" of good pay relative to the affordable cost of living, with a diverse employment base that includes industrial, commercial, and residential work.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $59,685 sounds good on paper, but the real question is what’s left after essentials. Idaho has a flat state income tax rate of 6.5%, and federal taxes apply. A rough estimate for a single filer with no dependents would see an effective tax rate of around 20-25% total. After taxes, a take-home pay might be in the range of $4,000 - $4,400 per month.

Now, let's layer in housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Idaho Falls is $903/month. The Cost of Living Index here is 89.9 (US average = 100), meaning your dollar stretches about 10% further than the national average.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for an electrician earning the median wage:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$4,200	(Post-tax estimate from $59,685 salary)
Rent (1BR)	$903	City average; can be higher in premium areas.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180	Energy costs are reasonable.
Groceries	$350	For one person, shopping at local chains like Albertsons or Smith’s.
Car Payment & Insurance	$400	Assuming a modest car payment and Idaho's generally lower insurance rates.
Fuel	$150	Commuting within the city is short; gas prices are typically below national average.
Health Insurance	$250	Varies widely by employer; this is a rough estimate for a single plan.
Miscellaneous (Food out, Entertainment, etc.)	$500	A moderate budget for personal spending.
Savings/Debt	$1,467	Leftover for savings, student loans, or retirement.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Idaho Falls hovers around $350,000 - $400,000. With the $1,467 monthly surplus shown above, a buyer could comfortably save for a down payment in 1-2 years. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) for a $375,000 home with 10% down would be around $2,100 - $2,300. This would require a household income of around $80,000 - $90,000. A dual-income household, or an electrician in a senior/management role ($75,000+), would find homeownership very attainable. Many local electricians live in single-family homes in neighborhoods like Ammon or South Fork.

Where the Jobs Are: Idaho Falls's Major Employers

The job market here is unique. While residential and commercial work is steady, the industrial and institutional sectors are the heavy hitters. Knowing where to look is key.

1. Idaho National Laboratory (INL): The largest employer in the region. INL requires massive electrical infrastructure for its research labs, data centers, and test facilities. They hire electricians directly and through a network of prime contractors like Battelle Energy Alliance, Jacobs, and Amentum. These jobs often require security clearances but offer top-tier pay and benefits, often exceeding the median salary. Hiring trends are strong due to continued federal investment in nuclear research.

2. Mountain Home Air Force Base (Nearby): While not in Idaho Falls, the base is a major regional employer. Electricians are needed for base housing, facilities, and specialized military infrastructure. Contractors supporting the base often recruit from Idaho Falls.

3. Idaho Falls School District 91 & Bonneville School District 231: Both districts employ electricians for facility maintenance across dozens of schools. These are union (IEA) positions with excellent benefits, pensions, and a stable work schedule (summers off or light duty). Hiring is infrequent but happens due to retirements.

4. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC): The region’s largest hospital needs in-house electricians for medical equipment, backup power systems, and facility upkeep. Healthcare facilities have stringent electrical codes, making this a specialized and well-paid niche.

5. Commercial Contractors (Local & Regional): Companies like D.L. Evans (a major contractor), High Country Electric, and R&R Electric handle everything from new retail builds (like the new developments in the Sunrise Shopping Center area) to office complexes. These firms are always looking for journeyman electricians, especially during the busy construction season (May-October).

6. Residential Home Builders: With growth in neighborhoods like Teton Ranch and Riverstone, builders like Lennar and local custom home companies hire electricians for rough-in and finish work. This work can be seasonal but offers flexibility for those who want to run their own side business.

Insider Tip: The best jobs at INL and the school districts are often posted on the official Idaho State Jobs website and USAJobs.gov. For private sector jobs, Indeed and LinkedIn are active, but networking with local suppliers like WESCO or Crescent Electric can uncover unlisted opportunities.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho has a clear, straightforward licensing process managed by the Idaho Division of Building Safety (DBS). You cannot perform electrical work for hire without a license.

• Apprentice: No state license required, but you must register with the DBS. You need to be employed by a licensed electrical contractor. The apprenticeship is typically 4 years (8,000 hours) and 96 classroom hours.
• Journeyman Electrician: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Idaho State Journeyman Electrician Exam. The exam is based on the current NEC (National Electrical Code) and Idaho amendments. The exam fee is around $150. You need to submit proof of your apprenticeship hours.
• Master Electrician: Requires 4 years as a licensed journeyman and passing the Idaho Master Electrician Exam. Master electricians can pull permits and run their own contracting business. Exam fee is similar.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Month 1: Find an electrical contractor willing to sponsor you as an apprentice. Get registered with the DBS.
2. Years 1-4: Work full-time, log your 8,000 hours, and complete your classroom hours through an approved program (like the Idaho Electrical Training Center).
3. Year 4: Apply to take the Journeyman exam. Schedule and pass the test.
4. Immediately after passing: Receive your Journeyman license and apply for jobs at the median salary level.

Total Estimated Cost: Beyond your initial tools (a few hundred dollars), the main cost is the exam fee ($150). Apprenticeship programs often have minimal or no tuition, as you earn while you learn.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

When you live in Idaho Falls, your commute is negligible. The city is laid out on a grid, and most everything is a 10-15 minute drive. Here are top neighborhoods to consider, balancing lifestyle and cost.

1. Ammon (East Side): This is where many young professionals and families live. It's close to the Bonneville County Courthouse and has excellent schools (Thunder Ridge High). You can find nice 3-bedroom homes for $300k-$400k. Rent for a 2BR is around $1,100-$1,300. Commute to downtown or INL is about 12 minutes. Personal Insight: The area around Hitt Road has great amenities and is very convenient for contractors who need to hit the east side suppliers.

2. South Fork (West Side): A newer, master-planned community with parks, trails, and updated amenities. It's slightly more expensive ($400k+ for homes, $1,300+ for 2BR rent). It's a quiet, family-oriented area about 15 minutes from downtown. Great for electricians who want a newer home and don't mind a short commute to the west side commercial strips.

3. Downtown/River District: For those who want an urban feel. You'll find older, character-filled homes and apartments. Rents can be higher ($1,000+ for a 1BR) and housing prices vary widely. The lifestyle is walkable, with easy access to restaurants and the Idaho Falls River Walk. Best for single electricians or couples without kids who want to be near the action.

4. Sunrise (South Side): A more affordable, established neighborhood. You can find older homes (1970s-80s) that are great for DIY projects. Rents are lower ($800-$950 for a 1BR). It's close to the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration (Fourth of July) and has a community feel. Commute is still under 15 minutes anywhere.

Commute Reality Check: There is no traffic in Idaho Falls. The worst "rush hour" adds maybe 5 minutes to your drive. This is a huge quality-of-life benefit for tradespeople who don't want to waste time in a car.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Idaho Falls, career growth for an electrician can go in several directions, each with its own premium.

• Specialty Pathways:

  • Industrial/High Voltage: Working for INL or large industrial plants. This requires additional training and often pays a 10-20% premium over residential/commercial rates.
  • Low-Voltage/Communications: Data cabling, fire alarms, and security systems. This is a growing field with new tech, but pay can be slightly lower than power electrician work unless you specialize in complex systems.
  • Renewables/Solar: Idaho has a net metering policy, and residential solar is growing. Electricians with solar certification can tap into this niche.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Foreman/Project Manager: Move from the tools to managing a crew. Pay jumps to the $70,000 - $90,000 range. Requires leadership skills and deep technical knowledge.
  • Estimator/Service Manager: For those who prefer office work. This path is common in larger contracting firms.
  • Business Owner: Idaho makes it relatively easy to get a Contractor's License. With 11% job growth, there's room for new small businesses, especially those specializing in residential service calls or niche commercial work.

10-Year Outlook (2023-2033): The 11% growth projection is driven by several factors: continued expansion of INL (federal funding is locked in for a decade), steady residential housing development, and the need to upgrade aging electrical grids. Automation and EV charging infrastructure will create new specialty demands. The key will be staying current with the NEC, which updates every three years. Electricians who pursue continuing education will have the most opportunities.

The Verdict: Is Idaho Falls Right for You?

This is the question only you can answer, but here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons specific to the electrical trade here.

Pros	Cons
High Quality of Life: Safe, family-friendly, low stress.	Lower Salary Ceiling: Compared to coastal cities, top-end pay is capped unless you're a master contractor.
Strong Job Stability: The 11% growth and diverse employer base (INL, schools, hospitals) provide resilience.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: Social life is quiet; it's great for families, less for singles seeking a dynamic city vibe.
Affordable Housing: You can buy a home on a single electrician's salary ($59,685).	Weather: Long, cold winters with snow can be challenging for outdoor work.
Diverse Work Experience: From high-tech labs at INL to custom homes in South Fork.	Remote Location: It's a 2-hour drive to the nearest major city (Boise). Travel can be costly.
No Traffic Commutes: More time for family or hobbies.	Cultural Homogeneity: Less diversity than major metros, which can feel limiting for some.

Final Recommendation:
Idaho Falls is an excellent choice for electricians who prioritize work-life balance, affordability, and long-term job stability over maximum salary potential. If you're a journeyman electrician who wants to buy a house, raise a family, and enjoy outdoor recreation (hiking in the nearby mountains, fishing the Snake River), this is a top-tier location. It's less ideal for someone seeking the highest possible wages or a bustling, diverse cultural scene. For most tradespeople, the trade-off is overwhelmingly positive.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to join the union to get a good job?
A: No. Idaho is a "right-to-work" state. Both union (IBEW Local 463) and non-union shops are strong. The union offers excellent benefits and a clear wage scale, while non-union shops may offer more flexibility and a direct path to business ownership. Many companies are members of the East Idaho Chapter of the Associated General Contractors (AGC), which provides training and networking for all.

Q: How is the work-life balance?
A: Generally excellent. Most residential and commercial electricians work standard 7 am - 4 pm shifts, Monday-Friday. Overtime is common in the summer construction season but not excessive. Shop electricians (school district, hospital) have very predictable schedules. The INL jobs may involve shift work or on-call, but they come with premium pay.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for electricians in Idaho Falls?
A: The winter weather. Outdoor rough-in work can be brutal from December through February. Many electricians focus on indoor service calls or finish work during the coldest months. Having a reliable, heated vehicle is a must.

Q: Is the Idaho electrical code different from the national code?
A: Yes, but only slightly. The state adopts the