Electrician in Providence, RI

The Salary Picture: Where Providence Stands

As a local who’s watched the construction and renovation boom ripple from the East Side to Olneyville, I can tell you that electricians are in a strong position in Providence. The city’s aging housing stock, coupled with the push for energy-efficient retrofits and commercial development, creates a steady demand for skilled trades. The data backs this up: the median salary for an electrician in the Providence metro area is $61,716/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.67/hour. This is slightly above the national average of $61,550/year, a subtle but meaningful advantage that reflects the region's cost of living and demand. With 572 jobs currently available in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 11%, the market is stable and expanding.

To understand where you might land within that median, let’s break it down by experience level. These are realistic estimates based on local union scale reports, non-union company postings, and conversations with contractors in the area.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate	Typical Local Roles
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$45,000 - $52,000	$21.63 - $25.00	Apprentice, Helper, Residential Rough-In
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	$60,000 - $72,000	$28.85 - $34.62	Journeyman Electrician, Service Tech
Senior-Level (8-15 yrs)	$75,000 - $90,000	$36.06 - $43.27	Lead Technician, Project Supervisor, Foreman
Expert (15+ yrs)	$95,000+	$45.67+	Master Electrician, Business Owner, Specialty Consultant

Providence’s salary is competitive when you look at other Rhode Island cities, but the cost of living varies. Providence is the economic hub, so salaries are highest, but commute from surrounding areas can be a trade-off.

City	Median Salary (Electrician)	Cost of Living Index*	Key Industries
Providence (Metro)	$61,716	100.9	Healthcare, Higher Ed, Commercial
Warwick	$59,500	102.3	Aerospace, Defense, Retail
Cranston	$58,800	101.5	Government, Education, Manufacturing
Pawtucket	$58,200	98.7	Manufacturing, Art & Design
Newport	$60,100	115.2	Tourism, Defense, Marine

*Cost of Living Index is a composite measure; higher than 100 is above the national average.

Insider Tip: The union (IBEW Local 99) holds significant sway in the region, especially on large commercial and institutional projects. Their scale for journeyman electricians often starts above the non-union median, and their benefits package (healthcare, pension) is a major draw. For residential work, non-union shops are more common, but wages can still be competitive, especially with specialized skills like solar or smart home integration.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. A median salary of $61,716 looks good on paper, but in Providence, where the average 1-bedroom rent is $1,398/month, your take-home pay is what matters. Applying standard deductions for federal tax, state tax (Rhode Island has a progressive income tax), and FICA (Social Security and Medicare), your monthly take-home pay is approximately $3,850.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a single electrician living in Providence:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,850	After taxes/deductions on $61,716 salary
Rent (1BR)	$1,398	Average for a decent apartment in a safe area
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$180	Higher in winter due to heating costs
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Essential for commuting to job sites
Groceries & Household	$400
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket)	$200	Deductibles/co-pays, even with insurance
Discretionary/Savings	$1,272	For student loans, entertainment, savings

Can you afford to buy a home? It’s a challenge but possible. The median home price in Providence is around $350,000. With a $61,716 salary, a 20% down payment ($70,000) is a significant hurdle. However, many electricians in the area use FHA or VA loans (if eligible) with lower down payments. With a strong credit score and a manageable debt-to-income ratio, a monthly mortgage payment of $1,800-$2,200 (including taxes and insurance) could be within reach. Many electricians I know start by buying a multi-family property, living in one unit, and renting the other to offset the mortgage—a classic Rhode Island strategy.

Insider Tip: The cost of living index of 100.9 is just slightly above the national average. The real pressure points are housing and car expenses. If you can secure a job that offers a company vehicle or a strong transit allowance, your budget flexibility increases dramatically.

Where the Jobs Are: Providence's Major Employers

Providence’s job market for electricians is diverse, spanning large-scale construction, maintenance, and specialized services. Here are the key players:

1. Gilbane Building Company: A national giant with a massive regional office in Providence. They handle major projects for Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, and commercial builds. They hire electricians for both new construction and renovation projects. Hiring trends favor journeyman with OSHA 30 and experience with complex systems like nurse call and fire alarm.

2. Rhode Island Hospital / Lifespan Health System: As one of the state’s largest employers, their facilities department is always looking for skilled electricians for facility maintenance, medical gas systems, and new equipment installations. The work is steady, unionized (in many cases), and offers excellent benefits. They often post openings on their internal career site.

3. Brown University: Another massive employer with a constant need for electricians to maintain its historic and modern buildings. The work ranges from wiring dormitories to upgrading lab spaces in biomedical research buildings. The pace is steady, and the benefits are top-tier. Often outsourced to contractors like Gilbane but also has an in-house team.

4. EMCOR Group (via local subsidiaries like Heritage Electric): EMCOR is a Fortune 500 company that specializes in electrical and mechanical services. Their Providence operations handle commercial service calls, HVAC controls, and energy management systems. Hiring is frequent for service technicians with troubleshooting skills.

5. Commercial & Industrial Contractors (e.g., J.M. Montgomery, Shaw Electric): These are the backbone of the local trade. They work on everything from the Providence Place Mall renovations to the new industrial parks in the southern part of the state. Hiring is cyclical with the construction season, but they value reliability and a clean driving record.

6. Solar & Renewable Energy Firms (e.g., New England Solar): A growing niche. With state incentives for solar, companies are expanding their installation teams. This is a great path for electricians looking to specialize in a future-proof trade. Pay can be higher due to the technical skill required.

Insider Tip: Many of the best jobs, especially with benefits, are never advertised on public job boards. They’re filled through word-of-mouth or direct contractor relationships. Joining the IBEW Local 99 or even local trade associations can open doors you didn’t know existed.

Getting Licensed in RI

To work legally as a journeyman or master electrician in Rhode Island, you must be licensed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM). It’s a structured process with clear steps and costs.

1. Apprenticeship (4-5 Years):

• Path: The most common route is through the IBEW Local 99’s apprenticeship program (4 years) or a non-union company’s apprenticeship (typically 5 years).
• Cost: You are paid while you learn (starting around $18-22/hour). Union apprentices pay nominal dues; non-union programs are often free, with the employer covering training costs. You’ll need to cover your own tools (budget $800-$1,500 for a quality starter kit).
• Timeline: 4-5 years of on-the-job training (2,000 hours per year) and classroom instruction.

2. Journeyman License:

• Requirements: Complete your apprenticeship (8,000 total hours) and pass the state journeyman exam (based on the National Electrical Code).
• Cost: Exam fee is approximately $150. License fee is around $100. Total: ~$250.
• Timeline: You can sit for the exam as soon as your apprenticeship hours are logged. Processing can take 4-6 weeks.

3. Master Electrician License:

• Requirements: Hold a journeyman license for at least 2 years (or have equivalent experience) and pass the master electrician exam.
• Cost: Exam fee $150, license fee $100. Total: ~$250.
• Timeline: Requires 2 years of documented experience as a journeyman.

State Licensing Board: The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR) and the State Fire Marshal’s Office oversee this. It’s crucial to check their website for the most current forms and exam schedules.

Insider Tip: If you’re coming from another state, you may apply for licensure by reciprocity if your home state has a similar or more stringent licensing process. Contact the OSFM directly to start that process, as it can save you months of time and testing fees.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Where you live affects your commute, rent, and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide to key areas:

1. Olneyville / Valley Street: This is the working-class heart of Providence, with a gritty, industrial vibe. It’s centrally located, making it easy to get to job sites on the East Side, Downtown, or in nearby Cranston. Rent here is a bit below the city average ($1,100 - $1,300 for a 1BR). The commute is excellent via Route 10 or local streets. It’s not fancy, but it’s practical and close to everything.

2. Pawtucket (Just over the line): Technically a separate city, but a 5-10 minute drive to downtown Providence. It has a strong industrial history, so it feels familiar to tradespeople. Rent is significantly lower ($950 - $1,200 for a 1BR). The commute into Providence is straightforward via Route 95 or local roads. A great option for saving money without being too far from the action.

3. Mount Pleasant / Smith Hill: Located on the west side of I-95, this neighborhood is a mix of residential and light industrial. It’s home to many small contractors and warehouses. Rent is very reasonable ($1,000 - $1,250). The commute to downtown is less than 10 minutes. It’s a no-frills neighborhood that’s perfect for someone who prioritizes proximity to work over nightlife.

4. South Providence / Elmwood: A diverse, vibrant neighborhood with a strong community feel. It’s home to Roger Williams Park and the Rhode Island Hospital campus, which means plenty of potential work nearby. Rent is moderate ($1,200 - $1,400). The commute to downtown is easy via Broad Street or I-95. It’s a good balance of affordability and access to services.

5. East Side (College Hill / Fox Point): This is the most desirable and expensive area ($1,600 - $2,000+ for a 1BR). It’s beautiful, walkable, and full of historic homes (which often need electrical upgrades). However, the cost may be high on a single electrician’s salary unless you have a partner or roommates. The commute is easy (most of the city is within 15 minutes), but parking can be a nightmare.

Insider Tip: Many electricians I know live in Pawtucket or Central Falls and commute to Providence. They save hundreds on rent, which they put into their savings or their family’s budget. The commute is minimal, and the trade-off is worth it for many.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The initial salary is just the starting point. Here’s how electricians in Rhode Island can increase their earnings over the long term.

Specialty Premiums:

• Industrial Maintenance: Working in a plant (like the former Hasbro site or new manufacturing facilities) can add $5-$10/hour over standard commercial rates.
• Solar/Photovoltaic (PV) Installation: With RI’s Renewable Energy Growth program, this skill is in high demand. Premiums of $3-$7/hour are common.
• Low-Voltage / Data Communications: Certifications in fire alarm, security, and structured cabling can open doors to commercial and institutional work.
• Controls/Building Automation: This is the high-skill, high-pay path. Working with systems like BACnet or Modbus can lead to six-figure salaries for experts.

Advancement Paths:

1. From Journeymen to Foreman: The first step into management. You’ll be responsible for a crew and project scheduling. Pay increase is typically 10-15%.
2. Project Manager: For those with strong organizational and client-facing skills. Involves more paperwork but a significant pay bump ($85,000-$110,000+).
3. Business Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Starting a small residential or service company in Providence is viable, especially if you build a reputation for reliability. The profit potential is high, but it comes with the risks of business ownership.

10-Year Outlook:
The 11% job growth is robust, outpacing many other trades. The drivers are clear: the need to upgrade the city’s aging electrical grid to support EV charging and renewable energy, the continuous expansion of healthcare and higher education facilities, and the replacement of an aging workforce. Electricians who adapt to green technologies and smart systems will have the most job security and earning power.

Insider Tip: The most valuable electricians are those who can communicate well—both with clients and their crew. Taking a course in basic project management or customer service can set you apart and fast-track you to a leadership role.

The Verdict: Is Providence Right for You?

Providence offers a compelling mix of urban opportunity and New England charm. It’s a city where you can build a solid career as an electrician, but it’s not without its challenges.

Pros	Cons
Strong, diverse job market with 11% projected growth.	Competitive housing market; average rent is $1,398/month.
Salaries above national average, with strong union benefits.	Older housing stock means frequent, sometimes frustrating, stud-finding and box-rewiring jobs.
Central location in New England—easy to access Boston, Hartford, or the coast for day trips.	Winters can be harsh; outdoor work is limited from December to March, though indoor work continues.
Vibrant culture with great food, art, and college-town energy.	Traffic can be congested during rush hour, especially on I-95 and Route 6.
Pathways to homeownership are realistic with the right financial planning.	State bureaucracy can be slow for licensing and permitting processes.

Final Recommendation:
Providence is an excellent choice for electricians who are journeymen or beyond, especially those with a specialty in commercial, industrial, or institutional work. It’s ideal for someone who values a balanced urban lifestyle and is prepared to manage the cost of living. For apprentices, the structured programs (especially IBEW) provide a fantastic foundation, but be prepared for a 4+ year investment before reaching the median salary. If you’re willing to live slightly outside the core city (like Pawtucket) and focus on in-demand skills, you can build a very comfortable life here.

FAQs

1. Is it better to join the union (IBEW Local 99) or go non-union in Providence?
It depends on your priorities. The union offers higher average wages, excellent benefits (pension, annuity, healthcare), and structured pay increases. Non-union work can be more flexible, especially in residential and small commercial sectors, and you might start earning full journeyman wages sooner. For long-term stability and retirement, the union is hard to beat. For entrepreneurial types who want to start their own business, non-union might offer more early freedom.

2. What’s the weather like for an outdoor electrician?
Providence has four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, ideal for outdoor work. Winters are cold and snowy; outdoor work slows dramatically, though it never fully stops (you’ll be doing service calls, remodels, and indoor new construction