Electrician in Racine, WI

The Salary Picture: Where Racine Stands

If you're an electrician weighing Racine, WI, as your next career move, let's get right to the numbers. The data paints a clear picture: Racine offers a solid, middle-of-the-road earning potential for licensed electricians, but it's the cost of living that makes the financial picture particularly compelling.

The median salary for electricians in the Racine metro area is $60,626/year, which translates to a very manageable hourly rate of $29.15/hour. It's important to understand this is the median, meaning half of all electricians earn more, and half earn less. When compared to the national average of $61,550/year, Racine sits just slightly below, but the critical difference is the local economic context. With a cost of living index of 95.0 (where the U.S. average is 100), your dollar stretches further here than in most American cities. There are approximately 229 jobs for electricians in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth projection is 11%, which is strong and indicates sustained demand.

To understand where you might fall in this range, it's helpful to break it down by experience level. While exact figures can vary by union affiliation and specialty, the following table provides a realistic estimate based on Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development data and industry standards for the region.

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range in Racine, WI
Entry-Level / Apprentice	0-2 years	$40,000 - $50,000
Mid-Career / Journeyman	3-8 years	$55,000 - $70,000
Senior / Lead Electrician	8-15 years	$68,000 - $85,000
Expert / Master Electrician	15+ years	$80,000 - $100,000+

Comparing to other Wisconsin cities is instructive. Milwaukee, a larger metro, often has higher nominal salaries (median around $65,000), but its cost of living is also higher. Madison, the state capital, can offer salaries closer to the national average but has a very tight housing market. Green Bay and Appleton have similar salary profiles to Racine. Racine's sweet spot is its balance: you earn a competitive wage while enjoying a lower cost of living, especially in housing. The proximity to the Chicago metro also provides a potential ceiling—some Racine-based electricians with a Wisconsin license can take on consulting or specialized projects in northern Illinois, where rates are higher, though this requires navigating two state's licensing systems.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about a monthly budget. With a median salary of $60,626/year, the take-home pay after federal and state taxes (Wisconsin has a progressive income tax system) is approximately $4,200 per month. This is a rough estimate and can vary based on deductions, but it's a solid baseline for planning.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Racine is $842/month. This is a significant figure. Let's break down a monthly budget for a single electrician earning the median wage:

• Gross Monthly Pay: $5,052
• Estimated Take-Home Pay: $4,200
• Rent (1BR Average): $842
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): $200
• Groceries & Household: $400
• Transportation (Car Payment, Gas, Insurance): $450
• Health Insurance (Employer-Sponsored): $200 (varies)
• Retirement & Savings (10-15% of take-home): $420
• Discretionary Spending: $1,688

This leaves a robust $1,688 for discretionary spending, debt repayment, or additional savings. This margin is a key advantage of Racine.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With the median home price in Racine County around $240,000 (as of 2023 data), a 20% down payment is $48,000. Given the healthy surplus in the monthly budget, saving for this goal is feasible within 3-5 years for a disciplined saver. The mortgage payment on a $192,000 loan (30-year fixed at ~6.5%) would be roughly $1,215/month, including taxes and insurance. This is higher than rent but still manageable within the $4,200 take-home, especially if you have a dual income. For a journeyman electrician in their mid-career earning closer to $70,000, buying a home is even more accessible.

Where the Jobs Are: Racine's Major Employers

Racine's job market for electricians is diverse, anchored by its manufacturing legacy and expanding healthcare and institutional sectors. Unlike a tech hub, the demand here is steady, project-based, and often unionized.

1. SC Johnson & Son: Headquartered in Racine, this global consumer products giant is a massive employer. They have a large, in-house facilities team of electricians for their manufacturing and administrative campuses. These are highly sought-after positions offering excellent benefits and stability. Hiring is competitive and often happens through union halls or internal referrals.
2. Racine Unified School District: With over 40 schools, the district maintains a full-time team of electricians for facilities maintenance and new construction projects. These jobs offer the stability of public employment, including a pension and strong benefits.
3. Aurora Medical Center & Ascension Wisconsin: The healthcare sector is a growing source of demand. Hospitals require specialized electricians for life-support systems, backup generators, and critical infrastructure. Both Aurora and Ascension facilities in the area employ or contract electricians for ongoing maintenance and expansion projects.
4. Local Electrical Contractors (Union & Non-Union): Firms like Kohler Power Systems (though headquartered in Kohler, they have a major presence and are a massive contractor for industrial power projects) and local shops like Brady & Sons Electric or Miller Electric are the primary employers for project-based work. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 430 serves southeastern Wisconsin, including Racine, and is a central hub for union jobs. Insider Tip: Getting on with a reputable contractor is often about networking at local trade events or through the IBEW apprenticeship program.
5. City of Racine Public Works: The city employs electricians for street lighting, traffic signals, and public building maintenance. These are municipal jobs with good benefits and job security.
6. Jockey International: This global apparel company has a significant Racine headquarters and distribution center. They employ facilities electricians for their complex.
7. Racine County: The county government employs electricians for its buildings, including the courthouse, jail, and public works facilities.

Hiring Trends: Demand is steady, not explosive. The push for energy efficiency and the integration of smart building technology (BAS - Building Automation Systems) is creating a specialty niche. There's also a constant need for electricians in the skilled trades for ongoing infrastructure maintenance and the occasional new commercial construction project.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin requires electricians to be licensed through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The process is structured and follows a clear apprenticeship path.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Apprenticeship: Complete a state-approved apprenticeship program, which typically involves 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 720 hours of classroom instruction over 4-5 years. You can start without a license under the direct supervision of a licensed electrician.
2. Journeyman License: After completing the apprenticeship, you must pass the Wisconsin Journeyman Electrician exam (based on the National Electrical Code). This allows you to work independently.
3. Master Electrician License: To become a master electrician, you need 4 years of experience as a licensed journeyman and must pass the Master Electrician exam. A master electrician can pull permits and supervise other electricians.

Costs:

• Apprenticeship Tuition: Varies by program. The IBEW apprenticeship is often tuition-free or heavily subsidized, with a commitment to working for union contractors. Private trade school programs can cost $5,000 - $15,000.
• Exam Fees: ~$150 - $250 per exam.
• License Fees: ~$150 - $200 for initial licensing and renewal every 2 years.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Year 1: Enroll in an apprenticeship program. Begin working and earning.
• Years 2-4: Continue apprenticeship. Gain experience and hours.
• Year 4-5: Graduate apprenticeship, pass the journeyman exam, and obtain your license. At this point, you're a qualified, independent electrician in Wisconsin.

Insider Tip: The IBEW Local 430 apprenticeship is highly competitive and prestigious. Apply early. If you're already licensed in another state, Wisconsin has reciprocity agreements with many states, but you'll still need to apply and may need to take the Wisconsin-specific exam. Always check the DSPS website for the most current reciprocity details.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Racine's neighborhoods offer different lifestyles and commute times, which can significantly impact your daily life. Here’s a practical breakdown for a working electrician.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent	Why It's Good for Electricians
Downtown	Urban, walkable, historic. 5-15 min commute to most employers.	$850 - $1,100	Close to major employers like SC Johnson and the courthouse. Great for those who want a vibrant scene with restaurants and Lake Michigan access. Parking can be tight.
Northside	Established residential, quiet, family-oriented. 10-20 min commute.	$750 - $900	More affordable housing. Easy access to I-94 for commuting to Milwaukee for specialized jobs or higher-end contractors. Good for those seeking space and stability.
Westside	Mix of residential and commercial, very central. 5-15 min commute.	$775 - $950	Central to everything: schools, hospitals, and shopping. A practical, no-fuss choice with relatively easy commutes to any major job site in the city.
Mount Pleasant (East of Racine)	Suburban, modern, growing. 15-25 min commute to downtown Racine.	$900 - $1,200	Where many professionals choose to live. Offers newer housing stock, more space, and top-rated schools. Commute is easy via WI-32. Slightly higher rent, but better for raising a family.
Wind Point	Upscale, lakefront, small village feel. 15-25 min commute.	$1,200+	The premium choice. Quieter, scenic, and home to many executives at SC Johnson. Not for early-career electricians, but a potential long-term goal.

Insider Tip: For a journeyman electrician earning the median wage, Mount Pleasant or the Westside offer the best balance of lifestyle, space, and reasonable commute. If you're a new apprentice, Northside will let you build savings fastest.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Racine, career growth for electricians isn't about rapid vertical climbs in a tech-style corporate ladder; it's about building specialization, reputation, and moving into supervisory or business ownership roles.

Specialty Premiums:

• Industrial/High-Voltage: Working on factory machinery and power systems (at SC Johnson or in manufacturing) can command a 10-20% premium over standard residential/commercial work.
• Low-Voltage & Automation: Expertise in fire alarms, security systems, and building automation can add a 5-10% premium and open doors to more niche, less physically demanding work.
• Solar & Renewable Energy: While smaller here than in other states, there is a growing market. Certification as a solar installer can future-proof your career.

Advancement Paths:

1. Foreman/Project Manager: Move from the tools to managing crews and jobs for a contractor. Requires strong communication and organizational skills.
2. Master Electrician & Business Owner: With a master's license, you can start your own electrical contracting business. This is the primary path to significant income growth. Racine's stable market supports small, reputable contractors.
3. In-House Facilities Manager: Leverage your journeyman experience to move into a corporate facilities role (e.g., at SC Johnson or a hospital), managing all building systems. This moves you off the tools to a salary position.

10-Year Outlook: The 11% job growth is promising. The aging infrastructure in Racine's older homes and commercial buildings ensures steady repair and upgrade work. The push for energy efficiency will create demand for audits and retrofits. The key to long-term growth will be diversifying your skills beyond basic wiring to include energy management, smart home integrations, and industrial controls. The local market is not about explosive growth, but about durable, stable opportunity for those who are skilled and reliable.

The Verdict: Is Racine Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong Value: Median salary ($60,626) goes far with a low cost of living and affordable housing.	Limited Ceiling: Salaries are stable but don't reach the peaks found in major coastal metros.
Stable Job Market: Anchored by healthcare, education, and legacy manufacturing. 229 jobs and 11% growth signal security.	Weather: Winters are long, cold, and snowy. Outdoor work is limited for months, shifting focus to indoor/industrial projects.
Diverse Employers: From global corporations (SC Johnson) to public sector jobs (schools, city), offering varied career paths.	Urban Challenges: Like many Rust Belt cities, Racine has pockets of economic distress and some areas with higher crime rates (research specific neighborhoods).
Lake Michigan Access: Quality of life is boosted by the lakefront, parks, and a lower pace of life than Milwaukee/Chicago.	Commute Consideration: While local commutes are short, advancement to higher-paying specialized roles may require commuting to Milwaukee (30-45 mins).

Final Recommendation:
Racine is an excellent choice for electricians who prioritize financial stability, work-life balance, and long-term security. It is particularly well-suited for:

• Journeyman electricians looking to buy a home and start a family without the financial strain of a major metro.
• Apprentices seeking a high-quality union or contractor apprenticeship with a clear path to a licensed career.
• Specialists in industrial or facilities maintenance who want to work for a stable, large employer.

It is less ideal for electricians seeking the absolute highest nominal salary or those who thrive in a fast-paced, constantly evolving tech/startup environment. For the pragmatic tradesperson, Racine offers a compelling, data-backed case where your skills are valued, your paycheck stretches further, and you can build a solid life.

FAQs

1. Do I need an IBEW union membership to work in Racine?
No. While IBEW Local 430 represents a significant portion of the union workforce, there are many reputable non-union contractors in Racine. The key is to get licensed and build a reputation for quality work. Union membership offers structured benefits and pensions, while non-union can offer more flexibility. Both paths are valid and respected.

2. Is the job market competitive for new electricians?
It is competitive for the best positions, especially with top employers like SC Johnson or union contractors. However, there is a consistent need for qualified, licensed electricians. The key is to complete a recognized apprenticeship, get licensed promptly, and network within the local trade community. The 229 jobs in the metro indicate a healthy, albeit not hyper-competitive, market.

3. How does the cost of living really compare to a place like Chicago?
Dramatically in your favor. While a comparable electrician might earn $70,000+ in Chicago, the average rent for a 1BR is over $1,500, and the overall cost of living is 20-30% higher. In Racine, with a $842 average rent and a 95.0 cost of living index, your disposable income and savings rate will almost certainly be higher, even with a slightly lower nominal salary.

4. Can I work as an electrician in Racine with a license from another state?
It depends. Wisconsin has reciprocity with many states, but not all. You must apply through the DSPS and may need to take the Wisconsin electrical exam. It's crucial to contact the DSPS directly with your specific license details to understand the process. Do not assume reciprocity; verify first.

5. What's the biggest challenge for electricians in Racine?
The winters. A significant portion of your work is indoors, but site visits, conduit work, and outdoor installations are severely curtailed from November through March. You need to be prepared for a seasonal shift in work activities and plan your finances accordingly, as overtime may be less predictable in winter months. The reward is the beautiful summers on Lake Michigan.