Electrician in Rexburg, ID

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Electricians considering a move to Rexburg, Idaho.

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The Salary Picture: Where Rexburg Stands

Living and working as an electrician in Rexburg offers a unique financial picture. It’s a market that balances competitive local wages with a cost of living that remains below the national average. Understanding this balance is key to planning your career here.

The median salary for an electrician in Rexburg is $60,903 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $29.28. This figure sits just slightly below the national average for electricians, which is $61,550 per year. The slight difference is common for smaller metropolitan areas, but it’s offset by the significantly lower cost of living. The local economy has a solid foundation for trades, with the Rexburg metro area supporting approximately 118 electrician jobs. Looking forward, the 10-year job growth projection for the area is 11%, indicating stable, sustained demand for skilled electricians, driven by new residential developments and commercial upgrades.

To better understand where you might fit financially, here’s a breakdown of salary expectations based on experience level. These are common ranges observed in the local Idaho market and reflect the progression from apprentice to master.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Trade	Estimated Salary Range (Rexburg)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$42,000 - $52,000/year	Assisting journeymen, material handling, basic conduit bending, residential rough-in.
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$55,000 - $72,000/year	Leading small jobs, complex residential/commercial wiring, interpreting blueprints, code compliance.
Senior	8-15 years	$70,000 - $85,000/year	Project management, specialized systems (HVAC, data), mentoring apprentices, permitting.
Expert	15+ years	$85,000+ (often with profit-share)	Master electrician/owner, large-scale commercial/industrial projects, business development.

When comparing Rexburg to other Idaho cities, the dynamic shifts. While Rexburg’s median salary is competitive for the region, it trails the state’s larger commercial hubs. For instance, electricians in Boise and the surrounding Treasure Valley often command higher wages, typically in the $66,000 - $72,000 median range, due to a higher volume of large-scale commercial and tech-driven construction. However, the trade-off is a cost of living that is 15-20% higher. In a city like Pocatello, salaries are more comparable to Rexburg, but the job market is smaller and more focused on education and light industry. Rexburg’s niche is its steady growth, anchored by BYU-Idaho and a thriving agricultural economy, which creates consistent demand for residential and light commercial work.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning $60,903 annually in Rexburg affords a comfortable lifestyle, but it’s essential to budget realistically. Let’s break down the monthly finances for a single electrician earning the median wage.

Assumptions:

• Gross Monthly Income: $60,903 / 12 = $5,075
• Taxes (Federal, FICA, State ID): ~22% (varies by filing status) = ~$1,117
• Net Monthly Income: $3,958
• Average 1-BR Rent in Rexburg: $1,109/month

Sample Monthly Budget Breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Housing (1-BR Apt)	$1,109	City average; older buildings can be found under $1,000.
Utilities	$250	Includes power, gas, water, trash. Winter heating can push this higher.
Groceries	$400	Comparable to national averages. Local options include Smith's, Ridley's, and Walmart.
Transportation	$350	Assumes a car payment, gas, and insurance. Public transit is limited.
Insurance (Health, etc.)	$300	Varies widely; often part of union/employer packages.
Savings/Retirement	$500	Aim for 10-15% of take-home; local credit unions offer good rates.
Discretionary	$1,049	Covers entertainment, dining, personal care, and travel.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. The median home price in Rexburg is approximately $340,000. With a $60,903 salary, a 20% down payment ($68,000) is substantial but achievable over several years of saving. A more common approach is an FHA loan with a 3.5% down payment (~$11,900). At current interest rates, a monthly mortgage payment would be roughly $1,600-$1,800 (including taxes and insurance). This is manageable on a single income, especially if you secure a position with a higher salary band or have a dual income. Many local electricians opt for purchasing older homes in neighborhoods like Rigby or Teton County, where prices can be slightly lower, and then updating them over time.

Where the Jobs Are: Rexburg's Major Employers

The job market for electricians in Rexburg is stable but not as vast as in larger cities. The key is targeting the right sectors. The primary drivers are residential construction, institutional projects (BYU-Idaho), and agricultural/commercial maintenance.

1. BYU-Idaho (BYUI): As the city's largest employer, BYUI is a constant source of work. The university’s facilities department employs in-house electricians for ongoing maintenance, classroom upgrades, and new building projects (like the latest dorm or academic building). These positions are highly sought after for their benefits and job security. Hiring is typical for experienced journeymen and master electricians.

2. Portneuf Medical Center (Rexburg Campus): While the main hospital is in Pocatello, Rexburg has a significant medical clinic and urgent care presence. These facilities require specialized, low-voltage, and backup power systems, creating demand for electricians with healthcare experience. Maintenance contracts are often farmed out to local electrical contractors.

3. Local Construction & Development Firms: Companies like Ridley’s Family Markets (which has its own construction arm for store renovations and new builds) and M&R Construction are major players. With Rexburg’s residential growth, developers like Bullock Realty & Construction are consistently building single-family homes and small apartment complexes, creating a steady stream of rough-in and finish work.

4. Agricultural Sector: Eastern Idaho’s agricultural economy relies on irrigation, cold storage, and processing plants. Companies like Idahoan Foods (potato products) and various local dairy operations need electricians for equipment maintenance, motor controls, and facility wiring. This work often requires a higher skill set and can offer premium pay.

5. Electrical Contractors: The most direct path to employment. Companies such as C&L Electric, Rexburg Electric, and Teton Electric are the primary local contractors. They handle everything from new home construction to service calls and commercial projects. Hiring trends here are directly tied to the construction cycle; spring and summer are the busiest hiring periods. Insider Tip: Many of these shops are small, family-owned businesses. Building a relationship with the owner by stopping in with a resume, rather than just applying online, can make a significant difference.

6. The City of Rexburg & Madison County: Municipal and county governments employ electricians for public works projects—street lighting, traffic signals, water treatment plants, and city buildings. These are stable, unionized positions with great benefits, but openings are rare and often filled internally.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho has a straightforward but strict licensing process managed by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). You cannot work as a journeyman or master electrician without a state license.

State-Specific Requirements & Costs:

• Apprentice Electrician: You must register with the state. There is no exam. The registration fee is approximately $25. You need 8,000 hours of on-the-job training (over 4 years) and must complete 576 hours of classroom instruction from an approved program (like the one at Eastern Idaho Technical College in Idaho Falls, a common destination for Rexburg apprentices).
• Journeyman Electrician: After completing your apprenticeship, you must pass the Idaho Journeyman Electrical Exam. The exam fee is $100. You need to apply for the license, which costs $120. You must have your apprenticeship hours verified by your employer.
• Master Electrician: Requires 12,000 hours as a licensed journeyman and passing the Master Exam (another $100). The license fee is also $120. This is often the path to starting your own contracting business.

Timeline to Get Started:
The entire process from apprentice to licensed journeyman takes a minimum of 4 years. If you are moving to Rexburg from another state with a license, you can apply for reciprocity. Idaho has reciprocity agreements with many states, but you must still meet Idaho’s specific experience and examination requirements. The process can take 2-3 months. Insider Tip: Start gathering your work verification logs and transcripts before you move. The state is thorough, and having documents ready will speed up your application.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Choosing where to live in Rexburg affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. The city is compact, but each area has a distinct feel.

1. Central Rexburg (Downtown/University Area):

   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to any job site in the city. Very walkable/bikeable.
   • Lifestyle: Vibrant, college-town energy. Close to restaurants, coffee shops, and the BYU-Idaho campus. Ideal for younger electricians or those who want to be in the mix.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200/month for a 1-BR. Older apartments and some newer complexes.
   • Best For: Those who want minimal commute and easy access to amenities.

2. South Rexburg (Suburban Residential):

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to downtown. Easy access to US-20 for jobs in Idaho Falls or Rigby.
   • Lifestyle: Quieter, family-oriented neighborhoods with newer homes and apartment complexes. Close to parks and schools.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,350/month for a 1-BR or 2-BR apartment.
   • Best For: Young families or electricians preferring a more traditional suburban setting.

3. Rigby (Adjacent Town, 10 mins east):

   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to Rexburg jobs; 25 minutes to Idaho Falls.
   • Lifestyle: Classic small-town America. More affordable housing, a tight-knit community, and less college influence. Home to the "Birthplace of Television."
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,100/month for a 1-BR. Single-family home rentals are also prevalent.
   • Best For: Electricians seeking lower housing costs and a quieter, family-friendly environment. Many work in Rexburg but live here.

4. Teton County (Driggs/Victor, 45 mins away):

   • Commute: Over an hour. Not practical for daily commuting to Rexburg, but relevant for electricians who may work on remote projects or live part-time.
   • Lifestyle: Outdoor paradise. Access to skiing, mountain biking, and Teton views. A hub for tourism and remote work.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,800+/month for a 1-BR (significantly higher due to resort demand).
   • Best For: Electricians who prioritize recreation over commute and may work on freelance or specialty projects.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career trajectory in Rexburg won’t be defined by a massive corporate ladder, but by specialization, reputation, and entrepreneurship.

Specialty Premiums: To move beyond the median salary, consider these specialties which command higher rates in the region:

• Industrial/VFD Work: Experience with Variable Frequency Drives in agriculture or manufacturing can add 10-15% to your pay.
• Low-Voltage & Data: With BYUI’s tech needs, electricians certified in data cabling, security systems, and fire alarms are valuable.
• Solar & Alternative Energy: Eastern Idaho’s sunny climate and state incentives make solar installation a growing niche. This is still emerging but has high growth potential.

Advancement Paths:

1. Foreman to Project Manager: At a local contractor, proving leadership skills can lead to managing crews and larger projects.
2. Master Electrician & Business Owner: The ultimate goal. After gaining experience and a Master’s license, many electricians start their own shops. This is common in Rexburg, where the market supports small, specialized contractors.
3. Institutional Employment: Moving into a facilities role at BYUI or a hospital offers a different path—less fieldwork, more stability, and a strong benefits package.

10-Year Outlook: The 11% job growth is a positive sign, but it won’t be explosive. The demand will be steady, driven by replacing an aging workforce and continued (if modest) residential and commercial development. The biggest opportunity lies in the green energy transition and automation in agriculture. Electricians who position themselves in these areas will be the most in-demand over the next decade.

The Verdict: Is Rexburg Right for You?

Weighing the pros and cons is crucial. Rexburg offers a specific lifestyle that may be perfect for some and a challenge for others.

Pros	Cons
Cost of Living: Far below the national average. Your $60,903 salary stretches significantly.	Limited Market: Fewer large-scale commercial projects compared to Boise. Career ceiling may be lower.
Job Stability: 11% growth and anchored by a university and hospitals provide reliable demand.	Seasonality: Construction can slow in the harsh winter months, affecting contract work.
Quality of Life: Safe, clean, family-friendly with incredible access to outdoor recreation (Teton Valley, Yellowstone).	Social/Political Climate: The strong LDS cultural influence can feel insular if you’re not part of the community.
Community Feel: A "local" reputation matters. Being a reliable electrician can build a strong, word-of-mouth business.	Wage Ceiling: Top-tier salaries are lower than in major metros, even adjusting for cost of living.

Final Recommendation:
Rexburg is an excellent choice for electricians who value stability, a manageable cost of living, and a family-oriented lifestyle. It’s ideal for those in the early-to-mid stages of their career who want to own a home and build a solid reputation. It is less suitable for those seeking rapid career advancement in high-rise commercial construction or a bustling, anonymous city life. For the right person—someone who enjoys the outdoors, a close-knit community, and steady work—Rexburg is a hidden gem for the trades.

FAQs

1. I’m a licensed journeyman from another state. Can I work in Rexburg immediately?
Not immediately. You must apply for licensure through reciprocity with Idaho DOPL. While your license is recognized, you must submit an application, proof of your journeyman status, and may need to provide a letter from your previous state’s licensing board. The process typically takes 2-3 months. Plan to work as an apprentice or helper under a master electrician while your application is processed.

2. How competitive is the job market for non-union electricians?
It’s moderately competitive. The union (IBEW Local 73 serves Eastern Idaho) has a presence, but a majority of electrical work in the Rexburg area is done by open-shop (non-union) contractors. Building a reputation through quality work and networking is often more important than union affiliation here. Most local contractors hire based on skill and reliability.

3. What is the winter work situation like?
Outdoor construction largely shuts down from December through February due to snow and sub-freezing temperatures. However, indoor work continues: remodeling, service calls, and maintenance projects. Many electricians use the slower winter months for continuing education, bidding on spring projects, or taking time off. Having a financial buffer for 2-3 months is prudent, especially for those on contract work.

4. Is there a demand for residential electricians specifically?
Yes, consistently. The Rexburg area sees ongoing residential development and a constant need for remodels, especially in older homes. Master electricians who can handle permitting and inspections for residential projects are in high demand. If you enjoy working directly with homeowners, this is a steady niche.

5. How does the cost of commuting to Idaho Falls for work factor in?
Idaho Falls is a 20-minute drive west on US-20. If you find a higher-paying job there (common for larger commercial projects), the commute is short and straightforward. Many Rexburg residents work in Idaho Falls and make the commute daily. The extra fuel cost is often offset by the higher wages, but you’ll need to factor in 40+ minutes of daily driving time.