Here is a comprehensive career guide for Electricians considering a move to Spokane, Washington.

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The Electrician's Guide to Spokane, WA: Costs, Employers, and Career Growth

As a career analyst with years of tracking Pacific Northwest job markets, I can tell you that Spokane is an interesting beast. It’s a city that sits at the crossroads of the Inland Northwest, offering a lower cost of living than Seattle while still boasting a robust construction and healthcare economy. For an electrician, this translates to steady work, competitive wages relative to the cost of living, and a lifestyle that balances urban amenities with easy access to the outdoors.

This guide cuts through the fluff. We’re looking at real numbers, specific employers in the Spokane Valley and downtown core, and the practical realities of making a life here. Whether you’re a journeyman looking for a change or an apprentice ready to start your career, here’s what you need to know.

The Salary Picture: Where Spokane Stands

Let's start with the hard data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market analysis, the electrical trade in Spokane is stable and pays well for the region. The median salary for electricians here is $61,734/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.68/hour.

It’s important to understand that "median" means half the electricians in the metro area earn more, and half earn less. Experience is the biggest driver of your pay rate. The national average for electricians sits at $61,550/year, meaning Spokane is right on par with the rest of the country, but with a significantly lower cost of living than coastal metros.

Spokane vs. Other Washington Cities (Estimated Medians):

• Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue: ~$95,000+
• Spokane: $61,734
• Yakima: ~$58,000

While the salary ceiling is lower than Seattle, your purchasing power in Spokane is substantially higher. There are currently an estimated 688 electrician jobs in the Spokane metro area, with a 10-year job growth projection of 11%. This growth is driven by ongoing residential development in the suburbs, commercial renovations downtown, and infrastructure upgrades for the region's growing healthcare sector.

Experience-Level Earnings Breakdown

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your credentials and time in the trade. These figures are extrapolated from local union (IBEW Local 73) scales and non-union market rates.

Experience Level	Typical Title	Annual Salary Range	Hourly Rate Range
Entry-Level	Apprentice (1st Year)	$38,000 - $45,000	$18.25 - $21.63
Mid-Level	Journeyman (4-6 Years)	$55,000 - $70,000	$26.44 - $33.65
Senior-Level	Master / Foreman	$75,000 - $95,000+	$36.05 - $45.67
Expert/Specialist	Controls Tech / Estimator	$85,000 - $110,000+	$40.86 - $52.88

Insider Tip: The jump from Journeyman to Master Electrician is where the pay increases significantly. In Washington, you need 4,000 hours of work as a Journeyman plus passing the Master exam before you can pull permits as a contractor or take on a high-level supervisory role. Many electricians in Spokane take this route to start their own small-scale residential outfits, which is a lucrative path given the city's constant housing turnover.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Salary is just a number; what matters is what you keep. Spokane’s cost of living index is 101.0, which is just 1% higher than the national average (100). This is remarkably stable compared to Washington’s coastal cities, where the index often exceeds 150.

Let's run the numbers for a mid-career Journeyman Electrician earning the median salary of $61,734/year.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Earner, No Dependents)

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay (Monthly)	$5,144	$61,734 / 12
Taxes (Federal + FICA + State)	~$1,100	WA has no state income tax, but FICA is 7.65%. Federal varies.
Net Take-Home Pay	~$4,044	This is a conservative estimate.
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,012	Metro average.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water/Internet)	$250	Varies by season (heating costs in winter).
Car Payment & Insurance	$400	Essential in Spokane; public transit is limited.
Groceries & Food	$450
Health Insurance (Employer Share)	$200	Deductibles vary.
Misc / Savings / Entertainment	$1,732	Remaining

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Yes, absolutely. With a remaining monthly surplus of over $1,700 in this budget, a single electrician earning the median wage is in a strong position to save for a down payment.

The median home price in Spokane is approximately $375,000. A 20% down payment is $75,000. At a savings rate of $1,000/month, that’s about 6 years to save—but many electricians save aggressively by picking up overtime or side jobs (which are common in the summer). With interest rates fluctuating, a monthly mortgage payment on a $300,000 loan (after a $75k down payment) might be around $1,800-$2,000, which is manageable on a $61,734 salary, especially with a dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Spokane's Major Employers

Spokane’s job market for electricians is diverse. It’s not just about new construction; maintenance and retrofit work are huge, especially in the healthcare and education sectors.

1. Avista Utilities: The region's primary power provider. They hire electricians for line work, substations, and metering. It’s stable, unionized work with excellent benefits. They often have apprenticeships specifically for utility work.
2. Interstate Electrical Services: A major commercial and industrial contractor based in Spokane Valley. They handle large projects for data centers, hospitals, and schools. They are known for investing in apprentice training.
3. McKinstry: A Pacific Northwest giant in construction and facility services. Their Spokane office focuses heavily on retro-commissioning and energy efficiency—getting older buildings (like those on the South Hill) up to modern standards. This is a growing niche.
4. Boeing (Spokane Operations): While not as large as the Seattle plants, Boeing has significant operations in Spokane (near the airport). They employ electricians for manufacturing support and facility maintenance.
5. Kaiser Permanente / Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center: The healthcare sector is massive here. These hospitals require specialized low-voltage and high-voltage electricians for critical care systems, backup generators, and 24/7 facility operations. The work is complex and pays a premium.
6. Local School Districts (e.g., Spokane Public Schools): School districts hire maintenance electricians for ongoing facility upkeep. It’s a government job with strong pensions and regular hours, ideal for those seeking work-life balance.
7. Siemens Healthineers (formerly Varian Medical Systems): Located in the Spokane Valley, this facility manufactures medical devices. They employ industrial electricians and controls technicians for production line maintenance.

Hiring Trends: There is a noticeable push for "green" electrical work. Rebates from Avista and state programs are driving solar panel installations and EV charger setups in homes and businesses across Spokane County. Specialists in these areas are finding immediate work.

Getting Licensed in WA

Washington State has a clear, regulated path for electricians. It’s managed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).

The Path:

1. Apprentice: You register as an electrical trainee with L&I. You must be enrolled in a state-approved apprenticeship program (like the IBEW/NECA program or a non-union shop's program). You need 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 96 hours of classroom training per year.
2. Journeyman: After 4 years (approx. 8,000 total hours), you apply to take the Journeyman Electrician Exam. It’s a rigorous, open-book test based on the National Electrical Code (NEC).
3. Master Electrician: Requires 4,000 hours of work as a Journeyman and passing the Master exam. This allows you to pull permits and run your own business.

Costs & Timeline:

• Apprenticeship Tuition: If you go through a union program (IBEW Local 73), it’s often free or very low cost, as it’s funded by industry contributions. Non-union community college programs (like at Spokane Community College) can cost $3,000 - $6,000 for the full program.
• Exam Fees: Approximately $240 for the Journeyman exam.
• Licensing Fees: The initial Journeyman license is roughly $240 (renewed every 3 years).
• Timeline: Expect 4-5 years from apprentice to journeyman status. You can start working as an apprentice immediately upon registration, but you must be under the supervision of a licensed electrician.

Insider Tip: The job market in Spokane is tight for licensed journeymen. If you are already licensed in another state, check Washington’s reciprocity agreements. They have them with many states, but you may still need to take the state-specific laws exam.

Best Neighborhoods for Electricians

Where you live in Spokane dramatically changes your commute and lifestyle. The city is divided by the Spokane River, with distinct vibes in each quadrant.

1. Spokane Valley (East Side)

• Vibe: Suburban, family-friendly, sprawling. This is where a lot of the new residential construction is happening.
• Commute: Easy access to I-90. 15-25 minutes to most job sites.
• Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300 (1BR).
• Best For: Electricians working for residential contractors or in the industrial parks on the Valley floor.

2. South Hill

• Vibe: Established, leafy, historic. Features many older homes (1920s-1950s) that require constant electrical updates and rewiring.
• Commute: 10-20 minutes to downtown. Traffic can bottleneck on Maple Street.
• Rent Estimate: $1,050 - $1,250 (1BR).
• Best For: Electricians specializing in residential renovation or those who prefer a quieter, established neighborhood.

3. Downtown / Perry District

• Vibe: Urban, walkable, trendy. Lots of mixed-use buildings and restaurant renovations.
• Commute: Walk or bike if you work downtown. Short drive to the industrial areas.
• Rent Estimate: $1,200 - $1,500 (1BR, newer apartments).
• Best For: Young journeymen who want nightlife and a short commute. Ideal for commercial electricians working on downtown remodels.

4. North Side (Near the Indian Trail area)

• Vibe: Quiet, close to Riverside State Park. Mix of older homes and newer subdivisions.
• Commute: 15 minutes to downtown, 20 to Spokane Valley.
• Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,150 (1BR).
• Best For: Those who want outdoor access immediately after work. A bit more remote, but rents can be slightly lower.

5. Liberty Lake

• Vibe: Upscale, master-planned community. Very safe, excellent schools.
• Commute: 20-30 minutes to Spokane (against traffic usually). Direct access to I-90.
• Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,600 (1BR).
• Best For: Senior electricians with families or those earning a higher wage who want premium amenities.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Spokane is a great place to build a career if you have a plan. The 10-year outlook is positive, but specialization is key to beating the median salary.

Specialty Premiums:

• Low Voltage / Data: +10-15% over standard journeyman rate. Crucial for hospitals and schools.
• Solar / Renewables: +10-20%. Demand is high due to state incentives.
• Industrial Controls / PLC: +20-30%. This is the highest-paid non-management role. Siemens and Avista pay top dollar for these skills.
• Fire Alarm / Life Safety: +15%. Required by code in all commercial buildings; requires additional certification.

Advancement Paths:

1. Foreman -> Superintendent: You’ll manage crews for large contractors like McKinstry or Interstate Electrical. Pay can exceed $100,000.
2. Estimator: Move off the tools and into the office. You’ll bid on projects. Requires strong math and computer skills.
3. Business Owner: Washington makes it relatively straightforward to start an LLC. With a Master License, you can focus on niche residential work (EV chargers, smart homes) or small commercial service calls. The overhead is lower in Spokane than in Seattle.

10-Year Outlook: With 11% job growth projected, the market will remain favorable. The biggest threat is a potential slowdown in the national housing market, which would affect residential contractors. However, the strength of the healthcare and education sectors in Spokane provides a buffer. Commercial and industrial work will likely remain steady.

The Verdict: Is Spokane Right for You?

Spokane isn't a boomtown like Seattle was ten years ago, but it offers a sustainable, high-quality life for tradespeople. It’s a city for electricians who value stability, affordability, and a direct line to nature.

Pros and Cons Table

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here.	Winters are Gray and Cold: Long, dark winters can be tough for some.
Steady Job Market: Diverse employers from healthcare to utilities.	Car Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable vehicle is a must.
Outdoor Access: Hiking, skiing, and lakes are 20 minutes away.	Competitive Union Entry: IBEW Local 73 is desirable; getting in can be competitive.
No State Income Tax: Keeps your take-home pay higher.	Limited Nightlife: Compared to larger metros, the arts/dining scene is smaller.
Manageable Traffic: Rush hour exists but is mild.	Summer Heat: Temperatures can exceed 95°F, making attic work brutal.

Final Recommendation:
If you are a licensed Journeyman looking to buy a home, start a family, or simply slow down the pace of life without sacrificing your career, Spokane is an excellent choice. The salary of $61,734 affords a comfortable lifestyle here. If you are an apprentice, the training opportunities are solid, and the path to a journeyman license is clear. However, if you are chasing the absolute highest earnings potential in the electrical trade, Seattle or the oil fields of North Dakota remain the top earners, albeit at a much higher cost of living.

For the balanced life, Spokane wins.

FAQs

1. Is the union strong in Spokane?
Yes. IBEW Local 73 covers eastern Washington and northern Idaho. They have a strong presence with Avista and major commercial contractors. Union wages are generally at the high end of the scale, and the benefits package (healthcare, pension) is superior to most non-union shops.

2. How is the weather for outdoor work?
You’ll work year-round, but the season dictates the job. Summer is busy with new construction and outdoor projects. Winter is focused on indoor remodels, commercial service calls, and industrial maintenance. Snow can delay jobs, but typically not for long periods.

3. Do I need to know the NEC?
Absolutely. Washington adopts the NEC with state amendments. The journeyman exam is based entirely on the code. You must be proficient in navigating the NEC handbook.

4. Are there side jobs available?
Yes, plenty. Homeowners in Spokane are constantly looking for licensed electricians for small jobs like installing ceiling fans, adding outlets, or troubleshooting. Many electricians build a steady stream of weekend work, which can add $5,000 - $15,000 annually to their income.

5. What’s the biggest challenge for new electricians in Spokane?
Getting your foot in the door with a reputable company. The market is competitive, but not desperate. Start by applying to the IBEW apprenticeship or reaching out to mid-sized residential contractors in the Spokane Valley. Persistence is key.