Electrician vs Solar Panel Installer: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a electrician or a solar panel installer? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | ⚡ Electrician | ☀️ Solar Panel Installer |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $29/hr | $23/hr |
| Median Annual | $60,300/yr | $47,800/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 11.0% | 22.0% |
| Total Jobs | 738,800 | 41,000 |
| Training Time | 5 years | 2-4 years |
| Top-Paying State | Hawaii ($81,400/yr) | Hawaii ($65,400/yr) |
| Union Rate | $36.50/hr (IBEW) | $28/hr (IBEW) |
Salary Comparison
Solar Panel Installers earn about $18,200/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both electricians and solar panel installers are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
⚡ Choose Electrician if...
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. It's one of the highest-paying trades with strong demand across every state.
Electrician salary data →☀️ Choose Solar Panel Installer if...
Solar installers assemble, set up, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops and ground mounts. The solar industry is growing fast, and experienced installers with electrical knowledge can advance quickly into lead and supervisor roles.
Solar Panel Installer salary data →Training difference: Solar is faster to enter (2-4 yrs vs 5-yr electrician apprenticeship)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Electricians earn a national median of $60,300/yr compared to $47,800/yr for solar panel installers. That's a difference of about $12,500/yr.
Solar Panel Installer jobs are projected to grow at 22.0% over the next decade, compared to 11.0% for electricians.
Solar is faster to enter (2-4 yrs vs 5-yr electrician apprenticeship). Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.