Side-by-side comparison of salary, skills, and career outlook for Licensed Electrician and Licensed Plumber positions in 2026.
Licensed Electricians earn approximately $2,000 more per year on average.
Highlighted skills are shared between both roles (2 skills in common).
Licensed Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Demand for electricians is surging due to EV charging infrastructure, solar panel installations, and an aging workforce creating a significant skills gap. The trade offers strong job security, above-average pay, and the option to start your own contracting business.
Licensed Plumbers install, repair, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, drainage, and sewage in residential and commercial buildings. The trade is consistently ranked among the most in-demand skilled occupations in the US, with strong wages and recession-resistant job security. Plumbers can advance to master plumber status or start their own contracting businesses.