Across U.S. metros, elevator installers typically earn $11,445 more a year than electrical lineworkers (12%). In the 50 metros where BLS publishes both, electrical lineworkers earn more in 9 and elevator installers in 41.
| Electrical Lineworker | Elevator Installer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $96,805 | $108,250 |
| Lowest metro median | $59,530 | $38,330 |
| Highest metro median | $157,620 | $173,920 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.3% | +5.7% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 10,900 | 1,900 |
| Self-employed | 0% | — |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Apprenticeship |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 177 | 101 |
| Metros with pay data | 260 | 53 |
On safety, electrical lineworkers report more injuries that cause missed work (177 vs. 101 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where electrical lineworkers out-earn elevator installers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where elevator installers out-earn electrical lineworkers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Electrical Lineworker
Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.
Elevator Installer
Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.
Compare one trade across two cities →