Across U.S. metros, electrical lineworkers typically earn $48,395 more a year than fence installers (100%). In the 45 metros where BLS publishes both, electrical lineworkers earn more in 45 and fence installers in 0.
| Electrical Lineworker | Fence Installer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $96,805 | $48,410 |
| Lowest metro median | $59,530 | $36,360 |
| Highest metro median | $157,620 | $64,600 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.3% | +5.6% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 10,900 | 2,500 |
| Self-employed | 0% | 21% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | No formal educational credential |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 177 | 118 |
| Metros with pay data | 260 | 51 |
On safety, electrical lineworkers report more injuries that cause missed work (177 vs. 118 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 fence installers the most Our calculation
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.
Fence Installer
Erect and repair fences and fence gates, using hand and power tools.
Compare one trade across two cities →