Across U.S. metros, electrical lineworkers typically earn $32,805 more a year than ironworkers (51%). In the 130 metros where BLS publishes both, electrical lineworkers earn more in 128 and ironworkers in 2.
| Electrical Lineworker | Ironworker | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $96,805 | $64,000 |
| Lowest metro median | $59,530 | $31,480 |
| Highest metro median | $157,620 | $120,840 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.3% | +3.1% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 10,900 | 5,900 |
| 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 | 131 |
| Metros with pay data | 260 | 155 |
On safety, electrical lineworkers report more injuries that cause missed work (177 vs. 131 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 ironworkers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where ironworkers 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.
Ironworker
Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
Compare one trade across two cities →