Champaign vs Decatur: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Champaign, IL and Decatur, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Champaign, IL | Decatur, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,447▲ | $82,738 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.25▲ | $39.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,987 | $50,417▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,327 | $73,884▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,951▲ | $106,818 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,951 | $121,543▲ |
| Total Employed | 410▲ | 400 |
Verdict
Champaign, IL offers better overall compensation for electricians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Decatur.
The salary gap between Champaign and Decatur is $19,709 (23.82%). Champaign's median is +58.76% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Champaign spans $58,964,Decatur spans $71,126. Decatur has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced electricians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Champaign ($110,510 effective) pays 18.10% more than Decatur ($93,572 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Champaign if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,447/year)
- ✓Larger job market (410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,510)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,543)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Champaign grew 14.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.9% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Champaign, IL
$87,420 (2019) → $100,320 (2025)
Decatur, IL
$69,320 (2019) → $81,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Champaign, IL
Decatur, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Champaign or Decatur?
What is the hourly rate difference between Champaign and Decatur?
Should I relocate from Champaign to Decatur as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Champaign vs Decatur?
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Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov