Columbus vs Indianapolis: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Columbus, IN and Indianapolis, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, IN | Indianapolis, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,359▲ | $66,511 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.11▲ | $31.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,831▲ | $42,492 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,732▲ | $49,201 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,461 | $89,151▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $94,165 | $100,782▲ |
| Total Employed | 290 | 5,390▲ |
Verdict
Columbus and Indianapolis are closely matched on overall electrician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Columbus and Indianapolis is $14,848 (22.32%). Columbus's median is +26.08% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $48,334,Indianapolis spans $58,290. Indianapolis 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, Columbus ($87,480 effective) pays 25.87% more than Indianapolis ($69,502 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,359/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,480)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,782)
- ✓Larger job market (5,390 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Columbus grew 35.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.4% growth in Indianapolis over the same period.
Columbus, IN
$58,940 (2019) → $79,670 (2025)
Indianapolis, IN
$55,940 (2019) → $65,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, IN
Indianapolis, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Columbus or Indianapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Indianapolis?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Indianapolis as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Columbus vs Indianapolis?
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