Lancaster vs Reading: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Lancaster, PA and Reading, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lancaster, PA | Reading, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,836 | $76,661▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.17 | $36.86▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,869 | $46,904▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,355 | $59,036▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,167 | $95,166▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,973▲ | $132,582 |
| Total Employed | 1,220▲ | 820 |
Verdict
Lancaster and Reading are closely matched on overall electrician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lancaster and Reading is $11,825 (18.24%). Reading's median is +18.80% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lancaster spans $94,104,Reading spans $85,678. Lancaster has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Reading ($78,983 effective) pays 19.70% more than Lancaster ($65,986 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lancaster if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,973)
- ✓Larger job market (1,220 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Reading if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($76,661/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,983)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Lancaster grew 23.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.2% growth in Reading over the same period.
Lancaster, PA
$51,370 (2019) → $63,490 (2025)
Reading, PA
$56,800 (2019) → $75,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lancaster, PA
Reading, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Lancaster or Reading?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lancaster and Reading?
Should I relocate from Lancaster to Reading as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Lancaster vs Reading?
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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