Electrician vs Plumber salary
In South Africa, a electrician earns about 2% more than a plumber — $23,972 vs $23,482 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Skilled Trades
Electrician$23,972/yr
- Monthly
- $2,000
- Hourly
- $11
- Range
- $16,419–$33,199
- 10-yr outlook
- +11%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Electrician | Plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $16,419 | $16,083 |
| 25th | $20,198 | $19,783 |
| Median | $23,972 | $23,482 |
| 75th | $28,588 | $28,001 |
| Senior (90th) | $33,199 | $32,521 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Skilled Trades comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a electrician or plumber earn more in South Africa?
- A electrician earns more, at about R 392 000 per year vs R 384 000 for a plumber — roughly 2% (R 8 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A electrician typically earns R 268 500–R 542 900, while a plumber earns R 263 000–R 531 800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a electrician averages about R 32 700 and a plumber about R 32 000.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a electrician earns about R 268 500 while a plumber earns about R 263 000 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a electrician earns about R 542 900 while a plumber earns about R 531 800 per year.
- Are electrician and plumber similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Skilled Trades category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.