In short
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers earned a median $109,910 a year in May 2025, about $53 an hour, according to BLS. The bottom 10 percent earned under $59,270 and the top 10 percent over $158,890. That makes it one of the best paid trades, though it is small, with about 23,790 workers.
Yearly wages for elevator and escalator installers and repairers across the U.S., BLS OEWS, May 2025. Hourly figures divide by 2,080 hours, so overtime is not counted. New apprentices usually sit near or below the bottom-quarter line.
| Middle pay | $109,910 a year, roughly $52.84 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 24,700 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 5.7% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 1,900, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Why elevator pay is high
- Long training: about four years of apprenticeship
- Safety critical work with a small, skilled workforce
- Strong union presence and negotiated wages
- Licensing in many states
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Straight answers
How much do elevator mechanics make an hour?
The median works out to about $53 an hour.
Do elevator apprentices make good money?
Apprentices earn a percentage of the mechanic rate, which is high to begin with.
Is it hard to become an elevator mechanic?
Yes. Openings are few and competition is strong.