Apprentice pay scales are set by the apprenticeship program you’re in (IBEW locals have negotiated scales, non-union programs use market rates), and they vary significantly by geographic area. In IBEW programs, apprentice wages are a percentage of journeyman scale - typically starting at 40-50% of JW scale in year 1 and stepping up 5% per year. In a market where journeymen make $45/hour, a first-year apprentice makes roughly $18-22/hour starting, rising to $35+ in year 5.
Non-union contractor apprentice wages vary more. Some follow similar percentage scales; others pay market rate for entry-level labor with raises tied to skills and licensing milestones. In tight labor markets, smart non-union contractors pay more than the minimum to retain good apprentices.
The full compensation picture: base wage is one component. IBEW programs include pension contributions (often 10-15% of wages contributed by the employer), health insurance, and defined benefits that represent significant total compensation beyond the hourly rate. When evaluating apprenticeship programs and offers, look at total compensation, not just the base wage.