- Get your free consultation and boost your HVAC business now
In the United States in 2025, HVAC professionals earn an average salary of $58,782 per year, with an hourly rate of $28.32, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In 2025, HVAC professionals in the U.S. earn between $49,000 and $84,000 per year, depending on job title, experience, and location. The national average hourly wage is $28.89, though this varies, $26.87 in Ohio and $32.97 in Connecticut. Skilled technicians can earn significantly more, especially with the right certifications. Still, many HVAC workers and business owners are uncertain about fair pay. Some people stay in low-paying jobs. Others worry they are charging clients too little. Newcomers often begin the trade without clear ideas about income.
HVAC is a skilled trade. It provides essential heating and cooling systems for homes, businesses, and industries. Most roles require hands-on work, licensing, and technical certifications.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says HVAC jobs will grow 6% by 2032. This is faster than the average for all jobs. This demand directly affects salaries, career stability, and income potential.
In addition to labor demand, wages vary based on geography, unionization, and job role. This context helps explain why salaries differ across states and job types.
An HVAC technician installs, repairs, and maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in homes and buildings.
Their job includes working on furnaces, air conditioners, ductwork, thermostats, and refrigerant systems. Some specialize in installation, while others focus on service and repair. Many handle emergency calls, routine maintenance, or system upgrades.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 90% of HVAC techs work full-time, and many work overtime during busy seasons. The role needs hands-on skills and safety knowledge. Certification training is required, but a college degree isn’t always necessary.
By 2025, HVAC techs will likely be in high demand. This is due to the need for energy-efficient systems and old infrastructure. Most states will feel this demand.
Yes, HVAC is a good career in 2025 due to strong job demand, steady pay growth, and ongoing industry expansion.
A report from the U.S. Department of Labor in January 2025 shows a projected job growth of 6% over the next 10 years for HVAC techs—faster than average. Residential and commercial buildings both require skilled technicians to keep systems running efficiently.
Also, HVAC offers solid income without a four-year degree. Many workers start making money after trade school or apprenticeships. There’s room for growth, whether you want to specialize or start your own company.
Climate systems are vital. So, HVAC stays strong during recessions and is steady all year, especially in places with extreme temperatures.
Becoming an HVAC technician is worth it if you’re looking for a hands-on, high-demand job with strong income potential.
HVAC training programs grew by 11% since 2022, based on 2025 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. This shows rising interest in trades. At the same time, the average student debt for tech school graduates is nearly 70% lower than that of four-year college grads.
HVAC is a smart career option. It features quick education paths, plenty of job opportunities, and strong wages. If you enjoy mechanical work and solving problems, this field is a great fit for you.
Many workers also value long-term security and good benefits. They see chances to move up to better-paying jobs or even start their own service companies.
The HVAC job market is growing steadily, with demand expected to increase by 6% between 2024 and 2034.
This projection comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2025 Occupational Outlook Handbook. The growth is driven by more new construction, older systems needing upgrades, and a national push for energy-efficient technology.
Also, many older techs are retiring. That opens more entry-level and mid-level positions across the country. Technicians who learn about smart systems, automation, or green HVAC tech will have a competitive edge.
In short, the job outlook is not only stable—it’s improving.
The U.S. HVAC industry is expected to generate significant revenue. The U.S. HVAC services market will generate an estimated revenue of USD 26.9 billion in 2024, growing to USD 32.9 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 3.4%.
Additionally, the overall U.S. HVAC services market is projected to reach $35.714.5 million by 2030, growing at a 3.1% CAGR between 2020 and 2030.
The U.S. HVAC systems market was valued at USD 32.46 billion in 2024. It is expected to reach USD 49.70 billion by 2030. This growth represents a CAGR of 7.4% between 2024 and 2030.
The average salary for an HVAC technician in the U.S. in 2025 is $58,782 per year, or about $28.26 per hour. However, this can differ based on experience, location, and specialization. For example, in California, the annual salary is approximately $57,000, with an hourly wage of $27.40. Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the average hourly rate is $28.33. On average, HVAC technicians across the U.S. earn $62,394 annually, or about $30 per hour.
Entry-level technicians might start around $30,000 to $52,000, while experienced technicians can earn up to $80,000 or more.
The average HVAC technician salary in 2025 is $59,620 per year.
Most HVAC professionals are technicians. Their salaries range from $45,000 to $59,620 a year. This depends on their experience, location, and specialization. Technicians who specialize in advanced systems, like smart HVAC or green energy technology, tend to earn on the higher end of the spectrum.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technicians have a median salary of $53,000 per year, with the top 10% earning over $80,000 annually.
The average hourly pay for an HVAC technician in the United States as of April 2025 is $28.26. However, the range can vary widely, with some positions paying as low as $13.70 and others as high as $43.03. In certain states, the pay is higher—for example, the average hourly rate is $32.00 in Washington and $32.97 in Connecticut. Experience matters in pay. Technicians with over 10 years earn about $32.83 an hour.
In 2025, HVAC technician monthly pay ranges from $3,160 to $6,165, depending on location, experience, and job title.
In Illinois, a new HVAC Mechanic I with less than one year of experience earns about $4,330 per month. The state average for this role is $4,429 per month.
In the District of Columbia, HVAC techs earn the highest average, bringing in around $6,165 per month.
In New York, entry-level technicians start at about $3,160 per month, one of the lower starting points in the country.
In 2025, the median annual pay for HVAC professionals is about $63,305, though it can vary depending on location and experience. For instance, HVAC technicians in Alaska make a median of $63,305, while in Alabama, the median is closer to $48,453. In the United States, HVAC salaries usually range from $30,000 to over $60,000. This depends on location, skills, and years of experience.
The median salary shows that half of HVAC professionals earn more than $53,000, while half earn less. This provides a clear idea of what most workers in the industry make, regardless of job title. Compared to the national median salary of around $45,000 for all occupations, HVAC professionals enjoy higher pay on average.
The average HVAC technician salary in the United States is $58,782 per year, or $28.26 per hour, as of 2025. However, the salary can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and specialization. The base salary for HVAC technicians typically ranges from $57,871 to $72,963, with an average base salary of $64,965. Total cash compensation can range from $58,208 to $73,703, with an average of $65,450.
The national average hourly wage for an HVAC technician is $24.57, but this can differ a lot by state. For example, Alaska has the highest average hourly wage at $39.48, while Alabama has the lowest at $18.77 per hour.
Entry-level technicians typically earn between $40,000 and $50,000 annually.
Mid-level technicians can earn between $50,000 and $65,000.
Senior HVAC professionals earn upwards of $70,000 annually.
The salary of HVAC professionals varies depending on their job, experience, and location. Here’s a breakdown of the earnings for different HVAC roles in 2025:
HVAC Technician: The average HVAC technician in the U.S. earns $58,782 per year, or about $28.26 per hour. In 2024, the average salary was around $49,500. Technicians with under a year of experience usually earn about $22.47 an hour. In contrast, those with over 10 years of experience make around $32.83 per hour.
HVAC Apprentice: New HVAC workers, like apprentices and helpers, earn less than skilled technicians. This pay gap is larger in residential work than in commercial jobs.
Specialized HVAC Technician: As HVAC technicians gain more experience and certifications, they can work in specialized areas like chiller mechanics or industrial boilers. These professionals can earn much more, with some making up to $150,000 per year.
HVAC Service Technician: HVAC service technicians can earn more by improving their skills in both technical work and customer service. Technicians who focus on both technical training and sales can earn a higher salary, making it a rewarding career path.
As of February 26, 2025, the average hourly pay for an HVAC Installer in the United States is $26.71. The pay range for HVAC Installers varies significantly, with most wages falling between $20.67 (25th percentile) and $31.25 (75th percentile) across the country. In certain areas, such as Chicago, IL, HVAC Installers earn an average of $28 per hour, which is $0.81 (or 3.05%) more than the national average and depending on their location, level of expertise, and certifications.. According to Indeed, the average salary for an HVAC Installer in the U.S. as of March 30, 2025, is $26.96 per hour (U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025).
HVAC maintenance technicians have varying salaries. Their pay depends on experience, skills, and location. The national average entry-level salary for HVAC technicians is $52,300 per year, or $25.14 per hour. Technicians with more experience, at the intermediate level, make around $63,500 annually, or $30.53 per hour. Senior HVAC technicians can earn $74,500 a year, or $35.82 per hour.
However, these numbers can vary greatly depending on location. For example, an entry-level HVAC technician in California might make $57,000 a year, while in Mississippi, the starting salary could be as low as $48,100. Technicians at big companies usually earn a steady salary with benefits. In contrast, independent contractors often make more money per job.
Independent HVAC contractors in the United States earn an average weekly salary of $1,089 as of 2025. The pay can vary significantly, with those in the 75th percentile earning up to $1,576 per week, while those in the 25th percentile earn around $721 weekly.
On an annual basis, the average salary for an HVAC contractor is $61,689. The typical salary range is between $46,998 and $80,124, with most contractors earning between $53,999 and $71,339.
Location also plays a role in salary differences. For example, independent HVAC contractors in Kentville, NS, make an average annual salary of $75,272, which is above the national average.
Self-employed HVAC contractors can often earn more than those working for a company. Some report making anywhere from $600 to $2,000 per day, depending on the work they take on.
Different specializations in the HVAC industry can lead to varied pay. For example:
Licensed HVAC Contractors earn an average annual salary of $122,327, with weekly pay around $2,352.
HVAC Programmers make an annual salary of $82,234, or about $1,581 weekly.
HVAC Designers earn $62,264 annually, which is around $1,197 per week.
HVAC Tab Technicians have an annual salary of $53,572, or $1,030 per week.
General HVAC professionals make an average annual salary of $47,724, with a weekly pay of $917.
The pay for HVAC contractors can differ based on factors like experience, location, and job duties.
HVAC business owners can earn a wide range of salaries depending on factors such as location, business size, and experience. According to a 2025 survey by IBISWorld, the average HVAC business owner earns between $50,000 and $100,000 per year, with some reaching $200,000 or more.
Some owners earn significantly more, with top performers potentially making $250,000 or above. Earnings can differ. They depend on if the owner gets a fixed salary or a percentage of net profit after taxes. This also relies on the company’s legal structure.
The HVAC industry has shown steady growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028. This expansion creates more opportunities for HVAC business owners.
Adding specialized services, like energy-efficient upgrades or smart home systems, can boost revenue and income potential.
Average Income Range: Most HVAC business owners earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually.
Higher Earnings: Top-performing owners can make up to $250,000 or more.
Growth Potential: With industry expansion, opportunities for higher earnings continue to rise.
Earnings also depend on the size and success of the business. Small startups usually start with low income, but established HVAC companies can earn a lot. Business owners typically earn through a mix of salary, profit shares, and bonuses based on the company’s performance.
Successful HVAC owners focus on growing their services. They hire skilled teams. They focus on high-demand areas, such as commercial and specialized heating and cooling systems.
HVAC earnings in 2025 increase steadily with each level of experience, from entry-level roles to senior and leadership positions.
Experience makes a big difference in how much HVAC technicians earn.
The more time you spend in the field, the more you’re likely to make.
Technicians just starting out usually get paid less, but as they learn more, their pay goes up.
Once they pick up real-world skills, get certified, and show they can handle tough jobs, companies start to pay more.
Entry-level HVAC workers in 2025 typically earn between $30,000 and $52,000 a year, with most making around $25 an hour.
This pay is for new technicians who have little or no field experience. Most are fresh out of trade school or starting their first year in a registered apprenticeship. In large cities like New York, starting pay averages closer to $46,840, due to higher demand and living costs.
In the early stage, new techs work under senior team members. Their main tasks are to help with basic repairs, check ductwork, replace filters, and learn to use HVAC tools safely. They’re not expected to do complex work yet.
A 2025 report from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration shows a 9.3% increase in new HVAC hires in the past two years. The highest starting wages are found in states like Alaska, Washington, and New Jersey, where the demand for trained HVAC workers is strong.
Most new techs get raises in 12 to 18 months. This happens, especially if they earn certifications like EPA 608 or NATE. Those credentials help them qualify for more jobs and better pay right away.
Junior HVAC techs in 2025 usually earn between $45,000 and $58,000 a year, depending on location and job duties.
At this stage, most technicians have between 1 to 5 years of experience. They’ve moved beyond basic tasks and now handle full repair calls, basic system installs, and seasonal tune-ups. Employers begin to give them customer-facing tasks. They also allow them to handle solo service routes.
Across the U.S., the average junior tech earns around $45,760 annually, with hourly rates close to $25.14. In places like California, where HVAC demand and cost of living are both higher, the average jumps to $27.79 per hour, or about $57,800 per year.
A technician’s pay at this level often reflects their reliability and work quality. The 2025 HVAC Technician Workforce Report by HVAC Excellence reveals that techs who perform well for two years generally earn a 12% raise from their initial salary.
Salaries for junior techs aren’t the same everywhere. Pay varies based on several factors. These include the city of work, whether they manage homes or commercial buildings, and if they’re with a large company or a small local shop.
The average pay for mid-level HVAC technicians depends on their experience and location.
For HVAC technicians with 0-5 years of experience, the typical pay is around $22 per hour, which adds up to about $45,760 per year. According to data from ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for technicians in the U.S. as of March 31, 2025, is $18.89 an hour, with a pay range from $14.42 to $21.63.
In comparison, mid-level technicians in other fields may earn an average salary of $36,000 per year with an hourly rate of $17.29.
Location plays a big role in salary. In places like California, where living costs are high, technicians can earn more than in other regions.
Senior HVAC technicians earn much higher salaries compared to entry-level or mid-level workers.
In 2025, senior HVAC technicians typically make about $35.82 per hour, which adds up to an annual salary of about $74,500. This amount can vary based on location. For example, in California, senior HVAC techs earn around $75,800 per year, while in Massachusetts, the salary is around $73,300 annually.
In cities like Danbury, Connecticut, and Gaithersburg, Maryland, demand for HVAC services is high. Here, senior HVAC professionals can make over $100,000 a year. Skilled technicians can earn over $100,000 a year. This includes bonuses and other income.
In addition, HVAC professionals with Master HVAC licenses or those in leadership roles can earn up to 25% more than their mid-level peers. The Mechanical Contractors Association of America’s 2025 report shows that senior technicians often handle managerial tasks. This leads to higher earnings for them.
The longer you stay in HVAC, the more you can earn—especially if you grow your skillset, gain licenses, or move into leadership roles.
According to 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, technicians with 10+ years in the field earn 32% more than the national HVAC average. Consistent jobs, quality work, and a good reputation with customers are key to wage increases over time.
Longevity also opens paths beyond fieldwork. Skilled HVAC professionals can take on new roles. They might become business owners, technical trainers, or operations managers. Each of these positions can lead to incomes over six figures.
Staying in the trade pays off. Not just in dollars, but in career stability, independence, and long-term growth.
HVAC technician salaries vary across the U.S. depending on the state and technician experience level. For instance, in Alaska, the average base salary is $46,159, with overall salaries reaching $79,630. In Arizona, the base salary is similar at $46,149, but the average salary is around $49,100. Washington offers an average annual salary of $66,577, while Massachusetts technicians earn an average of $64,198 annually.
The Northeast, like New York and New Jersey, and the West, including California, Oregon, and Washington, pay well. This is because of high demand, especially in cities such as New York City. The Midwest and South, with states like Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and Florida, have moderate salaries. These salaries depend on local economies.
Cost of living and state taxes impact HVAC pay. States with high living costs, such as California and Massachusetts, pay better salaries to help cover these expenses. States with lower living costs usually have lower salaries. However, they provide more affordable housing and better living conditions.
In 2025, some of the highest HVAC salaries are found in Washington, where technicians earn an average of $66,577 per year, with an hourly rate of $32. The District of Columbia follows closely with an annual salary of $66,426, which equals an hourly rate of $31.94.
Other states with good pay for HVAC pros are New York and Massachusetts. In New York, the median salary is $64,310, which is about $30.92 an hour. In Massachusetts, technicians earn an average of $64,198 a year, or $30.86 hourly. Alaska also ranks high, with a median salary of $63,305 for HVAC technicians.
These numbers show the average yearly salaries for HVAC technicians in these states. They highlight areas with higher pay rates in 2025.
In 2025, the lowest HVAC salaries are in southeastern states. Mississippi, Arkansas, West Virginia, and Kentucky have average pay from $42,000 to $48,000 a year.
These states offer lower wages due to reduced living costs and slower market growth for HVAC services. In Mississippi and West Virginia, HVAC techs earn some of the lowest annual salaries in the country, often under $45,000. Arkansas and Kentucky follow closely, with earnings averaging just above $46,000 per year.
Southern states such as Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida also rank lower on the HVAC pay scale. These regions may need a lot of HVAC services because of the climate. However, pay stays low due to competition in the labor market and many contractors available.
Even within this low-earning tier, some variation exists. For instance, Maine reports an average HVAC salary of $55,625, and Nevada averages around $59,097, despite being closer to the bottom nationally. These gaps reflect differences in job density, urban development, and state-level infrastructure investments.
These states may pay less in base salary, but they still offer stable jobs. This is great for entry-level techs or those gaining experience before moving to higher-paying areas.
In 2025, the Northeast and West regions have the highest HVAC salaries. States like California, Washington, Connecticut, and New Jersey pay the most.
The Northeast stands out for its competitive wages and steady job demand. New Jersey has an average HVAC salary of $68,460. In Connecticut, there are about 381 open HVAC jobs. This shows strong hiring trends. These states have busy cities, changing seasons, and higher living costs. These factors help HVAC techs earn better pay.
In the West, wages are also above the national average. California and Washington have great earning potential. Experienced techs in Washington can earn about $77,000 a year. The District of Columbia isn’t in the West, but it has high salaries. Workers here earn about $77,184 a year. This is because of the demand in government buildings and commercial properties.
On the other hand, the Midwest and South tend to pay less overall. For example, Pennsylvania has an hourly average of $25.89. This comes to about $53,840 a year. In contrast, South Carolina and West Virginia make around $47,000 and $44,000 annually, respectively.
To find the best-paying jobs, consider moving to the coasts. The Northeast and West offer better earning potential and more job openings in residential and commercial heating and cooling.
Certifications can significantly impact HVAC technician salaries. According to the National Technical Institute, having relevant certifications can help prove your knowledge and skills, potentially leading to higher salaries. For instance, the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is recognized nationwide and can enhance an HVAC technician’s skill set, acting as a powerful tool in negotiating entry-level salaries.
Additionally, certifications like the EPA 608 certification can also enhance marketability and earning potential. Holding certifications from organizations such as NATE or HVAC Excellence demonstrates a technician’s expertise and commitment to professional development, often resulting in higher salaries
Yes, EPA 608 Certification can increase your HVAC income by 10% to 20%. This certification is required for anyone who works with refrigerants, making it essential for almost every technician. E
PA 608 Certification can indeed boost your income as it is a requirement for technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of equipment containing refrigerants, which are commonly found in HVAC systems and refrigeration units.
This certification is essential for working in the HVAC industry and can give you an edge over other job applicants, potentially leading to higher-paying positions.
For example, a job posting indicates that top HVAC technicians with EPA Universal Certification can earn over $100,000 annually.
Yes, NATE certifications can help you earn more in your HVAC career. This certification shows you have solid technical skills. Employers appreciate this when they offer higher pay.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average HVAC salary in 2023 was $59,620. Technicians with NATE certification often earn more than non-certified workers. The top 10% of HVAC techs made $84,250 or more, and NATE certification can help you reach this income level faster.
Certified techs usually start at higher wages and are more likely to be chosen for promotions or leadership roles. NATE also helps you stand out to employers and customers because it shows you’re trained and tested to meet national standards.
To keep your NATE certification, you must complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years or retake the exam. This helps you stay current with new tools, safety rules, and HVAC systems, keeping your skills sharp and your income growing.
Unionized workers typically earn more than non-union workers, and this trend holds true for HVAC technicians as well. According to a report by the Economic Policy Institute, unionized workers earn, on average, 11.2% more than their non-union counterparts with similar education and experience.
A study by the Center for American Progress found that union households have a median wealth of $338,482. In contrast, nonunion households have a median wealth of $199,948. This significant wealth gap highlights the financial benefits of union membership.
However, it’s important to remember that the wage difference can vary based on several factors, such as industry segment, age, and race. Forbes notes that older workers might see a smaller wage advantage from unions. Also, racial inequities in union wages continue.
So, unionized HVAC workers usually earn more than non-union workers. However, the exact wage gap can vary based on other factors.
Yes, it is possible to earn over $100,000 in the HVAC industry, especially for experienced professionals in high-demand regions.
HVAC professionals can earn six figures, but it often depends on experience, certifications, location, and job role. Senior technicians, supervisors, and experts in areas like HVAC design or energy management often earn $100,000 or more per year. In 2025, industry data reveals that technicians in states such as California, Washington, and New York earn higher salaries. This is mainly due to the higher cost of living in those areas. In these areas, skilled HVAC pros with advanced certifications can earn over $100,000 a year. They often manage big teams or projects.
You can earn six figures in HVAC if you have experience. This is more likely in high-paying areas, especially with advanced certifications and leadership roles.
Not every HVAC technician earns six figures. However, those with specialized skills, lots of experience, and leadership roles can achieve this salary. Technicians working with commercial or industrial HVAC systems in major cities often see higher pay. Technicians who manage projects, run their own businesses, or work for big HVAC companies can earn over $100,000. They can achieve this by taking advantage of incentives and bonuses.
HVAC professionals earning over $120,000 typically work in specialized fields or management positions, and in high-cost regions.
Technicians earning over $120,000 usually have advanced roles. They might be project managers, HVAC engineers, or energy-efficient system specialists.
These experts often handle big commercial or industrial systems. The job’s complexity needs more skill. Also, HVAC business owners or workers in high-cost areas, like New York or California, are more likely to earn six-figure salaries.
Growing your heating and cooling business income involves focusing on skill development, pursuing specialized certifications, and gaining experience in high-demand sectors.
To boost income in the heating and cooling industry, professionals should:
Obtain advanced certifications, such as NATE or EPA certifications.
Look into specialized training in energy management, heating and cooling design, or refrigeration.
Aim for leadership positions or supervisory roles to increase responsibilities and income.
Think about moving to areas with high salaries. These places may have a higher cost of living, but they can offer better pay.
Using these strategies can help technicians boost their earnings in the heating and cooling job market.
Profit margins in the heating and cooling industry can vary considerably between residential and commercial sectors. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:
Residential HVAC: Profit margins for residential HVAC services usually fall between 8% and 40%. Most businesses see margins of 10% to 20%. The Department of Energy report says a 12% profit margin is usually the standard for successful residential HVAC businesses.
Commercial HVAC: Commercial HVAC projects usually have higher profit margins since they are larger and more complex. In many cases, commercial projects can achieve profit margins within the 10% to 20% range, and in certain cases, they can exceed these numbers.
Factors Affecting Profit Margins:
Location: Companies operating in rural areas may benefit from lower operating costs, which can lead to higher profit margins.
Specialization: Focusing on areas like installation, maintenance, or big commercial projects can boost profit margins.
Target Customers: Attracting high-value commercial clients can be hard. Still, these clients often bring in more profit because of their larger projects.
Profit Margin Benchmarks:
Gross Profit Margins: The HVAC industry averages a gross profit margin of 30% to 40%. However, businesses aiming for 50% to 60% gross profit margins can see a higher net profit.
Net Profit Margins: The average net profit margin for HVAC companies is around 8%. Companies can boost their net profit margins two to three times the industry average. They can do this by keeping strong gross margins and managing operational costs well.
In 2025, HVAC technicians make competitive salaries compared to other skilled trades. Their pay depends on experience, location, and certifications.
HVAC technicians are among the better-paid workers in skilled trades. On average, they earn between $58,782 a year, with the chance to earn more as they gain experience. HVAC salaries are similar to those in plumbing and electrical work. However, they can be higher in places with strong demand, like California and the Northeast.
For entry-level technicians, HVAC salaries are about the same as those for plumbers and electricians. However, HVAC technicians with specialized skills or certifications often make more. Over time, HVAC technicians can earn as much or even more than other trades, especially as they move into senior roles or become specialists.
In 2025, HVAC technicians and plumbers have similar salaries, but plumbers generally earn a bit more on average. The national average salary for a plumber is $55,000 per year, while HVAC technicians earn around $$58,782 annually. HVAC technicians can boost their income by working overtime. This can make their earnings competitive with plumbing.
Experienced plumbers can earn as much as $75,000 annually. Similarly, the top 25% of HVAC technicians can earn significant bonuses, boosting their overall income. Salaries in both trades depend on factors like location, experience, and specific roles within each field.
Yes, HVAC work can be as lucrative as, or in some cases, more lucrative than electrician work, depending on various factors such as experience, location, and specialization.
Based on the data, the average salary for an HVAC technician is $50,590 per year, while electricians earn around $60,040 annually. This means electricians generally make more money than HVAC technicians.
However, salaries can vary a lot depending on the state. For example, in Alaska, electricians make about $79,980 per year, HVAC technicians make $70,100, and plumbers earn $85,300. In California, electricians earn $75,870, HVAC technicians earn $61,670, and plumbers make $72,000.
Both HVAC and electrician jobs are expected to grow at a similar rate. HVAC technicians are expected to see a 5% job growth over the next ten years, while electricians are expected to grow by 9%.
Choosing between HVAC and electrical work often depends on what interests you more. Some people enjoy HVAC because it involves solving different problems, while others like electrical work because it’s more focused.
Both careers need certifications and ongoing training, but they can offer good pay and job satisfaction.
Understanding how much HVAC professionals make is a vital factor for anyone considering a career in the industry. HVAC salaries depend on experience, role, and location. Understanding these factors helps both job seekers and business owners make smart choices. This guide shows salary expectations for HVAC technicians, service techs, installers, business owners, and contractors in 2025. We cover different states and experience levels. F
This article explores pay in the HVAC industry. It covers everything from entry-level jobs to top senior roles. Use these insights to find your way to financial success in this field.
Ready to increase your online visibility, attract more local customers, and dominate your market? Click below to schedule a free consultation with our HVAC SEO experts and take your business to the next level!
