How Much Do HVAC Techs Make?

Becoming an HVAC technician has several advantages, such as a good balance between work and personal life, acquiring practical skills, job stability, and the potential for a decent income throughout one's career.

Now, how much do HVAC techs make?

The salary for HVAC technicians can vary depending on where they work and how much experience they have. People with less than a year of experience make around $22.47 per hour. On the other hand, technicians with over 10 years of experience could earn an average of $32.83 per hour.

This guide provides an overview of HVAC technician salaries, breaks down salaries by city and state, explores how experience affects pay, and compares HVAC salaries to those in different careers.

How much do HVAC technicians earn in each state and with different levels of experience?

On average, HVAC technicians usually make between $46,000 and $68,000 per year, and the amount can vary based on their experience. In 2020, the lowest-earning 10% of HVAC technicians earned about $31,000 annually, while the top 10% earned around $80,000 per year. Looking ahead, the job outlook for HVAC technicians is good, with a projected 5% growth from 2020 to 2030. This growth might even go up more because of the country's focus on making buildings greener and more efficient.

HVAC Technician Salaries in the U.S

Entry-Level HVAC Technicians:

Entry-level HVAC technicians earn an average annual salary of $52,000, with an equivalent average hourly wage of $25. These professionals, typically in the early stages of their careers, play a crucial role in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry. As they gain experience and expertise, their salaries have the potential to increase, reflecting the importance of skill development and hands-on knowledge in this field.

Intermediate HVAC technicians (2-4 years of experience):

HVAC technicians with experience and expertise command an average annual salary of $59,600, translating to an average hourly wage of $28.65. This higher compensation reflects the value placed on their advanced skills and seasoned knowledge in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry. 

Senior HVAC technicians (4-6 years of experience):

Experienced HVAC technicians at the managerial level enjoy a substantial average annual salary of $68,100, with a corresponding average hourly wage of $32.74. This elevated compensation is indicative of their extensive knowledge, leadership capabilities, and the responsibilities that come with managing teams or overseeing complex projects within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning field.

HVAC Supervisors (7 or more years of experience):

The median annual salary for those at the pinnacle of their HVAC careers is $88,600, with a median hourly wage of $42.60. This signifies that top-tier professionals in the HVAC industry, likely possessing significant expertise and possibly occupying leadership roles, are well-compensated for their contributions to the efficient functioning of heating and cooling systems.

Entry-Level Salary Growth:

Fastest Growing:

Ohio: 10.26%

Idaho: 10.26%

Utah: 10.11%

Alabama: 10.09%

Slowest Growing:

Alaska: 4.60%

Florida: 5.74%

National Trend:

Entry-level salaries have increased by 7.44% since January 1, 2022, based on Payscale.com data.

Are HVAC technicians well-paid?

HVAC technicians earn a comparable wage to plumbers ($26.52 per hour) and electricians ($27.01 per hour) on average. However, those with 10+ years of experience in HVAC earn a higher salary than plumbers and electricians with the same experience. Notably, HVAC technicians make significantly more than construction workers, who earn an average of $17.83 per hour.

How to improve your HVAC salary

Here are ways to enhance your chances of earning a higher HVAC salary:

Obtain Certifications

EPA 608 Certification: Required by the EPA for HVAC technicians nationwide.

NATE Certifications: Showcase expertise in specific skills to clients and employers.

Installation and Service Specialty Certifications: Offered by NATE for technicians with more than two years of experience.

Stay Informed about the Industry

The HVAC industry evolves continuously. Keeping up with new technologies and practices will increase your earning potential.

Enhance Sales Skills

Learning how to build confidence and trust with customers can significantly impact your earnings as you interact with new clients.

Develop Management Skills

As you advance in your career, opportunities to manage less-experienced employees may arise. Seizing these opportunities demonstrates your potential to become a manager and earn a higher income. Focusing on management skills is also beneficial if you plan to start your own HVAC company.