HVAC technicians can earn a good income, with average salaries ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
HVAC technicians play a crucial role in keeping homes and businesses comfortable year-round. But do these skilled professionals earn salaries that match their importance? The answer is a resounding yes – with the right experience and specialization, HVAC techs can earn six-figure incomes in this growing field.
Average HVAC Technician Salaries in 2025
The national average salary for HVAC technicians currently ranges between $49,500 to $56,000 annually. However, top earners in the field make over $100,000 per year. Several key factors influence where technicians fall in this range:
- Years of experience
- Specialized certifications
- Geographic location
- Type of employer (residential vs commercial)
- Union vs non-union positions
Hourly Wage Breakdown
Most HVAC technicians earn between $22-$32 per hour, with the national average at $28.26/hour. Entry-level positions typically start around $18/hour, while master technicians in high-demand areas can earn $45+/hour.
Highest Paying States for HVAC Technicians
Location significantly impacts earning potential. The top 5 highest-paying states are:
| State | Average Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $66,560 | $32.00 |
| Alaska | $65,090 | $31.29 |
| Hawaii | $64,380 | $30.95 |
| Massachusetts | $63,127 | $30.35 |
| North Dakota | $63,049 | $30.31 |
Specializations That Boost Earnings
HVAC technicians can significantly increase their earning potential by obtaining specialized certifications in areas like:
- Commercial refrigeration systems
- Geothermal heating/cooling
- Solar thermal systems
- Building automation controls
- Industrial HVAC systems
For example, technicians certified to work on tankless water heaters or pool heater systems often command premium rates for their specialized knowledge.
Career Growth and Job Outlook
The HVAC industry is experiencing strong growth, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 5% job growth through 2031 – faster than average for all occupations. This translates to about 37,000 new HVAC jobs expected by 2025.
Key factors driving demand include:
- Increasing focus on energy efficiency
- Growing need for indoor air quality solutions
- Retirement of experienced technicians
- New environmental regulations requiring system upgrades
Commercial vs Residential Opportunities
While residential HVAC work offers steady employment, commercial technicians often earn 10-20% more. Large commercial systems require more complex skills and often involve union positions with better benefits. According to House Call Pro, technicians working in natural gas distribution average $79,320 annually.
How Experience Impacts Earnings
HVAC salaries follow a clear progression as technicians gain experience:
- Apprentice: $30,000-$40,000
- Journeyman (3-5 years): $45,000-$65,000
- Master Technician (5+ years): $70,000-$100,000+
- Service Manager: $80,000-$120,000
Many experienced technicians eventually start their own businesses, where earnings potential is virtually unlimited. The most successful HVAC business owners can earn $150,000+ annually.
Benefits and Perks
Beyond base salaries, many HVAC technicians enjoy:
- Overtime pay (time-and-a-half for hours over 40)
- On-call bonuses
- Commission on equipment sales
- Company vehicles
- Full health benefits
- Retirement plans
- Paid training and certification
As noted by SBE Odyssey, the combination of good pay, benefits, and job security makes HVAC an attractive career choice for those with mechanical aptitude.
Getting Started in HVAC
For those considering entering the field, typical paths include:
- Vocational/technical school program (6 months-2 years)
- Community college associate degree
- Apprenticeship (3-5 years paid on-the-job training)
Many states require licensure, which involves passing an exam after completing education/training requirements. Continuing education is often needed to maintain licenses and stay current with evolving technologies.
