verified BLS-Verified Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2025 release

HVAC Technician Salary

Median Annual Salary
$61,010/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$29.33/hr

Salary Distribution (10th to 90th Percentile)

trending_up 10-Yr Growth
+9% Much faster than average
school Entry Education
Postsecondary certificate
work Total Jobs (U.S.)
409,670

Estimated Pay by Experience Level

Entry-Level (10th Pct)
$40,050
$19.25/hr
Median
Mid-Level (50th Pct)
$61,010
$29.33/hr
Senior-Level (90th Pct)
$95,210
$45.78/hr

Salary by State

Median annual
StateMedian / yrRelative pay
District of Columbia $84,390
Alaska $77,430
Illinois $77,410
Massachusetts $77,300
Connecticut $76,610
Minnesota $76,350
Washington $75,660
North Dakota $74,490
National Median $61,010

View all 51 states arrow_forward

The highest sticker pay isn't always where HVAC technicians keep the most. See HVAC Technician pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.

How to Become a HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems.

1

Meet the education requirement

Most HVAC technicians enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.

2

Complete an accredited training program

Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.

3

Earn the EPA Section 608 certification

Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $40,050 and rises toward $95,210 with experience.

HVAC Technician salary: common questions

How much does a HVAC Technician make an hour?

The median hourly wage for HVAC technicians is $29.33, which works out to about $61,010 per year for full-time work.

Which state pays HVAC technicians the most?

District of Columbia has the highest median pay for HVAC technicians at $84,390 per year — 38% above the national median of $61,010.

What is the salary range for HVAC technicians?

Most HVAC technicians earn between $40,050 and $95,210 per year. The middle 50% earn $48,360 to $77,060, with a median of $61,010.

Is becoming a HVAC Technician a good career?

Employment is projected to grow 9% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $61,010 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.

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