Where do HVAC installers make the most money? According to the BLS, Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, and Massachusetts pay the highest average annual salaries for HVAC technicians.
Florida: Florida has the highest projected number of job openings for HVAC technicians, with 4,430 projected positions in upcoming years. The large growth is likely due to the state's exposure to natural disasters like hurricanes, which can severely damage infrastructure.
Best States for HVAC Technicians in Terms of Salary
According to Indeed's data, California has the highest-paying HVAC base salary at just over $50,000 per year. Close behind are Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and New Jersey.
Yes, HVAC technicians can earn $100K a year, especially in the highest paying states or specialized fields such as commercial HVAC or system design. As service techs gain experience and move into higher positions or own their businesses, their annual pay can reach or exceed this threshold.
California is one of the best states to consider becoming an HVAC technician. Not only is the state notable for its sunshine and cold extremes, but it is also one of the highest-paying regions for technical professionals nationwide.
Both HVAC technicians and electricians earn similar compensation, though the average annual salary for electricians is about $5,000 higher than that of HVAC techs. Both have a large disparity in pay between the highest and lowest-earning ten percent of professionals.
An HVAC technician's salary is higher than many other technicians in the U.S. According to the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics), The median pay in 2023 was $57,300 per year, with the average pay per hour being $27.55. The salary varies by state, employer, and one's experience level.
If possible, keep your indoor HVAC unit as close to the center of your home as you can. This will reduce the amount of ductwork you'll need, saving you money on repairs and your energy bills. Other ideal locations for the indoor unit include pantries, utility closets, basements, or small closets in a middle hallway.
AC technicians have the most in-demand job in the field which is why most people choose to focus on this type of HVAC training. An AC technician is responsible for making sure the AC unit in homes and offices are functioning properly.
On average, AC technicians with 1-2 years of experience can expect an annual salary ranging from INR 2.5 lakh to INR 3.5 lakh*. However, salaries can vary from INR 2 lakh to INR 6 lakh or higher for highly skilled and experienced AC technicians.
Can you become a millionaire with HVAC? While it is possible become a millionaire in the HVAC industry, it depends on various factors, including your: Business management.
Washington: Leading the Pack
Washington is the top state where HVAC technicians earn the most. The average salary here is around $63,283 per year. Factors contributing to this high salary include the state's high cost of living and the consistent demand for HVAC services due to varying climates across the state.
Is HVAC a Hard Trade to Learn? For some people, HVAC can be a hard trade to learn, at least initially. There can be a steep learning curve in the first year to understand the scientific and technical parts of air conditioning repair, and heating repair.
Your work schedule depends on whether you're an apprentice, intern, or experienced technician. As an apprentice or intern, you need to work between 15 and 30 hours a week. However, experienced technicians working full-time amass 40 or more hours every week.
If you're exploring new career options, this year may be the ideal time to pursue a job as an HVAC technician. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting the HVAC job outlook expected to grow 6 percent by 2032, it's never been a better time to consider entering this growing field.
For example, if you search for jobs in the HVAC industry on HVACJobsCenter.com, you'll see that companies such as Baker Home Energy in Escondido, California are hiring candidates with a salary starting at $100k and above, if you meet qualifications.
Metropolitan areas with sweltering summers and icy winters see a higher demand for skilled hands, translating to higher wages compared to rural areas with milder climates. California and New York, for example, boast significantly higher median salaries than states like Oklahoma or Montana.