Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers: Salary Guide 2025
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers earned a national median salary of $61,010 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage was $64,780, or about $29 per hour, with the highest 10% pulling in over $95,210 and the lowest 10% below $40,050. With 409,670 workers and projected growth of 8.1% from 2024 to 2034, this trade offers solid pay and plenty of openings.
How much Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers earn
The median annual wage for HVAC mechanics and installers hit $61,010 in the latest BLS data. That means half earn more, half less. The typical pay range stretches from $40,050 at the 10th percentile to $95,210 at the 90th, so experience and location matter a lot. Mean hourly pay works out to about $29, but top earners in certain markets can clear $45 per hour.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The District of Columbia tops the list with an average salary of $84,390, followed by Alaska ($77,430), Illinois ($77,410), Massachusetts ($77,300), and Connecticut ($76,610). On the lower end, HVAC pros in Mississippi average $48,680, Alabama $48,370, and Arkansas $48,110. That's a gap of over $36,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer
Most HVAC workers learn through a combination of technical school, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training. A high school diploma is the usual starting point. Many then attend a trade or community college program that lasts 6 months to 2 years, earning a certificate or associate degree. Apprenticeships, typically 3-5 years, combine paid work with classroom instruction. After training, most states require a license to handle refrigerants; many also require a contractor license for independent work. Certification through organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) can boost job prospects.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for HVAC mechanics and installers to grow 8.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 40,100 openings per year over the decade, many of which come from retirements and workers leaving the field. Demand is driven by new construction, stricter climate control requirements, and the need to replace aging systems. With solid pay and strong growth, it's a good time to enter the trade.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer?
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $64,780 and a median of $61,010 in 2024. Pay varies by location, experience, and employer.
Do Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers need a license?
Yes, most states require an HVAC license. At minimum, technicians handling refrigerants must be EPA Section 608 certified. State licensing often requires passing an exam and completing a certain number of work hours.
Is HVAC a good career for job growth?
The BLS projects employment growth of 8.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 40,100 openings per year. It's a stable and well-paying trade with strong demand.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers data.