HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. National averages, state-by-state breakdown, specialty premiums, and top-paying metros in 2026.
Annual salary ranges for hvac technicians working in construction. Ranges reflect base wage before overtime, benefits, or per-diem.
| Experience Level | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (Yrs 1–2) | $45K | $60K | $53K |
| HVAC Tech (Yrs 3–5) | $58K | $78K | $68K |
| Senior / Installer | $75K | $95K | $85K |
| Master Technician | $90K | $115K | $103K |
| Service Manager | $95K | $130K | $113K |
Annual salary ranges by state for experienced journeyman-level hvac technicians. High-cost metro areas within each state often earn 10–25% above state average.
| State | Low | High | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $78K | $98K | $88K |
| Texas | $64K | $90K | $77K |
| Florida | $61K | $86K | $73K |
| New York | $75K | $98K | $86K |
| Pennsylvania | $63K | $87K | $75K |
| Illinois | $67K | $92K | $79K |
| Ohio | $59K | $84K | $72K |
| Georgia | $61K | $86K | $74K |
| North Carolina | $61K | $86K | $73K |
| Michigan | $60K | $84K | $72K |
| New Jersey | $73K | $95K | $84K |
| Virginia | $74K | $101K | $88K |
| Washington | $74K | $95K | $85K |
| Arizona | $65K | $92K | $79K |
| Colorado | $67K | $92K | $79K |
| Massachusetts | $74K | $95K | $85K |
| Tennessee | $59K | $83K | $71K |
| Missouri | $58K | $82K | $70K |
| Maryland | $71K | $94K | $82K |
| Minnesota | $64K | $89K | $76K |
The certifications and licenses most valued by employers and that correlate with the highest pay premiums for hvac technicians.
These metros consistently offer above-national-average pay due to construction volume, cost of living adjustments, and specialized demand.
Typical premium vs. national average in these markets: +15% to +45% depending on specialization and certifications.
What does a hvac technician make?
In the United States, hvac technicians earn a journeyman-level average of $68K–$78K per year in 2026, with entry-level apprentices starting at $45K–$60K. Foremen and master-level hvac technicians earn $95K–$130K. Data compiled from Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2025 and RSMeans 2026.