HVAC installers earn a median salary of $54,100 annually for entry-level positions, rising to $77,200 for senior-level technicians in 2025. Salaries vary significantly by state, with California ($59,200) and New Jersey ($58,300) offering the highest entry-level compensation, while states like West Virginia ($49,200) provide lower wages but reduced living costs. The HVAC industry projects 9% job growth through 2033, creating excellent career opportunities with strong earning potential that doesn't require a four-year college degree.
HVAC Installer Salary Overview: The Numbers You Need to Know
National Average HVAC Installer Salary in 2025
The HVAC installer profession offers competitive compensation across all experience levels. The median salary for a senior HVAC tech in the United States is $77,200 per year, or $37.12 per hour, in 2025.
Here's what you can expect to earn:
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $54,100 annually ($26.01 per hour)
- Intermediate (2-4 years): $65,700 annually ($31.59 per hour)
- Senior Level (4-7 years): $77,200 annually ($37.12 per hour)
- Supervisor Level (7+ years): $90,800 annually ($43.65 per hour)
These figures represent the median (50th percentile) salaries nationwide. Half of all HVAC installers earn more than these amounts.
Salary Growth Trends
The average HVAC installer salary has risen by $6,363 over the last ten years. This represents a 10% change in pay over the decade. Current projections show continued growth with entry-level positions expected to increase 3.44% between 2024 and 2025.
Complete State-by-State HVAC Installer Salary Breakdown
Understanding regional salary differences is crucial for career planning and potential relocation decisions. Salary variations between states can exceed $10,000 annually for the same experience level.
Top-Paying States for HVAC Installers
California leads all states with the highest HVAC installer salaries.
- Entry-Level: $59,200 annually ($28.46 per hour)
- Intermediate: $72,000 annually
- Senior: $84,500 annually
- Supervisor: $99,400 annually
New Jersey ranks second in HVAC installer compensation.
- Entry-Level: $58,300 annually ($28.03 per hour)
- Intermediate: $70,800 annually
- Senior: $83,100 annually
- Supervisor: $97,800 annually
Washington offers strong salaries with growing market demand.
- Entry-Level: $58,000 annually ($27.88 per hour)
- Intermediate: $70,500 annually
- Senior: $82,700 annually
- Supervisor: $97,300 annually
Massachusetts provides above-average compensation with excellent benefits.
- Entry-Level: $57,500 annually ($27.64 per hour)
- Intermediate: $69,800 annually
- Senior: $82,000 annually
- Supervisor: $96,400 annually
New York rounds out the top five highest-paying states.
- Entry-Level: $56,900 annually ($27.36 per hour)
- Intermediate: $69,200 annually
- Senior: $81,200 annually
- Supervisor: $95,600 annually
Midwest HVAC Installer Salaries
The Midwest offers solid middle-range salaries with lower living costs. Illinois leads the region in HVAC installer compensation.
Illinois
- Entry-Level: $55,200 annually
- Intermediate: $67,100 annually
- Senior: $78,800 annually
- Supervisor: $92,700 annually
Michigan provides steady opportunities in automotive and manufacturing regions.
- Entry-Level: $53,200 annually
- Intermediate: $64,600 annually
- Senior: $75,900 annually
- Supervisor: $89,300 annually
Ohio offers balanced salaries with strong job market stability.
- Entry-Level: $52,200 annually
- Intermediate: $63,400 annually
- Senior: $74,400 annually
- Supervisor: $87,500 annually
Southern States HVAC Installer Compensation
Southern states provide growing markets with year-round demand. Texas leads the region with strong compensation packages.
Texas
- Entry-Level: $53,900 annually
- Intermediate: $65,500 annually
- Senior: $76,900 annually
- Supervisor: $90,400 annually
Florida offers steady work with high cooling demand.
- Entry-Level: $52,100 annually
- Intermediate: $63,300 annually
- Senior: $74,300 annually
- Supervisor: $87,400 annually
Georgia provides expanding opportunities in commercial and residential markets.
- Entry-Level: $53,000 annually
- Intermediate: $64,400 annually
- Senior: $75,600 annually
- Supervisor: $89,000 annually
Lower-Cost States with Growing Opportunities
These states offer lower salaries but significantly reduced living expenses. The purchasing power often equals or exceeds higher-salary markets.
West Virginia has the lowest entry-level salaries but very affordable living costs.
- Entry-Level: $49,200 annually ($23.65 per hour)
- Intermediate: $59,800 annually
- Senior: $70,100 annually
- Supervisor: $82,500 annually
Mississippi provides steady opportunities with minimal living expenses.
- Entry-Level: $49,500 annually ($23.80 per hour)
- Intermediate: $60,200 annually
- Senior: $70,700 annually
- Supervisor: $83,100 annually
Arkansas offers growing markets with low cost of living.
- Entry-Level: $50,000 annually ($24.04 per hour)
- Intermediate: $60,800 annually
- Senior: $71,400 annually
- Supervisor: $84,000 annually
Highest-Paying Cities for HVAC Installers
Metropolitan areas typically offer higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living factors. City salaries can exceed state averages by 15-20%.
- San Francisco, CA: $64,200 annually ($30.87 per hour) for entry-level
- New York City, NY: $60,600 annually ($29.13 per hour) for entry-level
- Newark, NJ: $59,900 annually ($28.80 per hour) for entry-level
- Seattle, WA: $59,200 annually ($28.46 per hour) for entry-level
- Bridgeport, CT: $58,800 annually ($28.27 per hour) for entry-level
HVAC Installation Types and Salary Differences
Different installation specializations command varying salary levels. Commercial work typically pays 15-25% more than residential installations.
Residential HVAC Installation
Residential HVAC installers work on single-family homes and small commercial buildings. This sector offers steady demand year-round with predictable work schedules. Entry-level residential installers typically start at the median salary ranges listed above.
Commercial HVAC Installation
Commercial HVAC installers work on larger buildings, office complexes, and industrial facilities. These systems are more complex and require additional training. Commercial installers earn premium rates due to system complexity and project scale.
Industrial HVAC Installation
Industrial HVAC installers work on manufacturing facilities, data centers, and specialized industrial applications. This specialization requires the highest technical skills and offers the best compensation. Industrial installers can earn 20-30% above standard rates.
New Construction vs. Replacement Work
New construction projects often provide steady work for extended periods. Replacement and repair work offers variety but can be more unpredictable. Both sectors offer competitive compensation with different work environments.
Service and Maintenance Integration
Many HVAC installers also perform service and maintenance work. This combination increases earning potential and provides year-round employment stability. Service work often includes performance bonuses and customer satisfaction incentives.
HVAC Installer Certifications and Training Impact on Salary
Proper certifications and training significantly impact earning potential. Certified installers earn 10-20% more than uncertified workers.
Essential Certifications
EPA 608 Certification is mandatory for handling refrigerants. All HVAC installers must obtain this certification. The certification process involves studying refrigerant handling procedures and passing a comprehensive exam.
NATE Certification represents industry-recognized excellence standards. NATE-certified installers demonstrate superior knowledge and skills. Many employers prefer or require NATE certification for senior positions.
HVAC Excellence Certification demonstrates advanced competency in installation techniques. This certification covers both technical skills and customer service excellence. Certified installers often receive priority consideration for promotions.
~ See our full certification guide blog post
Manufacturer-Specific Training
Brand-specific training programs provide expertise in particular equipment lines. Manufacturers like Carrier, Trane, and Lennox offer specialized training programs. These certifications often lead to warranty work opportunities and premium installation rates.
Ongoing Education Requirements
Most certifications require continuing education to maintain validity. The industry evolves rapidly with new technologies and regulations. Staying current with training ensures continued earning potential and career advancement.
HVAC Installer Career Advancement and Salary Growth
Career advancement in HVAC installation follows predictable pathways. Each advancement level brings increased responsibility and compensation.
Entry-Level Advancement Timeline
Years 1-2: Apprentice/Helper positions provide foundational learning. Entry-level salary ranges from $50,000-55,000 annually. New installers learn fundamental skills while building experience under supervision.
Years 3-5: Journeyman Installer positions offer independent work capability. Mid-level salary ranges from $65,000-75,000 annually. Journeymen can work independently and begin specializing in specific system types.
Senior-Level Opportunities
Years 6-10: Senior Installer/Lead Tech positions involve training junior staff. Senior salary ranges from $75,000-85,000 annually. Lead technicians manage project teams and handle complex installations.
Years 10+: Supervisor/Manager positions offer team leadership responsibilities. Management salary ranges from $90,000-120,000+ annually. Supervisors oversee multiple crews and manage business development activities.
Entrepreneurial Pathways
Many successful HVAC installers eventually start their own businesses. Established contractors can earn $150,000+ annually. Business ownership requires additional skills in management, marketing, and finance.
HVAC Installer Benefits and Total Compensation
HVAC installers typically receive comprehensive benefits packages beyond base salary. Total compensation often exceeds base salary by 20-30%.
Standard Benefits Package
Health insurance coverage includes medical, dental, and vision benefits. Most employers provide family coverage options. Retirement plans typically include 401(k) matching contributions.
Paid time off includes vacation days, sick leave, and holiday pay. Workers' compensation coverage protects against job-related injuries. Many employers provide life and disability insurance coverage.
Industry-Specific Benefits
Tool allowances range from $500-2,000 annually for equipment purchases. Vehicle allowances or company trucks reduce transportation costs. Uniform and safety equipment provision saves hundreds annually.
Continuing education reimbursement supports career advancement. Many employers pay for certification courses and training programs. Conference attendance and professional membership dues are often covered.
Performance Incentives
Installation completion bonuses reward efficiency and quality work. Safety performance rewards encourage accident-free work practices. Customer satisfaction bonuses tie compensation to service quality.
Overtime opportunities during peak seasons can significantly boost annual earnings. On-call premium pay provides additional income during emergency situations. Commission opportunities exist in some sales-focused positions.
Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Installer Salaries
What is the average HVAC installer salary?
The average HVAC installer salary in 2025 is $54,100 annually for entry-level positions. Intermediate installers with 2-4 years of experience earn $65,700 annually. Senior installers with 4-7 years of experience earn $77,200 annually.
What is the highest paying state for HVAC installers?
California offers the highest HVAC installer salaries at $59,200 annually for entry-level positions. New Jersey ranks second at $58,300 annually. Washington state offers $58,000 annually for entry-level installers.
What is the difference between residential and commercial HVAC installer salaries?
Commercial HVAC installers typically earn 15-25% more than residential installers. Commercial work involves more complex systems and larger projects. Industrial HVAC installers can earn 20-30% above standard residential rates.
What certifications increase HVAC installer salary?
EPA 608 certification is mandatory and provides baseline qualification. NATE certification can increase salary by 10-15% over uncertified workers. Manufacturer-specific certifications often lead to premium installation work and higher hourly rates.
How much do union HVAC installers make?
Union HVAC installers typically earn 15-20% more than non-union workers. Union positions include superior benefits packages and job security protections. Prevailing wage rates on government projects often exceed standard market rates.
What is the job outlook for HVAC installers?
The HVAC industry projects 9% job growth through 2033, faster than average occupations. Approximately 40,100 new HVAC jobs are expected by 2033. The industry faces a skilled worker shortage with 1.8 jobs available per qualified installer.
How to become an HVAC installer?
HVAC installer careers require a high school diploma or equivalent. Trade school programs typically last 6-24 months and provide foundational training. Apprenticeship programs offer paid training while learning on the job over 2-4 years.
How to increase HVAC installer salary?
Salary increases come through gaining experience and additional certifications. Specializing in commercial or industrial work typically increases earning potential. Moving to higher-paying geographic markets can boost compensation significantly.
What skills are needed for HVAC installation?
HVAC installation requires mechanical aptitude and physical fitness. Basic electrical knowledge helps with system connections and troubleshooting. Problem-solving skills are essential for complex installations and customer service situations.
How does HVAC installer salary compare to other trades?
Entry-level HVAC installers ($54,100) earn slightly more than plumbers ($53,900) but less than electricians ($60,600). At senior levels, HVAC installers ($77,200) out-earn both plumbers ($75,800) and electricians ($76,600). Career progression potential equals or exceeds other skilled trades.
Ready to start your HVAC installation career? Browse current job opportunities and salary offerings at HVACJobsOnly.com to find positions matching your experience level and location preferences.
