The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) industry is pivotal in ensuring that homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities maintain safe and comfortable indoor environments. Beyond its essential services, the HVACR sector is a significant contributor to the United States economy.
It was valued at approximately $93 billion in 2019 and is projected to experience steady growth, with estimates suggesting it could reach over $130 billion by 2026. This growth is driven by technological advancements, a growing emphasis on energy efficiency, and the increasing demand for eco-friendly refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
The industry not only plays a critical role in the comfort and safety of millions but also offers a wide range of career opportunities. From technical roles like installation and maintenance to positions in design, sales, and management, the HVACR sector is a cornerstone of the U.S. workforce, employing hundreds of thousands of installation and mechanic professionals across the country.
Read on for the employment and salary details of HVACR mechanics and installers in the US sourced by the BLS.
HVACR Salaries and Employment by State
Alabama
In Alabama, the HVACR industry provides employment to approximately 5,920 mechanics and installers, offering an average hourly wage of $22.69. To become an HVACR contractor in Alabama, applicants must pass a state-specific examination and have either a certain number of years of experience or educational qualifications in HVACR. Additionally, Alabama requires contractors to hold a state license to practice, ensuring all practitioners meet professional and ethical standards.
Alaska
Alaska’s HVACR sector employs around 500 installation and mechanic professionals, with an impressive average hourly wage of $34.71, reflecting the high demand for heating solutions in the state’s harsh climate. Aspiring HVACR contractors in Alaska must obtain a Mechanical Administrator license, which involves passing an examination that covers both technical knowledge and applicable codes. Experience in the field is also a prerequisite.
Arizona
The state of Arizona has 8,210 mechanics and installers working in the HVACR industry, earning an average of $26.15 per hour. To legally operate as an HVACR contractor in Arizona, one must obtain a license from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. This requires passing a business management examination and a trade exam specific to HVACR, in addition to proving relevant work experience.
Arkansas
Arkansas is home to 3,610 HVACR installation and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $21.91. In Arkansas, HVACR technicians seeking to become contractors must pass a licensing exam after completing the required hours of on-the-job training or a formal education program. The state mandates licensure for all who install or service HVACR systems, ensuring consumer safety and professional competence.
California
With 38,370 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, California offers an average hourly wage of $32.42. California requires HVACR contractors to hold a C-20 license, which is obtained through the California Contractors State License Board. Applicants must pass both a trade examination and a law & business exam. Additionally, four years of experience in the field within the last ten years is required to qualify for the license.
Colorado
Colorado employs 6,990 HVACR installation and mechanic workers, who earn an average hourly wage of $28.54. To become an HVACR contractor in Colorado, professionals must comply with the licensing requirements set by the local jurisdictions, as the state does not have a statewide licensing system for HVACR contractors. Most jurisdictions require passing an examination and proof of experience or apprenticeship completion.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, there are 4,890 mechanics and installers employed in the HVACR sector, earning an average of $33.14 per hour. Becoming an HVACR contractor in Connecticut requires obtaining a D-1 or D-2 license from the Department of Consumer Protection. Candidates must pass an examination that assesses knowledge of HVACR systems and codes and have completed a certain number of years of practical experience or educational training.
Delaware
Delaware’s HVACR industry supports 1,430 mechanic and installer jobs, offering an average hourly wage of $27.37. To work as an HVACR contractor in Delaware, practitioners need to pass a trade-specific examination and obtain a Delaware business license. The state also requires proof of experience or education in HVACR systems, ensuring all contractors are qualified to provide services.
District of Columbia
The District of Columbia has around 360 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, with a top-tier average hourly wage of $35.89. HVACR contractors in the District must obtain a license from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), which requires passing an examination covering HVACR practices and D.C. regulations, as well as proving work experience or completion of an apprenticeship program.
Florida
Florida boasts 33,560 HVACR installation and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $23.74. To become a licensed HVACR contractor in Florida, professionals must pass a state examination that includes questions on HVACR trade knowledge and business and financial management. Florida offers two primary types of licenses for HVACR contractors: Certified (which allows statewide work) and Registered (which limits the contractor to certain localities). Both types require proof of experience and financial stability.
Georgia
In Georgia, the HVACR industry employs about 12,210 installation and mechanic workers, offering an average hourly wage of $25.21. To become an HVACR contractor in Georgia, candidates must pass the Conditioned Air Contractor exam, which requires a minimum of four years of experience, including one year of proven experience as a foreman. Additionally, Georgia mandates that HVACR contractors obtain a state license to ensure adherence to industry standards and safety regulations.
Hawaii
Hawaii has 1,260 HVACR installers and mechanic professionals who earn an average hourly wage of $34.29, one of the highest in the nation. To operate as an HVACR contractor in Hawaii, one must pass the appropriate licensing exam and have not less than four years of supervisory experience. The state requires contractors to be licensed, ensuring a high level of competency and professionalism in the industry.
Idaho
The state of Idaho employs 3,110 HVACR installers and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $23.63. Idaho requires HVACR contractors to register with the Division of Building Safety and, depending on the scope of work, may also require a contractor’s license. The process involves proving competency through experience, examinations, or both.
Illinois
Illinois is home to 11,250 HVACR installers and mechanic professionals, offering an average hourly wage of $30.16. In Illinois, HVACR contractors need to comply with licensing requirements that vary by locality as the state does not have a unified statewide licensing system for HVACR contractors. Chicago, for example, requires passing a detailed examination and proving a specific level of experience or education.
Indiana
Indiana has an HVACR workforce of 7,390 installation and mechanic professionals, earning an average hourly wage of $26.98. HVACR contractor licensure in Indiana is regulated at the local level, meaning requirements vary by city or county. Generally, contractors must demonstrate their competence through experience, examinations, or completion of an accredited program.
Iowa
In Iowa, there are 3,860 mechanics and installers working in the HVACR industry, earning an average of $26.30 per hour. The state of Iowa requires HVACR contractors to obtain a state contractor license, which involves providing proof of business insurance and bonding. Specific cities may have additional licensing requirements including exams and experience verification.
Kansas
Kansas employs 3,440 HVACR installation and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $26.09. In Kansas, HVACR contractors must adhere to local licensing requirements, as the state itself does not regulate the trade through licensure. Contractors should check with municipal or county licensing boards to determine specific requirements, which typically include examinations and proof of experience or education.
Kentucky
The HVACR industry in Kentucky supports 5,240 mechanic and installer jobs, offering an average hourly wage of $24.43. Kentucky requires HVACR contractors to pass a state licensing exam and to have experience in the trade. The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction issues the HVAC Contractor License to those who meet the state’s requirements, ensuring the safety and efficiency of HVACR installations and repairs.
Louisiana
Louisiana has 3,920 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, who earn an average hourly wage of $25.42. To become an HVACR contractor in Louisiana, practitioners must pass the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors examination. In addition, applicants need to show proof of financial stability and business insurance. The state places a strong emphasis on adhering to safety standards and regulations.
Maine
Maine’s HVACR industry employs 1,930 installation and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $27.09. In Maine, mechanics and installers looking to become HVACR contractors must obtain a license from the Maine Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. The licensure process includes passing an exam that covers trade knowledge as well as Maine’s building codes and regulations. Experience in the trade or completion of an approved training program is also required.
Maryland
Maryland’s HVACR industry employs 7,760 installation and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $30.42. To become an HVACR contractor in Maryland, one must obtain a state license through the Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Contractors. This process requires passing an examination that covers both technical HVACR knowledge and Maryland law pertaining to the trade. Applicants also need to demonstrate practical experience in the field.
Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, 6,400 mechanics and installers are employed in the HVACR industry, earning an average hourly wage of $33.66, one of the higher averages in the country. Massachusetts requires HVACR technicians who wish to become contractors to be licensed by the Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Licensing requires passing an examination and accumulating a certain amount of experience under a licensed contractor.
Michigan
Michigan’s HVACR sector supports 9,480 mechanic and installer jobs, with an average hourly wage of $27.45. To become an HVACR contractor in Michigan, professionals must pass a state examination and obtain a Mechanical Contractor’s license. This license requires at least three years of experience in the field within the last six years prior to the application.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, there are 4,490 mechanics and installers working in the HVACR industry, with an average hourly wage of $33.69. Becoming an HVACR contractor in Minnesota requires obtaining a license from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Applicants must pass a trade exam and have at least four years of practical experience in HVACR services.
Mississippi
The HVACR industry in Mississippi employs 2,570 installation and mechanic workers, who earn an average hourly wage of $21.79. To become licensed as an HVACR contractor in Mississippi, applicants must pass a trade examination and submit proof of financial responsibility. The Mississippi State Board of Contractors oversees the licensure process, which aims to ensure that contractors are well-qualified to provide HVACR services.
Missouri
Missouri has 7,580 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $28.98. Missouri does not require HVACR contractors to have a state-level license; however, many local jurisdictions have their own licensing requirements. These often include passing an examination and providing evidence of experience or training in the HVACR field.
Montana
In Montana, the HVACR industry employs about 1,230 installation and mechanic workers, offering an average hourly wage of $25.57. To operate as an HVACR contractor in Montana, one needs to register with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. While the state does not require a specific HVACR license, some local jurisdictions may have additional requirements, including passing a licensing exam.
Nebraska
Nebraska’s HVACR sector supports 3,330 mechanic and installer jobs, with installation and mechanic professionals earning an average hourly wage of $26.05. HVACR contractors in Nebraska are required to hold a state license if they work in cities with their own licensing requirements, such as Omaha and Lincoln. This typically involves passing a local examination and meeting experience or educational criteria.
Nevada
Nevada employs 3,670 HVACR installation and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $27.12. To become an HVACR contractor in Nevada, professionals must pass the Nevada State Contractors Board examination and prove at least four years of experience in the past ten years. The state emphasizes adherence to high standards of safety and efficiency through its licensing process.
New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the HVACR industry employs 1,790 mechanics and installers, offering an average hourly wage of $29.64. To work as an HVACR contractor in New Hampshire, licensing through the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification is required. Applicants must pass an examination that covers HVACR systems and the state’s building codes.
New Jersey
New Jersey stands out in the HVACR industry with 9,300 mechanics and installers employed, earning an average hourly wage of $32.94. To become an HVACR contractor in New Jersey, one must study through New Jersey HVACR license prep courses, and then obtain the actual license by passing a state examination that assesses knowledge of the trade and compliance with state regulations.
New Mexico
The HVACR industry in New Mexico supports 1,240 installation and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $23.16. To work as an HVACR contractor in New Mexico, one must obtain a license from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. This process involves passing a trade exam and demonstrating experience in HVACR practices. Applicants are also required to prove financial responsibility and business competence.
New York
New York has a robust HVACR industry, employing 20,150 installation and mechanic workers with an average hourly wage of $33.43. In New York, HVACR contractors must navigate a variety of local licensure requirements, as the state itself does not offer a statewide HVACR license. Many local jurisdictions require passing an examination, completing educational courses, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, there are 14,160 HVACR installers and mechanic professionals, earning an average of $23.74 per hour. Becoming an HVACR contractor in North Carolina requires obtaining a license from the State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating, and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. Applicants must pass a comprehensive exam and meet experience requirements to ensure they are well-prepared to serve the state’s diverse climate needs.
North Dakota
North Dakota employs around 830 mechanics and installers in the HVACR industry, with an average hourly wage of $30.63. HVACR contractors in North Dakota must be licensed by the North Dakota State Plumbing Board. The licensure process includes passing a trade examination and demonstrating a specific level of experience or education in HVACR systems.
Ohio
Ohio’s HVACR sector supports 13,710 mechanic and installer jobs, offering an average hourly wage of $26.90. To become an HVACR contractor in Ohio, candidates must obtain a license from the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB). This involves passing an examination that covers HVACR system knowledge, Ohio building codes, and general business practices. Experience in the trade is also a prerequisite for licensure.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma has 5,370 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $23.58. In Oklahoma, HVACR contractors are required to pass a licensure exam administered by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. Additionally, applicants must show evidence of experience and financial responsibility to ensure the safety and reliability of HVACR services provided to Oklahomans.
Oregon
In Oregon, the HVACR industry employs about 3,620 installation and mechanic workers, offering an average hourly wage of $29.74. To become an HVACR contractor in Oregon, one needs a license from the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). This includes passing a business and law exam, as well as a trade-specific exam. Oregon places a strong emphasis on education and continuous learning for HVACR contractors.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania boasts 17,730 HVACR installers and mechanic workers, with an average hourly wage of $26.62. HVACR contractors in Pennsylvania must comply with local licensure requirements, as the state does not have a unified statewide licensing system for HVACR professionals. Many municipalities require passing local examinations and meeting experience or educational qualifications.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s HVACR industry employs 1,240 mechanics and installers, with an average hourly wage of $30.09. To operate as an HVACR contractor in Rhode Island, licensing through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training is required. Candidates must pass an examination that assesses both technical HVACR knowledge and familiarity with state-specific regulations.
South Carolina
South Carolina has 5,470 HVACR installers and mechanic professionals, earning an average hourly wage of $23.16. HVACR contractors in South Carolina need to obtain a license from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. The licensure process requires passing both a technical skills exam and a business and law exam. Applicants must also meet experience requirements that demonstrate their capability to perform HVACR work safely and effectively.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, the HVACR industry employs around 1,060 mechanics and installers. These professionals earn an average hourly wage of $26.76. To become an HVACR contractor in South Dakota, one must obtain a license through the South Dakota Plumbing Commission. This process involves passing a trade-specific examination and demonstrating a certain level of experience or education in the HVACR field.
Tennessee
Tennessee’s HVACR sector supports 9,940 mechanic and installer jobs, with an average hourly wage of $23.95. HVACR contractors in Tennessee are required to obtain a license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. This includes passing a trade exam as well as a business and law management exam. Additionally, candidates must show proof of financial stability and insurance.
Texas
The state of Texas employs a substantial number of HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, with 30,670 mechanics and installers working in the industry. These practitioners earn an average hourly wage of $24.90. To legally operate as an HVACR contractor in Texas, candidates must pass a licensing examination administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Texas also requires HVACR contractors to have liability insurance and to complete continuing education as part of the licensure renewal process.
Utah
Utah’s HVACR industry employs about 5,140 installation and mechanic workers, who earn an average hourly wage of $25.76. Becoming an HVACR contractor in Utah requires obtaining a license from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Applicants must pass both a trade-specific exam and a business and law exam. Utah also mandates that contractors have a certain amount of work experience or apprenticeship training.
Vermont
In Vermont, the HVACR industry supports 1,340 mechanic and installer jobs, offering an average hourly wage of $26.79. HVACR contractors in Vermont must be licensed by the Vermont Department of Public Safety. The licensing process includes passing an examination that covers both trade knowledge and the state’s building codes and safety regulations. Experience in the HVACR trade is also required.
Virginia
Virginia has 12,640 HVACR installation and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $26.87. To become an HVACR contractor in Virginia, practitioners must obtain a license from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. This involves passing a trade exam, as well as a business and law exam. Additionally, Virginia requires HVACR contractors to show proof of general liability insurance.
Washington
The state of Washington employs 7,390 HVACR installers and mechanic workers, earning an average hourly wage of $31.41. HVACR contractors in Washington must be registered with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. The registration process includes passing a business and law exam, providing proof of insurance, and securing a bond. Specific cities may have additional licensing requirements.
West Virginia
In West Virginia, the HVACR industry employs around 1,660 mechanics and installers, offering an average hourly wage of $21.18. HVACR contractors must obtain a license from the West Virginia Division of Labor. This process includes passing a trade exam and proving experience in the HVACR field. West Virginia also requires contractors to hold liability insurance.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s HVACR sector supports 5,930 mechanic and installer jobs, with an average hourly wage of $30.89. To work as an HVACR contractor in Wisconsin, licensing through the Department of Safety and Professional Services is required. Applicants must pass a trade examination and have completed an apprenticeship or have equivalent experience in the HVACR field.
Wyoming
Wyoming employs around 420 HVACR installers and mechanic professionals, with an average hourly wage of $27.18. In Wyoming, HVACR contractors must be licensed with the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety. The licensing process includes passing a trade exam and demonstrating a certain level of experience or training. Wyoming places a strong emphasis on safety standards and professional competency in the HVACR industry.