Across U.S. metros, hvac technicians typically earn $9,050 more a year than appliance repair technicians (18%). In the 125 metros where BLS publishes both, appliance repair technicians earn more in 14 and hvac technicians in 111.
| Appliance Repair Technician | HVAC Technician | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $50,540 | $59,590 |
| Lowest metro median | $34,320 | $29,140 |
| Highest metro median | $86,940 | $93,820 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.9% | +10.9% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 2,800 | 40,600 |
| Self-employed | 20% | 6% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | Postsecondary nondegree award |
| Typical training | Moderate-term on-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 327 | 214 |
| Metros with pay data | 125 | 389 |
On safety, appliance repair technicians report more injuries that cause missed work (327 vs. 214 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where appliance repair technicians out-earn hvac technicians the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where hvac technicians out-earn appliance repair technicians the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Appliance Repair Technician
Repair, adjust, or install all types of electric or gas household appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and ovens.
HVAC Technician
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
Compare one trade across two cities →