Across U.S. metros, industrial machinery mechanics typically earn $4,275 more a year than hvac technicians (7%). In the 385 metros where BLS publishes both, hvac technicians earn more in 65 and industrial machinery mechanics in 320.
| HVAC Technician | Industrial Machinery Mechanic | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $59,590 | $63,865 |
| Lowest metro median | $29,140 | $31,260 |
| Highest metro median | $93,820 | $96,950 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.9% | +17.8% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 40,600 | 44,400 |
| Self-employed | 6% | 1% |
| Typical education | Postsecondary nondegree award | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 214 | 54 |
| Metros with pay data | 389 | 388 |
On safety, hvac technicians report more injuries that cause missed work (214 vs. 54 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 hvac technicians out-earn industrial machinery mechanics the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where industrial machinery mechanics out-earn hvac technicians the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
HVAC Technician
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Repair, install, adjust, or maintain industrial production and processing machinery or refinery and pipeline distribution systems. May also install, dismantle, or move machinery and heavy equipment according to plans.
Compare one trade across two cities →