Across U.S. metros, plumbers typically earn $1,840 more a year than HVAC technicians (3%). In the 385 metros where BLS publishes both, HVAC technicians earn more in 123 and plumbers in 262.
| HVAC Technician | Plumber | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $59,590 | $61,430 |
| Lowest metro median | $29,140 | $29,690 |
| Highest metro median | $93,820 | $107,560 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.9% | +6.8% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 40,600 | 42,000 |
| Self-employed | 6% | 8% |
| Typical education | Postsecondary nondegree award | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Apprenticeship |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 214 | 144 |
| Metros with pay data | 389 | 387 |
On safety, HVAC technicians report more injuries that cause missed work (214 vs. 144 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 plumbers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where plumbers out-earn HVAC technicians the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
State by state Government data
Using statewide pay, HVAC technicians earn more in 9 states and plumbers in 42. The gap favors HVAC technicians most in North Dakota ($10,930) and plumbers most in Oregon ($34,110).
BLS OEWS statewide medians, May 2025.
How the work differs Government data
The biggest differences: Cramped spaces and awkward positions: occasionally for HVAC technicians, often for plumbers. Standing, bending, kneeling and walking: sometimes for HVAC technicians, often for plumbers.
| HVAC Technician | Plumber | |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoors, in all kinds of weather | Very often | Often |
| Indoors with heating and air conditioning | Often | Sometimes |
| Very hot or cold conditions | Sometimes | Often |
| Working at heights | Sometimes | Often |
| Climbing ladders, scaffolds or poles | Sometimes | Often |
| Cramped spaces and awkward positions | Occasionally | Often |
| Loud noise | Often | Often |
| Hazardous conditions | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Standing, bending, kneeling and walking | Sometimes | Often |
| Sitting | Occasionally | Rarely |
O*NET 31.0 Work Context, national.
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.
Plumber
Assemble, install, alter, and repair pipelines or pipe systems that carry water, steam, air, or other liquids or gases. May install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Includes sprinkler fitters.
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