Across U.S. metros, hvac technicians typically earn $1,305 more a year than solar installers (2%). In the 43 metros where BLS publishes both, hvac technicians earn more in 36 and solar installers in 7.
| HVAC Technician | Solar Installer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $59,590 | $58,285 |
| Lowest metro median | $29,140 | $26,340 |
| Highest metro median | $93,820 | $78,360 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +10.9% | +36.5% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 40,600 | 4,200 |
| Self-employed | 6% | — |
| Typical education | Postsecondary nondegree award | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Long-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 214 | 101 |
| Metros with pay data | 389 | 44 |
On safety, hvac technicians report more injuries that cause missed work (214 vs. 101 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 solar installers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where solar installers 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.
Solar Installer
Assemble, install, or maintain solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and schematics. May include measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules. May perform minor electrical work such as current checks.
Compare one trade across two cities →