Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) professionals play a critical role in Texas, a state known for both blistering summers and unpredictable winters. Because of the state’s extreme climate, demand for HVAC technicians remains consistently high. Whether it’s residential air conditioning repair in Houston, large-scale commercial systems in Dallas, or refrigeration work in San Antonio, HVAC workers in Texas are essential.
One of the most common questions for people considering this career is simple: How much does an HVAC technician earn in Texas? To answer this thoroughly, we’ll look at average salaries across the state, the different factors that influence pay, comparisons by city, and how experience and certification affect earnings.
HVAC Salary in Texas
According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and state labor resources, the average HVAC salary in Texas is approximately $52,000 to $56,000 per year as of 2025. This equates to an hourly wage ranging from $25 to $27 per hour, depending on location and experience level.
However, HVAC pay in Texas varies significantly based on:
- Experience – Entry-level technicians typically earn less, while those with years of hands-on work and advanced certifications can reach six-figure salaries.
- Location – Large metro areas like Dallas–Fort Worth and Houston often pay higher wages compared to rural areas.
- Industry sector – Residential HVAC, commercial contracts, refrigeration, and government roles may pay differently.
- Certifications and licenses – Holding advanced certifications like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or specializations in refrigeration can increase earnings.
To provide a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Average Annual Salary (Texas) | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level HVAC Technician | $37,000 – $42,000 | $18 – $20 |
| Mid-Level HVAC Technician | $50,000 – $55,000 | $24 – $26 |
| Experienced/Senior Technician | $65,000 – $78,000 | $31 – $37 |
| HVAC Supervisors/Managers | $80,000 – $95,000+ | $38 – $45 |
| Top 10% (Highly Skilled/Certified) | $100,000+ | $48+ |
This table reflects a statewide average. Cities with larger populations, higher demand, and more commercial projects tend to skew higher, while smaller towns may lean closer to the entry and mid-level ranges.
HVAC Salaries by Texas City
Salaries for HVAC technicians in Texas differ across cities due to cost of living, demand, and industry presence. Here’s how major cities compare:
- Houston – The energy hub of Texas, Houston has a constant need for HVAC professionals, especially in commercial and industrial projects. Average salaries here are around $57,000 – $60,000 annually.
- Dallas–Fort Worth – This metroplex is one of the most competitive HVAC job markets in Texas, with average pay around $55,000 – $58,000 annually.
- Austin – With rapid growth and new construction projects, Austin HVAC professionals earn between $54,000 – $56,000 annually.
- San Antonio – Slightly lower than Houston or Dallas, average HVAC salaries in San Antonio fall around $50,000 – $53,000 annually.
- El Paso – On the lower end, salaries in El Paso typically range from $45,000 – $48,000 annually, reflecting a smaller metro economy.
Quick City Comparison Table:
| City | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Houston | $57,000 – $60,000 |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $55,000 – $58,000 |
| Austin | $54,000 – $56,000 |
| San Antonio | $50,000 – $53,000 |
| El Paso | $45,000 – $48,000 |
Factors That Influence HVAC Salaries in Texas
While averages give a useful picture, an individual’s earnings depend on several concrete factors:
1. Experience Level
- Entry-level technicians (0–2 years of experience) often start near $18 per hour.
- Mid-career technicians (3–7 years) average $24–$27 per hour.
- Senior technicians and specialists (10+ years) can exceed $35 per hour.
2. Certifications and Training
In Texas, HVAC technicians must hold an EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants. Beyond that, additional certifications boost pay significantly. Examples include:
- NATE certification – Demonstrates advanced technical skills.
- HVAC Excellence Certification – Recognized nationwide, can help with higher-paying positions.
- Specialized refrigeration or energy efficiency credentials – Often lead to higher pay in commercial or industrial sectors.
3. Employer Type
- Residential contractors generally pay on the lower end.
- Commercial/industrial employers tend to offer higher wages due to system complexity.
- Government or institutional jobs (universities, hospitals, municipalities) often provide stable pay and strong benefits.
4. Location
Texas is large and diverse. HVAC salaries align with both cost of living and demand. High-growth cities with ongoing construction projects typically pay more.
5. Union Membership
While not as common in Texas as in other states, HVAC union members often earn higher wages and enjoy better benefits.
Demand for HVAC Technicians in Texas
Texas consistently ranks among the top states for HVAC employment. According to the BLS, Texas has one of the highest employment levels for HVAC mechanics and installers in the U.S. The growth is driven by:
- Hot climate – Air conditioning is essential for most of the year.
- Population growth – Texas cities are expanding rapidly, leading to more construction.
- Energy sector and industrial facilities – Require specialized HVAC and refrigeration expertise.
Projected job growth for HVAC in Texas over the next decade is 5–8%, keeping salaries competitive and ensuring job security.
Comparison of Texas HVAC Salaries to National Averages
It’s also important to compare Texas HVAC salaries with the national average.
- National average HVAC salary (2025): Around $57,000 annually
- Texas average HVAC salary: Around $52,000 – $56,000 annually
This shows Texas HVAC salaries are slightly below the national average overall. However, Texas has a lower cost of living than many states, particularly compared to California or New York, meaning wages stretch further.
In addition, Texas offers more job opportunities in HVAC due to its size and climate, making it a strong career choice even if average salaries are slightly lower.
Benefits and Perks in Texas HVAC Jobs
Salary isn’t the only factor—many HVAC positions come with benefits that improve overall compensation packages. Common perks include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plans (401k, pension in some government jobs)
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Overtime pay opportunities
- Company vehicles and fuel allowances
- Tool and uniform allowances
- Tuition reimbursement for certifications
These benefits can add thousands of dollars in value to a technician’s total compensation annually.
Entry-Level HVAC Salaries in Texas
For those just starting out, HVAC remains an attractive option. Entry-level salaries in Texas average $37,000 – $42,000 per year, which is competitive for a career that requires only a high school diploma plus technical training or apprenticeship.
Many technicians see significant wage increases within their first five years as they gain hands-on experience. Unlike careers that require years of college education and student loans, HVAC offers a quicker path to solid earnings.
High-Paying Specializations in Texas HVAC
Not all HVAC roles are the same. Certain specialties command higher wages, particularly in Texas’s commercial and industrial markets. Examples include:
- Commercial refrigeration technicians – Highly paid due to the technical nature of refrigeration systems.
- HVAC controls specialists – Focus on modern building automation systems.
- Industrial HVAC technicians – Work in energy plants, refineries, and factories.
- Chiller and boiler technicians – Require advanced training and often earn higher wages.
These specialized roles can push salaries above $80,000 annually, particularly for those with certifications and years of experience.
Career Advancement Opportunities
One reason HVAC is considered a strong career path is the opportunity for advancement. In Texas, technicians can move up to:
- Lead technician – Supervising crews and projects.
- HVAC manager or supervisor – Handling company operations.
- Business owner – Many experienced technicians open their own HVAC companies in Texas.
- Estimator or project manager – Overseeing large-scale commercial projects.
Each step upward typically comes with a significant increase in salary and benefits.
The HVAC industry in Texas is not only stable but also poised for growth. Several factors ensure that salaries will remain competitive in the coming years:
- Population Growth – Texas consistently ranks among the fastest-growing states in the U.S. With more people comes more residential and commercial construction, directly increasing demand for HVAC systems.
- Extreme Climate – Long, hot summers and occasional cold snaps make air conditioning and heating non-negotiable, driving constant service needs.
- Technology Integration – Smart home systems and building automation are expanding, creating opportunities for technicians with additional training.
- Energy Efficiency Demand – Texas energy consumption is among the highest in the country, and stricter efficiency standards will require skilled technicians to upgrade and maintain advanced systems.
According to the BLS, HVAC employment nationwide is projected to grow 5% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. In Texas, where demand is stronger, growth is expected to be even more robust. This should keep salaries climbing, particularly for technicians who adapt to new technologies.
Apprenticeships and Training Programs in Texas
For those interested in HVAC as a career, Texas offers numerous pathways through apprenticeships, vocational schools, and technical colleges.
- Apprenticeships – Many technicians start with apprenticeships, where they earn while they learn. Programs typically last 3–5 years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices in Texas can expect to start at $15–$17 per hour, with steady raises as skills develop.
- Technical Colleges and Trade Schools – Schools like Texas State Technical College, Houston Community College, and Austin Community College offer HVAC certificate and associate degree programs. Graduates often start at higher wages than untrained applicants.
- Union Programs – While union presence is smaller in Texas compared to other states, those who join benefit from structured training and higher wage scales.
By completing an apprenticeship or degree, technicians can accelerate their earning potential and reach mid-level salaries more quickly.
Cost of Living vs. HVAC Salaries in Texas
One of the biggest advantages of working in Texas is the relatively low cost of living compared to other states.
- Housing Costs – Texas home prices and rents remain below national averages, particularly outside of Austin.
- No State Income Tax – Texas is one of the few states that does not levy a state income tax, allowing HVAC workers to keep more of their paycheck.
- Everyday Expenses – Food, transportation, and utilities are generally affordable in most regions.
When comparing salaries in Texas with higher-paying states like California or New York, Texas HVAC wages may seem lower. However, the spending power of a $55,000 salary in Texas often matches or exceeds what someone might earn in a higher-cost state.
HVAC Salary vs. Other Trades in Texas
To put HVAC salaries in perspective, it’s useful to compare them to other skilled trades:
| Trade | Average Annual Salary (Texas) |
|---|---|
| Electrician | $54,000 – $58,000 |
| Plumber/Pipefitter | $56,000 – $60,000 |
| HVAC Technician | $52,000 – $56,000 |
| Automotive Mechanic | $46,000 – $49,000 |
| General Construction Worker | $41,000 – $45,000 |
While HVAC salaries are slightly lower than electricians or plumbers, they are higher than automotive and general construction trades. With certifications and specializations, HVAC earnings can quickly surpass other trades.
Gender and Diversity in the Texas HVAC Workforce
The HVAC industry in Texas, like elsewhere, has historically been male-dominated. However, there is a growing effort to attract more women and underrepresented groups into the trade. Organizations such as Women in HVACR and local trade schools are promoting diversity through scholarships and outreach programs.
Currently, women make up less than 5% of the HVAC workforce nationwide, but opportunities for growth are strong. Encouragingly, women in HVAC roles earn nearly the same as men, as pay is generally based on skill and certification rather than gender.
Work Conditions and Overtime Opportunities
Beyond base salaries, many HVAC technicians in Texas increase their earnings through overtime and emergency service calls.
- Overtime Pay – During the peak summer months, technicians often work extended hours, with overtime paid at 1.5 times the hourly rate.
- Emergency Calls – Some companies offer “on-call” pay for nights and weekends, which can significantly boost overall income.
- Seasonal Variation – Summer is the busiest season, but heating demand spikes during unexpected winter storms, like the 2021 Texas freeze.
These conditions mean motivated technicians often exceed the average salary by putting in extra hours during high-demand periods.
Self-Employment and Business Ownership in Texas HVAC
Many experienced HVAC professionals in Texas eventually move into self-employment or business ownership.
- Independent Contractors – Skilled technicians can contract directly with homeowners or businesses.
- Small HVAC Companies – Texas has thousands of small HVAC businesses, often started by former technicians.
- Earnings Potential – Business owners in HVAC can earn well into six figures, though earnings depend on business success and overhead costs.
Texas is considered one of the best states for HVAC entrepreneurship due to its business-friendly climate, lack of state income tax, and constant demand.
Licenses Required to Work HVAC in Texas
To legally work in HVAC in Texas, technicians must meet licensing requirements set by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
- Registered Technician – Entry-level status; must work under a licensed contractor.
- Certified Technician – Requires passing exams and meeting experience requirements.
- Contractor License – Required for those running their own business.
Holding higher-level licenses not only allows more independence but also increases earning potential. Employers often pay more for licensed and certified workers because they can take on greater responsibility.
Job Satisfaction and Career Longevity
Surveys show that many HVAC technicians in Texas report high job satisfaction due to:
- Job stability – Constant demand in a hot climate.
- Variety of work – Each job site brings new challenges.
- Opportunities for advancement – Clear pathways from apprentice to manager or owner.
However, technicians also face physical demands such as working outdoors in heat, climbing ladders, and handling heavy equipment. These factors should be considered by anyone entering the trade.
Resources for Texas HVAC Professionals
For those seeking to maximize salary and career opportunities, several organizations and resources are available:
- Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association (TACCA) – Offers networking, training, and advocacy.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – Provides updated wage and employment data.
- Texas Workforce Commission – Lists job openings and workforce development programs.
- Community Colleges and Trade Schools – Offer HVAC certifications and degrees statewide.
Conclusion
The HVAC industry in Texas is both essential and rewarding. With average salaries ranging from $52,000 to $56,000 annually, technicians earn competitive wages while enjoying strong job security. Pay varies by city, experience, and specialization, but opportunities to grow earnings through certifications, overtime, and business ownership are abundant.
For Texans considering a trade career, HVAC offers a pathway to stable income, advancement opportunities, and independence in a field that will remain in demand for decades.