Plumber vs HVAC Technician: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Plumber
Install and repair pipes, fixtures, and plumbing systems in buildings.
HVAC Technician
Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Plumber earns more on average — the national median is $4,000/year (7%) higher than a HVAC Technician. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Plumber vs HVAC Technician — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Plumber | HVAC Technician | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $90,412 | $84,336 | Plumber +$6,076 |
| New York, NY | $74,492 | $69,410 | Plumber +$5,082 |
| Seattle, WA | $86,433 | $81,064 | Plumber +$5,369 |
| Austin, TX | $68,479 | $66,728 | Plumber +$1,751 |
| Chicago, IL | $65,596 | $63,053 | Plumber +$2,543 |
| Boston, MA | $83,325 | $77,663 | Plumber +$5,662 |
| London, UK | £47,528 | £46,043 | Plumber +$1,485 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$81,287 | CA$78,499 | Plumber +$2,788 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Plumber or HVAC Technician earn more?+
A Plumber earns more on average. The national median salary for a Plumber is $62,000/year, compared to $58,000/year for a HVAC Technician — a difference of $4,000 (7%).
Which has better career growth — Plumber or HVAC Technician?+
Plumber roles are growing at 5% YoY while HVAC Technician demand is growing at 5% YoY. HVAC Technician has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Plumber to HVAC Technician?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Plumber or HVAC Technician?+
Plumber has a lower AI automation risk (10% vs 12%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.