Electricians vs HVAC Mechanics & Installers
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Electricians
HVAC Mechanics & Installers
Median Salary
$62,350
$59,810
10-Year Job Growth
+5.2%
+5.7%
Training Length
4-5 years
3-5 years
Typical Path
IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required
Apprenticeship or trade school (6-24 months) + on-the-job training; EPA Section 608 certification required
Salary difference: $2,540 (4.2%) in favor of Electricians
Who should choose Electricians?
Electricians may be the right fit if you're interested in install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures in buildings and other structures.
Typical path: IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required
Explore Electricians →Who should choose HVAC Mechanics & Installers?
HVAC Mechanics & Installers may be the right fit if you're interested in install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
Typical path: Apprenticeship or trade school (6-24 months) + on-the-job training; EPA Section 608 certification required
Explore HVAC Mechanics & Installers →Frequently Asked Questions
Electricians earn more on average. The national median salary for electricians is $62,350, which is $2,540 more than hvac mechanics & installers ($59,810).
Electricians typically require 4-5 years of training (IBEW apprenticeship or non-union apprenticeship; state journeyman license exam required). HVAC Mechanics & Installers typically require 3-5 years (Apprenticeship or trade school (6-24 months) + on-the-job training; EPA Section 608 certification required).
Electricians have a projected 10-year growth of 5.2%, while hvac mechanics & installers have a projected growth of 5.7%. HVAC Mechanics & Installers have slightly better growth prospects.