HVAC Technician Salary in Chicago

There are many benefits of working as an HVAC technician, including job security, a good work-life balance, and being able to work with your hands. One of the best things about being an HVAC technician in Chicago, however, is the great pay.

As mentioned, the average wage for an HVAC technician in Chicago is $28.95 per hour and $59,790 annually. Your wage will depend a lot on your experience and where you live, however, as HVAC technician salaries in Chicago can range anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000. 

Here are the average HVAC salaries in Chicago by earnings percentile:

• 10%: $36,790 ($17.69/hr)
• 25%: $47,230 ($22.71/hr)
• 50%: $59,790 ($28.95/hr)
• 75%: $76,630 ($36.84/hr)
• 90%: $94,740 ($45.55/hr)

The average HVAC salary in Chicago of $59,790 is higher than the national average of $50,590 for HVAC technicians and $45,760 for all occupations nationwide. Also, HVAC technician jobs are expected to grow by about 5% from 2020 to 2030.

If you're interested in working in HVAC in Chicago, you may want to consider checking out our Online Chicago HVAC Training Program.

How experience affects HVAC salaries in Chicago

Your experience, who your work for, and other factors have a large impact on your salary as an HVAC technician in Chicago. 

For example, in 2020, the top 10% of HVAC technicians nationwide made $78,210, on average. On the other hand, the lowest 10% made $34,320.

Here’s a breakdown of average nationwide HVAC pay based on experience:

• Entry/Mid-Level (0-5 years of experience). The average entry/mid-level salary for an HVAC technician is around $22 per hour. This equals $45,760 per year.‍
• Senior Level (6-9 years). The average salary for a senior HVAC technician is $27.65 per hour. This equals $57,512 per year.‍
• Manager Level (10+ years). The average salary for an HVAC technician manager is $32.83 per year. This equals $68,286 per year.

Keep in mind that since HVAC techs in Chicago make more than the national average, you can expect all of the numbers mentioned above to be higher in Chicago.

HVAC salaries vs. other occupations in Chicago

Here is a look at how HVAC technician salaries in Chicago stack up to similar jobs in the city:

*Refers to the number of jobs per 1,000 residents

HVAC salaries in Chicago vs. nearby cities

Here is a look at how HVAC technician salaries in Chicago stack up to HVAC technician salaries in Illinois and other nearby cities:

*Refers to the number of jobs per 1,000 residents

Common benefits HVAC technicians in Chicago can expect

As an HVAC technician in Chicago, you can expect to receive all of the major benefits that employers offer, such as:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401k (sometimes with matching)
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Continuing education/training

How to improve your chances of getting a better HVAC salary in Chicago

There are some things you can do that can help you get a job as an HVAC technician or earn more money if you’re already one in Chicago, such as:

• Get certifications/more certifications. HVAC certifications demonstrate your experience and knowledge in various parts of the industry. Having one or more can help you get hired or advance your career.
• Join a union. Unions help HVAC technicians get better pay and benefits, access to training, improved workplace safety, and more of a say in the direction of the company. Search for your local HVAC union to learn more about what it offers and how to join.
• Stay on top of industry advancements. Like any job, staying on top of advancements in the field helps make sure you are up to date on the newest technologies and can always perform jobs to the best of your ability.
• Improve time management. Working efficiently (but effectively) as an HVAC technician helps the business’ bottom line while keeping customers happy. Try different time management strategies to figure out what works the best for you.
• Work on communication skills. Communicating well with management and customers is crucial to success as an HVAC technician. Make sure to always address customers politely, ask for permission before entering into different areas of their homes, and be clear about the work you’re doing and associated costs. Make sure to communicate any delays and issues with management ASAP and update them on your progress whenever possible.
• Start your own company. Once you have enough experience, there is no quicker way to multiply your earnings than by starting your own company. Though it requires years of HVAC experience and business acumen, you can quickly start earning well into the six figures (or more) by operating your own company instead of being a technician for one.

Learn More

• Average HVAC Technician Salary
• HVAC Technician Job Outlook
• HVAC Technician Career Overview
• How to Become an HVAC Technician