HVAC Tech vs Machinist
Side-by-side salary, job growth, and training comparison for 2026
HVAC Tech
$57,300
National Median Salary
Total Jobs422,300
Annual Openings40,100
Training6 mo - 2 yr certificate
Machinist
$51,720
National Median Salary
Total Jobs384,700
Annual Openings35,400
Training1-2 yr certificate or apprenticeship
Metric
HVAC Tech
Machinist
Median Salary National, BLS 2023 | $57,300* | $51,720 |
Total Jobs Current employment | 422,300* | 384,700 |
Annual Job Openings New + replacement | 40,100* | 35,400 |
Training Time | 6 mo - 2 yr certificate | 1-2 yr certificate or apprenticeship |
* indicates higher/better value. Source: BLS OES 2023.
Top States for HVAC Techs
Alaska$84,670
Hawaii$79,320
Washington$76,540
Connecticut$75,890
Massachusetts$74,210
Top States for Machinists
Alaska$78,430
Connecticut$74,890
Washington$72,340
California$70,120
Massachusetts$68,450