Key Takeaways

HVAC technicians earn a median of about $48,630 and can start working in 6–24 months — faster and cheaper than most comparable trades. Other trades like electrical and plumbing pay more at the median but require multi-year apprenticeships.

  • HVAC offers the fastest entry of the major trades (6–24 months)
  • Electricians and plumbers earn higher medians but train longer
  • Welding and auto mechanics pay similarly to HVAC
  • EE technicians earn more but need a 2-year degree
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