HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians are essential for maintaining comfortable and safe indoor environments. In Long Beach, CA, HVAC professionals enjoy competitive salaries due to the city’s growing residential and commercial construction, mild but varied climate, and ongoing demand for energy-efficient systems.
This guide provides a detailed look at HVAC technician salaries in Long Beach, CA in 2026, including average pay, salary by experience, key factors affecting earnings, job outlook, benefits, certifications, and comparisons with other major cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Long Beach, CA (2026)
Long Beach is known for offering higher salaries to skilled trades professionals compared to national averages, thanks to union work opportunities, a large service industry, and higher living costs.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $50,000 – $65,000 | $24 – $31 |
| Mid-level | $66,000 – $85,000 | $32 – $41 |
| Experienced | $90,000 – $110,000 | $43 – $53 |
| Master / Specialized | $115,000 – $140,000+ | $55 – $68+ |
Average HVAC technician salary in Long Beach:
👉 Around $82,000–$88,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience is a major factor in determining HVAC pay in Long Beach.
1. Entry-Level HVAC Technicians (0–2 Years)
Typically recent graduates from trade school or apprenticeships
Work under supervision
Focus on basic installation, maintenance, and residential repair
Average pay: $50,000 – $65,000/year
2. Mid-Level HVAC Technicians (3–6 Years)
Handle installations and troubleshooting independently
Work on residential and small commercial projects
Can perform system diagnostics and repairs efficiently
Average pay: $66,000 – $85,000/year
3. Experienced HVAC Technicians (7–10+ Years)
Work on large commercial systems or specialized HVAC units
Lead teams or manage projects
Higher hourly rates due to skill level and certifications
Average pay: $90,000 – $110,000/year
4. Master or Specialized Technicians
Handle complex systems such as industrial HVAC, refrigeration, or energy-efficient designs
Often contractors or business owners
Emergency service availability significantly increases earnings
Average pay: $115,000 – $140,000+ per year
Factors That Influence HVAC Technician Earnings
Several factors can significantly impact how much an HVAC technician earns in Long Beach:
Key Drivers
Level of certification and licensing (EPA Section 608, C-20 contractor license)
Union membership vs. non-union
Type of HVAC work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Overtime and emergency call availability
Experience with energy-efficient and eco-friendly systems
Business ownership or subcontracting
Technicians offering 24/7 emergency services often see substantial income boosts.
Certifications and Education That Increase Salary
While a college degree is not required, proper certification and technical training are crucial for higher pay.
High-Value Certifications
EPA 608 Certification (mandatory for handling refrigerants)
HVAC Excellence Certification
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification
C-20 Contractor License (California)
OSHA Safety Training
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Technical school or community college HVAC program
Apprenticeship (2–5 years)
Optional specialization certifications
Technicians with advanced certifications may earn 15–25% more than uncertified counterparts.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Long Beach (2026)
The HVAC industry in Long Beach is experiencing steady growth due to population increases, commercial construction, and energy-efficient regulations.
Key Trends
Residential remodeling and new home construction increasing demand
Commercial building upgrades and retrofits
Focus on green energy and HVAC efficiency
Aging infrastructure requiring maintenance and replacement
Shortage of skilled HVAC workers leading to competitive wages
Long Beach consistently reports strong demand for licensed and experienced HVAC technicians.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician in Long Beach
Beyond competitive salaries, HVAC professionals enjoy numerous benefits.
Typical Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans and pension options (especially for union members)
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Job stability in all economic climates
Opportunity to own a business or become a contractor
Hands-on, skill-based career with growth potential
Union technicians often receive some of the best benefits in the trade industry.
HVAC Technician Salary Comparison: Long Beach vs Other Cities (2026)
Long Beach ranks favorably among U.S. cities for HVAC salaries.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Long Beach, CA | $82,000 – $88,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| San Diego, CA | $78,000 – $87,000 |
| San Francisco, CA | $95,000 – $105,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Houston, TX | $62,000 – $72,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $68,000 – $78,000 |
While San Francisco offers slightly higher pay, Long Beach provides competitive wages with more abundant job opportunities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Long Beach
Long Beach has a relatively high cost of living, but HVAC salaries are adjusted to compensate.
Key Considerations
Higher pay offsets housing and living expenses
Overtime can significantly increase take-home income
Many technicians live in nearby cities to reduce housing costs
Union wages improve financial stability
With careful budgeting, HVAC technicians in Long Beach can maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Long Beach
The job outlook for HVAC technicians in Long Beach is very positive through 2030.
Reasons for Strong Outlook
Essential trade not easily automated
Constant demand for installation, repair, and maintenance
Growth in energy-efficient and green HVAC systems
Population growth and new construction projects
HVAC is considered one of the most recession-resistant trades, providing excellent long-term career stability.
Is HVAC a Good Career in Long Beach in 2026?
Yes. HVAC offers:
Strong earning potential without a college degree
High job security and growth opportunities
Options for specialization or business ownership
Hands-on, rewarding work in a stable industry
For individuals willing to complete training, apprenticeships, and obtain certifications, HVAC in Long Beach remains a highly attractive career path.
Conclusion
In 2026, the HVAC technician salary in Long Beach, CA reflects the city’s high demand for skilled professionals and growing construction sector. With average salaries nearing $85,000 annually and strong job security, HVAC is a lucrative and future-proof career choice. Technicians with experience, certifications, and specialization enjoy higher earnings and excellent benefits, making Long Beach one of the best cities for HVAC professionals in California.