Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians are essential for maintaining comfort and safety in homes and businesses. Plano, TX, with its growing population and expanding commercial sector, offers strong demand and competitive salaries for skilled HVAC professionals in 2026.
This guide covers average HVAC technician salaries in Plano, TX, earnings by experience, factors that influence pay, certifications, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with other cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Plano, TX (2026)
HVAC technicians in Plano typically earn more than the national average due to Texas’s hot climate, commercial development, and skilled labor demand.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $45,000 – $58,000 | $22 – $28 |
| Mid-Level | $60,000 – $75,000 | $29 – $36 |
| Experienced | $78,000 – $95,000 | $38 – $46 |
| Master / Specialized | $100,000 – $120,000+ | $48 – $58+ |
Average HVAC technician salary in Plano (2026):
👉 Around $72,000 – $78,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience strongly affects HVAC technician earnings in Plano.
1. Entry-Level HVAC Technicians (0–2 Years)
Work under supervision
Focus on basic installations, maintenance, and repairs
May earn slightly higher with overtime
Average pay: $45,000 – $58,000/year
2. Mid-Level HVAC Technicians (3–6 Years)
Handle more complex systems independently
Serve residential and light commercial projects
Often responsible for troubleshooting and preventative maintenance
Average pay: $60,000 – $75,000/year
3. Experienced HVAC Technicians (7–10+ Years)
Manage large commercial or industrial HVAC systems
Lead teams or train apprentices
Frequently eligible for performance bonuses
Average pay: $78,000 – $95,000/year
4. Master or Specialized HVAC Technicians
Expertise in advanced systems (refrigeration, industrial HVAC, smart HVAC)
Often run their own businesses or contract services
Emergency and seasonal work adds additional income
Average pay: $100,000 – $120,000+ per year
Factors That Influence HVAC Technician Earnings
Several factors directly impact salary potential in Plano:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of certification and licensing
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union membership vs. non-union
Overtime, emergency, or seasonal work
Specialized skills (refrigeration, green HVAC, ductless systems)
Business ownership or contracting
Technicians with emergency service availability or specialized skills often see the highest pay.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Formal certifications and training significantly increase earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
EPA Section 608 Certification (mandatory for refrigerant handling)
HVAC Excellence Certification
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification
OSHA Safety Certification
State licensing (if required for certain HVAC work)
Education Path
High school diploma or equivalent
Technical school or vocational training (6 months–2 years)
Apprenticeship programs
Ongoing certification renewal
Certified technicians typically earn 10–25% more than non-certified peers.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Plano (2026)
The HVAC job market in Plano is robust due to population growth, commercial construction, and climate demands.
Current Trends
Increased demand for energy-efficient and smart HVAC systems
Rapid residential development in suburban areas
Expansion of commercial and industrial facilities
Rising need for preventive maintenance contracts
Aging HVAC infrastructure replacement
Plano reports consistent openings for HVAC technicians, making job security strong and salaries competitive.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician in Plano
Beyond salary, HVAC technicians enjoy multiple perks and benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holiday pay
Overtime pay and weekend work premiums
Retirement plans and union benefits (if applicable)
Career advancement and business ownership opportunities
Recession-resistant employment due to essential services
Technicians in Plano enjoy strong demand year-round, especially during extreme weather conditions.
HVAC Technician Salary Comparison: Plano vs Other Cities (2026)
Plano offers competitive salaries compared to other major Texas and U.S. cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Plano, TX | $72,000 – $78,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $70,000 – $76,000 |
| Houston, TX | $68,000 – $74,000 |
| Austin, TX | $65,000 – $72,000 |
| San Antonio, TX | $62,000 – $70,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $65,000 – $73,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $67,000 – $75,000 |
Plano’s proximity to Dallas and high-tech commercial growth contribute to slightly higher wages than many Texas cities.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Plano
Plano has a moderate cost of living compared to other major Texas cities, making HVAC salaries attractive.
Key Takeaways
Housing and utilities are slightly above the state average
Higher salaries for certified and experienced technicians offset living costs
Technicians often live in suburban neighborhoods to reduce expenses
Overtime and specialized certifications enhance disposable income
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Plano
The future for HVAC technicians in Plano is strong, with consistent growth projected through 2030.
Reasons for Positive Outlook
Essential trade with minimal automation risk
Growing population and commercial development
Demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems
Retirements creating technician shortages
HVAC work is considered recession-resistant, offering stability and long-term growth potential.
Is HVAC a Good Career in Plano in 2026?
Yes. HVAC careers in Plano provide:
Competitive wages without a college degree
High demand and job security
Opportunities for specialization and business ownership
Potential for six-figure income for experienced technicians
With the right certifications and experience, HVAC is a strong, future-proof career choice in Plano, TX.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, HVAC technician salaries in Plano, TX reflect strong demand, skill requirements, and the city’s commercial and residential growth. With average wages nearing $75,000 and excellent job security, HVAC offers a lucrative and stable career. Technicians who pursue certifications and specialized skills will enjoy higher earnings and broader career opportunities, making Plano an attractive city for HVAC professionals.