Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Salary in Charlotte, NC-SC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC

Median annual salary $57,950 -3.1% vs national
Median hourly $27.86
10th percentile $40,980
90th percentile $78,830
Employed locally 3,160
National median $59,810

Compare Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary & buying power

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Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
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    In Charlotte, NC-SC, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers earn a median annual salary of $57,950, which is slightly below the national median of $59,810. This equates to a median hourly wage of $27.86. When compared to the local area's median household income of $80,201, these mechanics' earnings represent roughly 72% of what an average household earns. Despite this discrepancy, the employment prospects for these professionals remain relatively stable with an estimated 3,160 individuals employed in the region and a low local unemployment rate of 3.60%. These figures suggest that while their salaries may not match up to the broader economic metrics, they still provide a solid income within their field.

    Entry-level Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers typically earn near the lower end of the salary range, with earnings at or slightly above the 10th percentile mark of $40,980 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can expect to reach or exceed the 75th percentile, earning upwards of $63,890 per year. The significant difference in compensation between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by factors such as accumulated skill sets, certifications, and years of experience within the trade. Additionally, those who attain a higher level of expertise may secure specialized roles that command premium wages, further widening the salary gap between newcomers and veteran workers in this occupation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $40,980
    25th
    $47,790
    50th (median)
    $57,950
    75th
    $63,890
    90th
    $78,830

    Charlotte economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.60% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $80,201 2023 • Census ACS
    Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary vs area income 72% Median Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary is 28% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers make per hour in Charlotte?

    The median hourly wage for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in Charlotte, NC-SC is $27.86, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $38.08 or more per hour.

    Is Charlotte above or below average for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salaries?

    The median Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary in Charlotte, NC-SC is 3.1% below the national median of $59,810. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in Charlotte?

    Entry-level Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (10th percentile) earn around $40,980 per year in Charlotte, NC-SC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $47,790.