Buffalo HVAC Technicians Are Earning $64K+ in 2025 — Beating the National Average by 7%
Buffalo HVAC technicians are earning $64K+ in 2025 — 7% above the national average. From Cheektowaga to Amherst, see where the biggest paychecks are and how industrial work and winter demand push techs toward six figures.
The 2025 Buffalo HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Industrial Income
HVAC technicians in Buffalo earned an average of $64,000 in 2025—7% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Buffalo averages $64K, while Cheektowaga pays $68K and Amherst $62K.
Whether you're considering moving to Buffalo for HVAC work or you're already here wondering if you're paid fairly, this guide breaks down exactly what techs earn across the metro area—and how Buffalo's industrial sector and harsh winters create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Buffalo HVAC tech salary: $64,000/year
- Buffalo: $64K | Cheektowaga: $68K | Amherst: $62K
- Entry-level: $48K-$58K
- Senior/foreman: $85K-$105K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$6K-$11K), New York HVAC License
- Union: UA Local 22
Buffalo's HVAC market is driven by manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, and severe winter weather that demands robust heating systems. From steel mills to university campuses, lake-effect snow and infrastructure upgrades create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Buffalo is approximately $64,000 annually, or $30.77 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's moderate cost of living and industrial base, exceeding the national median by 7%.
Entry-level technicians earn $48,000-$58,000, while certified senior techs with overtime can exceed $95,000.
Overtime potential adds an average of $6,750 annually through emergency calls and seasonal peaks. Total compensation packages, including bonuses and benefits, range from $58,000 to $95,000, with a median of $72,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Buffalo techs average $28-$33 hourly. Indeed reports $27.65 base, while Glassdoor notes $30 with OT potential. Specialists in industrial boilers or BMS reach $38+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $58,240-$68,640, before benefits.
Union positions or manufacturing contracts often include health, pensions, and tool allowances, adding 20-35% in value.
HVAC Technician Salary by City in the Buffalo Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo | $64,000 | $30.77 | Industrial plants and hospitals drive commercial volume; OT peaks during winter storms. |
| Cheektowaga | $68,300 | $32.83 | Airport facilities prioritize precision maintenance; premiums for union-scale work. |
| Amherst | $62,000 | $29.81 | Suburban residential growth supports steady service calls; balanced demand. |
| Tonawanda | $63,500 | $30.53 | Chemical plants focus on heavy-duty retrofits; consistent industrial projects. |
| Williamsville | $65,000 | $31.25 | Affluent enclaves demand high-efficiency upgrades; residential-commercial mix. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $48,000-$58,000/year. Apprenticeships at Erie 1 BOCES or UA Local 22 accelerate entry.
- Mid-Level (3-6 years): $62,000-$80,000. Lead roles in plant retrofits fit here.
- Senior (7+ years): $85,000-$105,000+. Foremen average $95,000.
Certifications and Education
EPA 608 is required. NATE or New York HVAC License adds $6,000-$11,000 annually. Programs at Erie 1 BOCES boost starts by 15%.
Specialization
Boiler systems, industrial refrigeration, or energy-efficient retrofits command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Buffalo's harsh winters ensure year-round demand.
Overtime and Shift Work
Emergency calls and 24/7 facility work pay 1.5-2x rates, helping many techs exceed $90,000.
How Does Buffalo Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Buffalo's 7% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to industrial projects. This places Buffalo among mid-tier metros, comparable to Rochester and Cleveland.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Buffalo (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Buffalo's growth is projected at 8% due to manufacturing revivals and infrastructure upgrades. Expect 200+ annual openings as weather resilience and development drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Buffalo
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $6,000-$11,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on industrial boilers or retrofits for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 22 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Buffalo for volume, Cheektowaga for industrial premiums.
Continuous learning: Free NYSERDA efficiency training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $95,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Buffalo Worth It?
Buffalo offers HVAC technicians above-average pay, consistent work, and opportunities in a revitalizing industrial market. With proper certifications and specialization, earning $95,000+ annually is realistic.
Ready to start? Check Erie 1 BOCES or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo, NY
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo, NY
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo, NY
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo, NY
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in New York
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Buffalo, NY
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in New York
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Buffalo, NY
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Amherst, Tonawanda, and Williamsville.
