Cleveland HVAC Techs Are Banking $65K+ in 2025 — 9% Above the National Average
Cleveland HVAC Techs Are Banking $65K+ in 2025 — 9% Above the National Average
The 2025 Cleveland HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Industrial Income
HVAC technicians in Cleveland earned an average of $65,000 in 2025—9% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Cleveland averages $65K, while Lakewood pays $67K and Parma $63K.
Whether you're considering moving to Cleveland 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 Cleveland's industrial base and lake-effect winters create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Cleveland HVAC tech salary: $65,000/year
- Cleveland: $65K | Lakewood: $67K | Parma: $63K
- Entry-level: $48K-$58K
- Senior/foreman: $85K-$105K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$6K-$11K), Ohio HVAC Contractor License
- Union: UA Local 55
Cleveland's HVAC market is driven by manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, and severe lake-effect winters that demand robust heating systems. From steel mills to university campuses, seasonal extremes and industrial revitalization create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Cleveland is approximately $65,000 annually, or $31.25 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's moderate cost of living and industrial focus, exceeding the national median by 9%.
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 $59,000 to $95,000, with a median of $72,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Cleveland techs average $29-$34 hourly. Indeed reports $28.92 base, while Glassdoor notes $31 with OT potential. Specialists in industrial furnaces or BMS reach $39+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $60,320-$70,720, 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 Cleveland Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland | $65,000 | $31.25 | Industrial plants and hospitals drive commercial volume; OT peaks during winter storms. |
| Lakewood | $67,200 | $32.31 | Suburban residential growth supports steady service calls; premiums for union work. |
| Parma | $63,000 | $30.29 | Southwest manufacturing hubs focus on maintenance; balanced industrial demand. |
| Euclid | $64,500 | $31.01 | Lakeshore facilities require robust retrofits; consistent project volume. |
| Strongsville | $66,000 | $31.73 | Affluent areas demand energy-efficient upgrades; residential-commercial mix. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $48,000-$58,000/year. Apprenticeships at Cuyahoga Community College or UA Local 55 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 Ohio HVAC Contractor License adds $6,000-$11,000 annually. Programs at Cuyahoga Community College boost starts by 15%.
Specialization
Industrial furnaces, refrigeration, or energy-efficient retrofits command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Cleveland's lake-effect 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 Cleveland Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Cleveland's 9% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to industrial projects. This places Cleveland among mid-tier metros, comparable to Pittsburgh and Buffalo.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Cleveland (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Cleveland's growth is projected at 8% due to manufacturing revivals and infrastructure upgrades. Expect 250+ annual openings as industrial growth and weather resilience drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Cleveland
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $6,000-$11,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on industrial or furnace systems for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 55 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Cleveland for volume, Lakewood for residential premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Ohio Development Services Agency efficiency training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $95,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Cleveland Worth It?
Cleveland 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 Cuyahoga Community College or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland, OH
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland, OH
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland, OH
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland, OH
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Ohio
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Cleveland, OH
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Ohio
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Cleveland, OH
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Cleveland, Lakewood, Parma, Euclid, and Strongsville.
