Detroit HVAC Techs Are Raking In $71K+ in 2025 — Here’s Why Pay Is Exploding
Detroit HVAC technicians are earning $71K+ in 2025 — 19% higher than the U.S. average. From auto plants to high-rise retrofits, here’s the real data behind Detroit’s HVAC salary surge and how techs are hitting six figures.
The 2025 Detroit HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Industrial Income
HVAC technicians in Detroit earned an average of $71,000 in 2025—19% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Detroit averages $71K, while Warren pays $73K and Dearborn $72K.
Whether you're considering moving to Detroit 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 Detroit's automotive sector and infrastructure upgrades create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Detroit HVAC tech salary: $71,000/year
- Detroit: $71K | Warren: $73K | Dearborn: $72K
- Entry-level: $50K-$60K
- Senior/foreman: $90K-$110K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$7K-$12K), Michigan Mechanical Contractor License
- Union: UA Local 636
Detroit's HVAC market is driven by manufacturing facilities, automotive plants, and harsh winters that require reliable heating systems. From Ford assembly lines to revitalized downtown developments, extreme seasonal swings and industrial modernization create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Detroit is approximately $71,000 annually, or $34.10 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's moderate cost of living and strong manufacturing base, exceeding the national median by 19%.
Entry-level technicians earn $50,000-$60,000, while certified senior techs with overtime can exceed $105,000.
Overtime potential adds an average of $6,750 annually through emergency calls and seasonal peaks. Total compensation packages, including bonuses and benefits, range from $65,000 to $105,000, with a median of $78,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Detroit techs average $32-$37 hourly. Indeed reports $34.17 base, while Glassdoor notes $35 with OT potential. Specialists in industrial systems or BMS reach $42+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $66,560-$76,960, before benefits.
Union positions or automotive contracts often include health, pensions, and tool allowances, adding 20-35% in value.
HVAC Technician Salary by City in the Detroit Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit | $71,000 | $34.10 | Automotive plants and hospitals drive commercial volume; OT peaks during winter emergencies. |
| Warren | $73,500 | $35.34 | Manufacturing zones prioritize heavy-duty maintenance; premiums for union-scale work. |
| Dearborn | $72,000 | $34.62 | Ford facilities focus on precision retrofits; steady industrial projects. |
| Livonia | $70,000 | $33.65 | Suburban residential growth supports consistent service calls; balanced demand. |
| Troy | $71,200 | $34.23 | Tech-adjacent offices demand energy-efficient upgrades; commercial-residential mix. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $50,000-$60,000/year. Apprenticeships at Wayne County Community College or UA Local 636 accelerate entry.
- Mid-Level (3-6 years): $65,000-$85,000. Lead roles in plant retrofits fit here.
- Senior (7+ years): $90,000-$110,000+. Foremen average $102,000.
Certifications and Education
EPA 608 is required. NATE or Michigan Mechanical Contractor License adds $7,000-$12,000 annually. Programs at Wayne County Community College boost starts by 15%.
Specialization
Industrial boilers, automotive climate control, or energy-efficient retrofits command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Detroit's extreme 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 $95,000.
How Does Detroit Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Detroit's 19% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to manufacturing projects. This places Detroit among mid-tier metros, comparable to Cleveland and Cincinnati.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Detroit (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Detroit's growth is projected at 8% due to automotive modernization and infrastructure upgrades. Expect 400+ annual openings as industrial revival and weather resilience drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Detroit
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $7,000-$12,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on industrial or automotive systems for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 636 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Detroit for volume, Warren for manufacturing premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Michigan Saves efficiency training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $100,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Detroit Worth It?
Detroit offers HVAC technicians above-average pay, consistent work, and opportunities in a revitalizing industrial market. With proper certifications and specialization, earning $100,000+ annually is realistic.
Ready to start? Check Wayne County Community College or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit, MI
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit, MI
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit, MI
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit, MI
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Michigan
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Detroit, MI
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Michigan
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Detroit, MI
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Detroit, Warren, Dearborn, Livonia, and Troy.
