Milwaukee HVAC Techs Are Cashing In — $66K+ Average Pay in 2025 (10% Above U.S. Average)

The 2025 Milwaukee HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Industrial Income

HVAC technicians in Milwaukee earned an average of $66,000 in 2025—10% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Milwaukee averages $66K, while Waukesha pays $68K and West Allis $64K.
Whether you're considering moving to Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee's manufacturing sector and cold winters create premium opportunities.

Quick Answer:

• Average Milwaukee HVAC tech salary: $66,000/year
• Milwaukee: $66K | Waukesha: $68K | West Allis: $64K
• Entry-level: $48K-$58K
• Senior/foreman: $85K-$105K+
• Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$6K-$11K), Wisconsin HVAC Qualifier Certification
• Union: UA Local 75

Milwaukee's HVAC market is driven by manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, and severe winter weather that demands robust heating systems. From breweries to automotive suppliers, lake-effect snow and industrial modernization create consistent demand.

What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee?

In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Milwaukee is approximately $66,000 annually, or $31.70 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's moderate cost of living and manufacturing base, exceeding the national median by 10%.

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 $60,000 to $95,000, with a median of $73,000.

Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians

Milwaukee techs average $29-$34 hourly. Indeed reports $28.76 base, while Glassdoor notes $33 with OT potential. Specialists in industrial boilers or BMS reach $40+. 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 Milwaukee Area

Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee

Experience Level

• Entry-Level (0-2 years): $48,000-$58,000/year. Apprenticeships at Milwaukee Area Technical College or UA Local 75 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 Wisconsin HVAC Qualifier Certification adds $6,000-$11,000 annually. Programs at Milwaukee Area Technical College boost starts by 15%.

Specialization

Industrial boilers, refrigeration, or energy-efficient retrofits command 15-25% premiums.

Location and Demand

Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Milwaukee'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 Milwaukee Compare to the National Average?

Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Milwaukee's 10% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to manufacturing projects. This places Milwaukee among mid-tier metros, comparable to Indianapolis and Columbus.

Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Milwaukee (2025 and Beyond)

The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Milwaukee's growth is projected at 8% due to manufacturing revivals and infrastructure upgrades. Expect 300+ annual openings as industrial growth and weather resilience drive demand.

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How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Milwaukee

Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $6,000-$11,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on industrial or refrigeration systems for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 75 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Milwaukee for volume, Waukesha for industrial premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Focus on Energy efficiency training resources.

Combine these strategies to reach $95,000+ annually.

Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Milwaukee Worth It?

Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee Area Technical College or search current openings on Indeed.

This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.

Sources

• Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee, WI
• Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee, WI
• Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee, WI
• ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee, WI
• ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
• BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
• Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Wisconsin
• PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Milwaukee, WI
• Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Wisconsin
• SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Milwaukee, WI
  City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Milwaukee, Waukesha, West Allis, Brookfield, and Menomonee Falls.