HVAC Jobs in Chicago, IL
Find HVAC technician, installer, and apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL. The metro employs about 7,210 HVAC pros earning an average of $79,340 per year.
$79,340
Avg Salary
7,210
HVAC Employed
Salary Distribution
10th Pct
$47,460
entry-level
25th Pct
$61,050
early career
Median
$77,960
typical wage
75th Pct
$96,790
experienced
90th Pct
$117,940
senior tech
Wage data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025.
Cost of Living
Disposable Income
$36,659
After taxes and 2-bedroom rent, per year
How we calculated this
$79,340
$9,296
$6,070
$3,928
$60,047
$23,388
$36,659
2BR rent based on HUD Fair Market Rent of $1,705/month for the metro.
Federal and FICA tax computed for a single filer using the standard deduction. State income tax uses state-specific brackets where applicable. Annual rent derived from HUD 2024 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a 2-bedroom unit in this metro area.
Industry Snapshot
Contracting Businesses
671
AC & refrigeration · NAICS 238222
HVAC Mechanics Employed
7,210
SOC 49-9021 · BLS OEWS
Establishment data from BLS QCEW NAICS 238222. Employment Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025. Some smaller metros suppressed by BLS privacy rules.
Climate Profile
5A
Cool-Humid
Chicago is in a Cool-Humid zone where heating demand defines the HVAC market. Furnace and boiler work, heat pump installations, and emergency winter service make up the bulk of technician work, with shorter but real summer cooling demand.
Climate zone classification per IECC 2021 (International Energy Conservation Code).
Getting Started
Step 1 · License
See requirements, cost, and how to apply on the state page.
Step 2 · Train
Earn while you learn. See verified union and non-union HVAC apprenticeship programs across Texas.
Step 3 · School
Compare HVAC trade school programs — length, cost, and credential focus.
Each step links to the Texas state page for full details. Texas-specific requirements may vary by city or county.
