HVAC Jobs in Columbia, SC
Find HVAC technician, installer, and apprentice jobs in Columbia, SC. The metro employs about 1,220 HVAC pros earning an average of $56,410 per year.
$56,410
Avg Salary
1,220
HVAC Employed
Salary Distribution
10th Pct
$39,460
entry-level
25th Pct
$47,900
early career
Median
$57,610
typical wage
75th Pct
$63,700
experienced
90th Pct
$73,830
senior tech
Wage data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025.
Cost of Living
Disposable Income
$27,377
After taxes and 2-bedroom rent, per year
How we calculated this
$56,410
$4,785
$4,315
$3,385
$43,925
$16,548
$27,377
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
100
AC & refrigeration · NAICS 238222
HVAC Mechanics Employed
1,220
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
3A
Warm-Humid
Columbia has a Warm-Humid climate where cooling demand drives the HVAC season. Expect a busy summer peak with AC service calls and condenser replacements, plus moderate winter work on heat pumps and gas furnaces.
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.
