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Put the tradeoffs
on one table.
Choose two or three paths and switch local context without letting missing state data turn into a made-up estimate.
Reviewed guidance
September 2, 2026
September 2, 2026
| Decision factor | Electrician | HVAC technician | Plumber |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 national median | $63,190 | $61,010 | $63,800 |
| 2025–35 growth | 9% | 11% | 7% |
| Typical preparation | 4–5 year apprenticeship | School commonly 6 months–2 years, plus long-term field learning | 4–5 year apprenticeship |
| Paid training | Common | Available, but less universal | Common |
| Licensing | Most states require an individual license | EPA Section 608 for covered refrigerant work; local rules vary | Most states and some localities license plumbers |
| Best fit if… | You like diagrams, systems, and exact safety rules | You like diagnosis and mixed mechanical/electrical systems | You like visible problem-solving and service work |
| Think twice if… | Heights or energized systems are dealbreakers | Temperature extremes or on-call work are dealbreakers | Emergency calls or sanitation exposure are dealbreakers |