Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 688,840 automotive service technicians and mechanics, and they earn a median of $49,670/year. The range runs from $34K to $81K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level automotive service technicians and mechanics start around $34K. The gap between that and the median ($50K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $81K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $71K | 270 |
| California | $63K | 62,110 |
| Alaska | $62K | 1,390 |
| New Hampshire | $58K | 4,510 |
| Washington | $58K | 13,740 |
| Maryland | $58K | 14,310 |
| Massachusetts | $57K | 12,390 |
| Minnesota | $57K | 13,500 |
| New Jersey | $57K | 16,820 |
| Montana | $57K | 2,720 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a automotive service technicians and mechanics make?▼
The median automotive service technicians and mechanics salary in the United States is $49,670 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $33,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,850.
What education do you need to become a automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for automotive service technicians and mechanics.
What are the highest paying states for automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
The highest paying states for automotive service technicians and mechanics are District of Columbia ($71,030), California ($63,370), Alaska ($61,950), New Hampshire ($58,460), Washington ($57,790). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.