How to Become a Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in California
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in California earn a median salary of $65,290/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers takes home approximately $2,921/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers can afford in California
Becoming a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California
Meet education requirements
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves long-term on-the-job training in California. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 34,020 heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $84K | $40.38/hr | 2,050 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $80K | $38.58/hr | 190 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $77K | $36.9/hr | 3,610 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $75K | $36/hr | 260 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $72K | $34.7/hr | 2,810 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $72K | $34.41/hr | 560 |
| Napa | $71K | $33.99/hr | 90 |
| Vallejo | $66K | $31.89/hr | 440 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $66K | $31.55/hr | 440 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $65K | $31.16/hr | 9,420 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $65K | $31.15/hr | 3,030 |
| Merced | $65K | $31.05/hr | 190 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $64K | $30.61/hr | 780 |
| Modesto | $64K | $30.61/hr | 430 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $64K | $30.55/hr | 5,380 |
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary range in California
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers make in California?▼
The median heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers salary in California is $65,290 per year ($31.39/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $59,810. Salaries range from $46,980 to $107,600.
What are the requirements to become a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California?▼
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $65,290, a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California would take home approximately $4,333/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($83,980), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($80,240), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($76,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $65,290 salary, this means roughly $2,321/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.