Actuaries vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians: Who Earns More?
Actuaries out-earn Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians by $50K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Actuaries land at $130,000 and Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians at $79,870. The education gap is real: actuary programs typically require bachelor's degree, while aircraft mechanics and service technician programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Actuaries is Connecticut ($166,800); for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians it's New Jersey ($105,370).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Actuaries median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Actuaries or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Actuaries earn more nationally. The median is $130,000 for Actuaries versus $79,870 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, a difference of $50K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Actuaries or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Actuaries has the better 10-year outlook at 21.8% projected growth, compared to 4% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Actuaries or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Actuaries typically requires bachelor's degree. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Actuaries get paid the most?
Connecticut is the top-paying state for Actuaries at $166,800/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Actuaries vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Connecticut, Actuaries earn $166,800 vs. $96,830 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.