Avionics Technicians vs. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics: Who Earns More?
Avionics Technicians out-earn Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics by $32K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Avionics Technicians land at $82,280 and Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics at $50,620. The education gap is real: avionics technician programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while automotive service technicians and mechanic programs require postsecondary nondegree award. Top-paying state for Avionics Technicians is Pennsylvania ($117,470); for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics it's District of Columbia ($68,660).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Avionics Technicians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Avionics Technicians or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Avionics Technicians earn more nationally. The median is $82,280 for Avionics Technicians versus $50,620 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, a difference of $32K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Avionics Technicians or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Avionics Technicians has the better 10-year outlook at 8.2% projected growth, compared to 4.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Avionics Technicians or Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Avionics Technicians typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics requires postsecondary nondegree award. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Avionics Technicians get paid the most?
Pennsylvania is the top-paying state for Avionics Technicians at $117,470/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Avionics Technicians vs. Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In New Jersey, Avionics Technicians earn $100,250 vs. $56,610 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.