HVAC Technician in San Angelo, TX

The Salary Picture: Where San Angelo Stands

If you're an HVAC technician looking at San Angelo, the first thing to know is that the local market pays slightly below the national median, but the lower cost of living more than makes up for it. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the San Angelo metropolitan area, the median annual salary for HVAC technicians is $54,150/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $26.03/hour. For context, the national average for the same occupation sits at $55,670/year. So, you're looking at a difference of about $1,500 annually before considering local purchasing power.

The job market itself is modest but steady. The metro area has 194 jobs specifically for HVAC technicians, and the 10-year job growth projection is 6%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's stable, and it reflects the ongoing demand for climate control in a region where summers are long and hot. The steady growth is driven by new construction, the replacement of aging systems in older homes, and the increasing complexity of modern HVAC systems requiring specialized service.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Here’s how salaries typically progress within the San Angelo market, based on industry trends and local job postings:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$42,000 - $48,000	$20.19 - $23.08
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$50,000 - $58,000	$24.04 - $27.88
Senior (5-10 years)	$58,000 - $67,000	$27.88 - $32.21
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$65,000 - $75,000+	$31.25 - $36.06+

Note: These ranges are synthesized from local job postings and BLS percentile data for the region. The median of $54,150 sits squarely in the mid-level range, which is where most seasoned technicians in the area are located.

Comparison to Other Texas Cities

San Angelo isn't a major metro like Houston or Dallas, and the salary reflects that. However, it's important to see how it stacks up against other Texas cities with similar climates and economies.

• San Angelo vs. Larger Texas Cities: Technicians in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro earn a median of $59,420, about $5,000 more annually. However, the cost of living in Dallas is roughly 25% higher than the national average, compared to San Angelo's 9.1% lower than average. In Houston, the median is $58,110, but housing costs are significantly higher. Austin's median is $60,280, but the cost of living is one of the highest in the state.
• San Angelo vs. Similar-Sized Texas Cities: Places like Abilene or Midland-Odessa have comparable salaries (Abilene's median is $54,680), but Midland's booming oil and gas sector can push HVAC wages higher, though it comes with a higher cost of living and a more volatile job market. San Angelo's economy is more diversified and stable, anchored by education (Angelo State University), healthcare (San Angelo Community Medical Center), and the military (Goodfellow Air Force Base).

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the top-line number. A technician in San Angelo with $54,150 has more purchasing power than one in Austin earning $60,280. The key is to target employers who offer benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime, which are common among the larger local companies.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A salary of $54,150 isn't just a number; it's what you have to live on. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single person in San Angelo, factoring in taxes and the local housing market.

• Gross Monthly Income: $54,150 / 12 = $4,512.50
• Estimated Take-Home (after 25% for taxes/benefits): ~$3,384
• Average 1BR Rent: $927/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	% of Take-Home
Rent (1BR)	$927	27%
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$250	7%
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	13%
Fuel (For Work Truck/Personal Vehicle)	$180	5%
Groceries	$400	12%
Health Insurance (if not covered)	$300	9%
Savings/Retirement	$400	12%
Discretionary/Other	$477	14%
Total	$3,384	100%

This budget is tight but manageable. The key is controlling the big three: rent, transportation, and food. San Angelo is a car-dependent city, so a reliable vehicle is non-negotiable. Many technicians use a personal vehicle for work and are reimbursed for mileage, which can offset fuel costs.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, but with qualifications. The median home price in San Angelo is approximately $260,000. For a 20% down payment, you'd need $52,000. With a good credit score (above 720) and no other major debt, a $54,150 salary could qualify you for a mortgage around $1,800 - $1,900/month, including taxes and insurance. That's higher than the average rent, but for a 3-bedroom home, it's a viable long-term investment, especially if you start with a smaller home or a condo. Many local lenders offer first-time homebuyer programs that can help with down payments.

Where the Jobs Are: San Angelo's Major Employers

The HVAC job market in San Angelo is dominated by a mix of large national chains, established local companies, and institutional employers. Here are the key players to target:

1. Temp Control Services: A leading local contractor specializing in both residential and commercial HVAC. They are known for their preventive maintenance contracts with businesses and have a steady hiring rate for experienced technicians. They often post jobs on their website and local job boards like Indeed.
2. San Angelo Community Medical Center: As one of the city's largest employers, the hospital has a dedicated facilities team that includes HVAC technicians. These roles offer excellent benefits, stable hours, and the opportunity to work on complex medical-grade systems. It's a highly sought-after position.
3. Goodfellow Air Force Base: The base employs civilian technicians for its facilities management. While federal jobs require security clearance and can be competitive, they offer unparalleled job security, federal benefits, and training opportunities. Keep an eye on USAJobs.gov for openings.
4. Carrabba's Mechanical Services: A well-regarded local company focused on commercial and industrial HVAC. They handle large-scale projects, including work for the San Angelo Independent School District and local manufacturing plants. They prefer technicians with EPA 608 certification and some commercial experience.
5. Angelo State University: The university maintains its own facilities department. These jobs are similar to hospital positions—stable, with good benefits and a focus on maintaining large, diverse building systems. They often hire from the local community and value reliability.
6. Sid Rich Service Company: A family-owned business that's been around for decades, handling residential and light commercial service. They have a strong reputation for customer service and are a great place for someone to learn the trade from the ground up.
7. Home Depot Pro & Local Supply Houses: While not direct employers, the supply houses like Crawford Supply and the Pro desk at Home Depot are hubs for networking. Technicians are often in and out, and hiring managers from local companies frequently visit these spots. Building a rapport here can lead to job leads.

Hiring Trends: The local market is currently favoring technicians with at least an EPA Section 608 Certification (Type II or Universal). There's a growing demand for technicians skilled in variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and smart home integration, which are becoming more common in new construction on the city's west side.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a straightforward but mandatory licensing process for HVAC technicians, administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

Requirements:

1. Licensing: You must hold a Class A Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor License to work independently or run your own business. For employees, you work under the company's license. To get your own, you need:
   • A minimum of 48 months of practical experience (documented and notarized).
   • Passing the TDLR-approved exam (ACR-A-2 for Class A).
   • Proof of financial responsibility (a surety bond or a letter of credit for $10,000).
   • Liability insurance of at least $100,000.
2. Certification: The most critical certification is the EPA Section 608 Certification, which is federally required for anyone who handles refrigerants. This is a non-negotiable prerequisite for most jobs. You can get it through a classroom course or online (though practical exams are required for Type II/Universal).

Costs (Approximate):

• EPA 608 Certification Course & Exam: $150 - $300
• TDLR License Exam Fee: $200
• License Application Fee: $115
• Surety Bond (for your own license): $500 - $1,500 (annual premium)
• Total Initial Investment (to get licensed): $1,000 - $2,000

Timeline to Get Started:

• Months 1-2: Obtain your EPA 608 certification (can be done in a week).
• Months 3-48: Gain the required 4 years of documented experience working under a licensed contractor.
• Month 49: Apply for the license exam, study (using TDLR-recommended materials), and schedule the test.
• Month 50: Pass the exam, secure your bond and insurance, and submit your application. Processing can take 4-6 weeks.

Insider Tip: Start working under a licensed contractor immediately. Keep a detailed, notarized log of your experience hours. Many local companies in San Angelo are willing to sponsor qualified employees for their license after they've proven themselves.

Best Neighborhoods for HVAC Technicians

Where you live in San Angelo can impact your commute, lifestyle, and budget. The city is spread out, but traffic is minimal compared to larger metros.

1. Southwest/Sonora Highway Area: This is where much of the new residential construction is happening. It's close to the South Loop (Loop 306) for easy access to most employers. You'll find a mix of older homes and new builds, meaning plenty of repair and replacement work. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,200 for a 1BR/2BR.
2. Meadow Creek/Oak Creek: A quiet, established neighborhood with older, well-maintained homes. It's centrally located, with a short commute to the hospital, downtown, and the base. The mature trees mean more shade, which is a plus for homeowners with older AC units. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR/2BR.
3. North Loop / Sherwood Way: This area is a commercial corridor but has many apartment complexes and rental homes. It's ideal for technicians who want to be near supply houses, restaurants, and the shopping centers. Commute to any job is rarely more than 20 minutes. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050 for a 1BR/2BR.
4. The Historic District (Downtown/Old Town): Living here means character and walkability, but with older homes that often need HVAC updates. It's close to the growing downtown arts and entertainment scene. However, parking can be tight, and some streets are narrow, which can be tricky for a work truck. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,200 for a 1BR/2BR (varies widely by property).
5. Lake Nasworthy Area: If you prefer a more rural, quiet lifestyle, the areas around Lake Nasworthy offer larger lots and a slower pace. Your commute will be longer (25-35 minutes to most jobs), but the peace and quiet can be worth it. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,400 for a 1BR/2BR or small house.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in San Angelo doesn't mean stagnating. The path to higher earnings is through specialization and advancement.

• Specialty Premiums: Technicians with certifications in commercial refrigeration (grocery stores, convenience stores) or geothermal systems can command a premium of $5-$10/hour above the standard rate. The same goes for those skilled in VRF systems and building automation controls. These skills are in demand at the hospital, university, and large commercial buildings.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Service Technician: Your starting point. Focus on diagnostics and repair.
  • Lead Technician: Oversee smaller crews and handle complex jobs.
  • Service Manager: Move into supervision, scheduling, and customer relations. This role often pays $70,000 - $85,000 locally.
  • Business Owner: Many successful local HVAC companies in San Angelo were started by former technicians. The market is large enough to support small, specialized shops, especially for commercial or industrial work.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 6% job growth is reliable. The biggest driver will be the replacement of R-22 systems as the phase-out continues. Technicians who master the new, eco-friendly refrigerants (like R-410A and the newer R-32) will be in the best position. Additionally, as San Angelo's population grows, new construction will continue, particularly on the west and south sides of the city.

The Verdict: Is San Angelo Right for You?

Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of making the move.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here than in major metros.	Limited High-End Specialization: Fewer opportunities for ultra-niche fields like data center cooling or large-scale industrial work.
Stable Job Market: Diverse economy (military, education, healthcare) provides stability.	Car-Dependent City: You need a reliable vehicle, and public transit is limited.
Short Commutes: Most jobs are within a 20-minute drive.	Summers are Brutal: HVAC work is non-stop from May to September. The heat and humidity can be draining.
Friendly, Tight-Knit Community: It's easier to build a reputation and network locally.	Slower Pace of Life: Limited nightlife and cultural amenities compared to Austin or Dallas.
Ample Work in Residential & Light Commercial: Plenty of single-family homes and local businesses to service.	Growth is Steady, Not Spectacular: Don't expect a booming job market.

Final Recommendation:
San Angelo is an excellent choice for a mid-career HVAC technician or someone looking to settle down, buy a home, and build a stable life. The financial math works, especially if you're willing to specialize. It's less ideal for a young, single technician seeking a vibrant social scene or someone looking to break into cutting-edge, high-tech commercial work immediately. For the right person, it offers a rare combination of solid earning potential, low living costs, and a supportive community where you can become a respected local expert.

FAQs

1. What's the demand like for entry-level HVAC technicians in San Angelo?
Demand is moderate. Most companies prefer to hire technicians with at least a 1-2 years of experience or a relevant trade school certificate. However, the best way to get your foot in the door is to apply for a helper/apprentice position with a local company. They will invest in your training, including getting your EPA 608 cert, in exchange for a commitment to work for them.

2. How do San Angelo's summers affect the work schedule?
The work is highly seasonal. From May to September, expect 50-60 hour weeks, especially during heatwaves. Overtime is common and can significantly boost your annual income (often adding $5,000 - $10,000 to your base pay). The off-season (October-April) is focused on maintenance, system checks, and furnace repair. It's a cycle you need to be prepared for physically and mentally.

3. Is a commercial license more valuable than a residential one in San Angelo?
Yes, absolutely. While residential work is steady, the real growth and higher pay are in commercial and institutional work. The hospitals, Goodfellow AFB, and large retail centers require technicians with commercial experience. If you can get your Class A license and gain commercial experience, you'll have a more lucrative and stable career path.

4. Are there unions for HVAC technicians in San Angelo?
The local union presence is limited compared to bigger cities. The main union is the United Association (UA) Local 325, which