Use the same reference period to compare these four occupations. Select a trade to focus the table, or compare all four. All amounts below are U.S. national median annual wages for May 2025; they do not describe apprentice pay or a specific city.
| Occupation | Median annual wage | Projected growth 2025–2035 | Typical training | Wage year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $63,190 | 9% | Apprenticeship, commonly 4–5 years | 2025 |
| Plumber | $63,800 | 7% | Apprenticeship, commonly 4–5 years | 2025 |
| HVAC Technician | $61,010 | 11% | Postsecondary instruction, commonly 6 months–2 years, plus workplace training | 2025 |
| Welder | $53,750 | 2% | High school or equivalent plus technical instruction and workplace training | 2025 |
Make an honest wage comparison
A median is the midpoint of the wage distribution: half of workers earned less and half earned more. It is not an average starting offer. Compare local entry-level advertisements and ask employers about the hours, overtime, benefits, travel and wage progression attached to an actual role.
BLS occupational wage estimates exclude self-employed workers; they are not estimates of contractor business revenue or profit.
Understand the groups
The plumbing series combines plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters. The welding series combines welders, cutters, solderers and brazers. HVAC covers heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers. These categories do not isolate every specialty, certificate or license level.
Read growth separately from pay
A higher projected percentage does not by itself mean a better job for you. It describes expected change in national employment over a decade, not a promise about one applicant or one local labor market. Read the full career guide to compare the work and entry route.
Sources & verification
Sources checked October 19, 2026. Statistical reference dates are stated separately. Official application rules may change.