CDL Truck Driver vs HVAC Technician: Salary, Training & Career Comparison
Trying to decide between a career as a cdl truck driver or an hvac technician? Here's a side-by-side look at the numbers that matter most: pay, job outlook, training requirements, and more.
| Category | 🚛 CDL Truck Driver | ❄️ HVAC Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Median Hourly | $24.20/hr | $25/hr |
| Median Annual | $50,300/yr | $52,000/yr |
| Job Growth (10-yr) | 4.0% | 6.0% |
| Total Jobs | 2,010,200 | 394,100 |
| Training Time | 3-6 months CDL training | 4-5 years |
| Top-Paying State | Alaska ($70,200/yr) | New York ($67,100/yr) |
| Union Rate | $30/hr (Teamsters) | $32/hr (SMART) |
Salary Comparison
CDL Truck Drivers earn about $1,700/yr more on average
Which Career Is Right for You?
Both cdl truck drivers and hvac technicians are solid career paths with good earning potential and strong job security. The best choice depends on your interests, physical abilities, and lifestyle preferences.
🚛 Choose CDL Truck Driver if...
CDL truck drivers haul freight across local routes or long-distance highways. The ongoing driver shortage means competitive pay, sign-on bonuses, and plenty of job options for qualified drivers.
CDL Truck Driver salary data →❄️ Choose HVAC Technician if...
HVAC techs install and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Demand spikes in summer and winter, and skilled techs can earn solid overtime pay.
HVAC Technician salary data →Training difference: HVAC requires much longer training (4-5 yrs vs 3-6 months)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. HVAC Technicians earn a slightly higher national median of $52,000/yr compared to $50,300/yr for cdl truck drivers.
HVAC Technician jobs are projected to grow at 6.0% over the next decade, compared to 4.0% for cdl truck drivers.
HVAC requires much longer training (4-5 yrs vs 3-6 months). Both paths require dedication and hands-on training, but the length and structure differ.
While some skills transfer between trades, switching typically requires additional training and licensing. That said, the foundational skills -- problem solving, working with tools, reading blueprints -- are valuable in any trade. Some workers complete training in multiple trades over their career.