Albany vs Rochester: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer Salary (2026)
Compare heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries between Albany, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,135▲ | $62,699 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.31▲ | $30.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,859▲ | $45,231 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,390▲ | $50,193 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,513 | $77,937▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $96,470▲ | $89,940 |
| Total Employed | 1,450 | 1,850▲ |
Verdict
Albany, NY offers better overall compensation for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Albany and Rochester is $2,436 (3.89%). Albany's median is +8.24% compared to the US national median of $60,174.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $49,611,Rochester spans $44,709. Albany has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Albany ($65,419 effective) pays 1.24% more than Rochester ($64,615 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,135/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,470)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,419)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,850 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries in Albany grew 2.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 27.9% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Albany, NY
$60,980 (2019) → $62,738 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$47,230 (2019) → $60,392 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers more: Albany or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albany and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Albany to Rochester as a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer?
What do entry-level heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers earn in Albany vs Rochester?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, HVAC Technician
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in HVAC systems. He specializes in residential installation and maintenance.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.82% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, HVAC Technician, a licensed heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov