Ann Arbor vs Lansing: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer Salary (2026)
Compare heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Lansing, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $73,972▲ | $59,611 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.57▲ | $28.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,981▲ | $39,482 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,875▲ | $47,254 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,978▲ | $76,428 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,922▲ | $92,198 |
| Total Employed | 460 | 490▲ |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lansing.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Lansing is $14,361 (24.09%). Ann Arbor's median is +22.93% compared to the US national median of $60,174.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $53,941,Lansing spans $52,716. Ann Arbor 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, Ann Arbor ($73,327 effective) pays 16.85% more than Lansing ($62,754 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,972/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,922)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $73,327)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries in Ann Arbor grew 1.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -4.1% growth in Lansing over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$70,140 (2019) → $71,250 (2025)
Lansing, MI
$59,870 (2019) → $57,418 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers more: Ann Arbor or Lansing?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Lansing?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Lansing as a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer?
What do entry-level heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers earn in Ann Arbor vs Lansing?
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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