Derby vs Topeka: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer Salary (2026)
Compare heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries between Derby, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Derby, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,240 | $63,596▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $24.64 | $30.57▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,160 | $45,971▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $40,467 | $52,688▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $63,856 | $74,504▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $77,385 | $80,935▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Derby.
The salary gap between Derby and Topeka is $12,356 (24.11%). Topeka's median is +5.69% compared to the US national median of $60,174.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Derby spans $43,225,Topeka spans $34,964. Derby 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, Topeka ($71,601 effective) pays 27.02% more than Derby ($56,370 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Derby if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,596/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($80,935)
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $71,601)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries in Derby grew 2.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 0.1% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Derby, KS
$48,404 (2024) → $49,355 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$61,170 (2019) → $61,256 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers more: Derby or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Derby and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Derby to Topeka as a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer?
What do entry-level heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers earn in Derby vs Topeka?
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