Fuquay-Varina vs Raleigh: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer Salary (2026)
Compare heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries between Fuquay-Varina, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fuquay-Varina, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $53,665 | $58,092▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $25.80 | $27.93▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,478 | $38,623▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,239 | $46,829▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $65,506▲ | $64,455 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,798▲ | $76,763 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 2,550▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fuquay-Varina.
The salary gap between Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh is $4,427 (8.25%). Raleigh's median is -3.46% compared to the US national median of $60,174.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fuquay-Varina spans $43,320,Raleigh spans $38,140. Fuquay-Varina 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, Raleigh ($59,183 effective) pays 3.22% more than Fuquay-Varina ($57,334 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fuquay-Varina if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,798)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($58,092/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,550 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $59,183)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer salaries in Fuquay-Varina grew 8.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 20.4% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Fuquay-Varina, NC
$47,837 (2024) → $51,690 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$46,460 (2019) → $55,955 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fuquay-Varina, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers more: Fuquay-Varina or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Fuquay-Varina to Raleigh as a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer?
What do entry-level heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installers earn in Fuquay-Varina vs Raleigh?
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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