Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer Hourly Pay in Tupelo, MS: $23.33 (2026)

Focusing on part-time structures, a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanic and installer working just three days a week can still manage substantial earnings compared to their full-time counterparts. For instance, if one works an average of 24 hours weekly at $23.33, the annual take-home would be approximately $29,858. For professionals who engage in per diem work, particularly for out-of-town HVAC projects, the pay structure can be quite lucrative, with daily rates ranging from $80 to $150 on top of an hourly base rate of $30 to $55. This is significantly augmented in residential service sectors, where minimum fees for service calls can range between $90 and $180. In Tupelo, hourly rates vary depending on the employer type; residential service companies, commercial contractors, and self-employed professionals each bring unique dynamics to compensation negotiations. Some mechanics accept lower hourly wages in exchange for benefits like health insurance, while others prefer higher rates without health coverage. Understanding these trade-offs is crucial in negotiations, especially in a market where certain contractors wield more influence over hourly pay due to their reputation or volume of work.