Trades & Labor South Dakota (SD) Rank #44 of 50

HVAC Technician Salary in South Dakota

The median hvac technician salary in South Dakota is $45,223 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $51,390.

Median Salary
$45,223
vs National
$-6,167
State Rank
#44 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

HVAC Technician Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #44 out of 50 states for hvac technician compensation. HVAC Technician salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,223 per year, hvac technicians in South Dakota earn $6,167 less than the national median of $51,390.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $45,223 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $51,390 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: hvac technicians at the 10th percentile earn $29,216, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,688 — a $43,472 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $47,279.

Nationally, hvac technician employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for hvac technicians across the country.

HVAC Technician Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level hvac technician earns around $28,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,640 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$28,160
$-3,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$45,760
$-6,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,640
$-9,360 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $29,216
25th Percentile $35,904
Median (50th) $45,223
75th Percentile $58,784
90th Percentile $72,688

HVAC Technician Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for hvac technicians in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a HVAC Technician in South Dakota

Education

Most hvac technician positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

HVAC SystemsRefrigerationElectrical BasicsTroubleshootingEPA CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, hvac technician employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: HVAC Technician Salary in South Dakota

How much does a HVAC Technician make in South Dakota? ▼
The median hvac technician salary in South Dakota is $45,223 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $51,390. Salaries range from $29,216 (10th percentile) to $72,688 (90th percentile).
How much does a HVAC Technician make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $45,223, a hvac technician in South Dakota earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for hvac technicians? ▼
South Dakota ranks #44 out of 50 states for hvac technician pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level hvac technicians earn $28,160, while senior professionals earn $68,640.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for hvac technician salary? ▼
The highest paying state for hvac technicians is Hawaii at $91,474. South Dakota's median of $45,223 ranks #44 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($45,737) and Missouri ($45,223).
What is the entry-level hvac technician salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level hvac technician in South Dakota earns approximately $28,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $45,760. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $68,640.
What city in South Dakota pays hvac technicians the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for hvac technicians, with a median salary of $47,279. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.