Automotive Service Technician Salary in the United States
Based on 705K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$52,179
$25.086/hr
▲ 3.1% vs 2024Salary Range
$46K – $90K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
705K
workers nationwide
Automotive Service Technician salary in the United States averages $50,586 per year, according to current employment data. The field employs approximately 688,880 workers nationwide, making it a substantial segment of the skilled trades workforce. Compensation varies significantly across the country, with salaries ranging from $43,800 at the lower end to $90,250 for experienced technicians in high-demand markets.
Several factors influence earning potential in this profession. Geographic location plays a major role, as technicians in urban areas and regions with higher costs of living typically command higher wages. Experience level, specialized certifications, and the type of facility—whether independent shops, dealerships, or fleet services—also impact compensation. Technicians who develop expertise in specific vehicle systems or newer technologies often access better-paying positions within the field.
Salary Distribution — Automotive Service Technician
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $46,230 |
| 25th percentile | $56,530 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $52,179 |
| 75th percentile | $78,770 |
| 90th percentile | $89,960 |
Automotive Service Technician Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Automotive Service Technician
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | $68,660 | +31.6% | 310 |
| 2 | California | $64,980 | +24.5% | 65K |
| 3 | Colorado | $61,280 | +17.4% | 12K |
| 4 | Alaska | $60,840 | +16.6% | 1K |
| 5 | Massachusetts | $60,760 | +16.4% | 13K |
| 6 | Connecticut | $60,220 | +15.4% | 7K |
| 7 | Virginia | $59,330 | +13.7% | 18K |
| 8 | New Hampshire | $59,020 | +13.1% | 5K |
| 9 | Montana | $58,740 | +12.6% | 3K |
| 10 | Oregon | $58,520 | +12.2% | 7K |
Historical Salary Trend — Automotive Service Technician
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $46,532 |
| 2023 | $47,903 |
| 2024 | $50,586 |
| 2025 | $52,179 |
Automotive Service Technician Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do automotive service technicians make per hour?
- The median hourly wage for automotive service technicians in the United States is $24/hour, which translates to an annual salary of $50,586. However, hourly rates can vary significantly depending on location, experience, and employer.
What is the salary range for automotive service technicians?
- Automotive service technician salaries in the United States range from $43,800 on the lower end to $90,250 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, certifications, location, and type of employer.
Which city pays automotive service technicians the most?
- The District of Columbia offers the highest pay for automotive service technicians at $71,030 per year, which is significantly higher than the national median of $50,586. This premium reflects the higher cost of living and demand in the nation's capital.
How many automotive service technicians are employed in the US?
- There are approximately 688,880 automotive service technicians employed across the United States, making it a substantial workforce in the automotive industry. This large employment base indicates steady demand for skilled technicians nationwide.