Thor's HammerAviation maintenance is one of the most geographically sensitive careers in the industry. Where you live matters. States with strong airline hubs, heavy MRO activity, or large aerospace employers tend to pay more, while rural or low‑cost regions often fall closer to the national baseline.
National Salary Overview
Across the United States, A&P mechanics typically earn:
- Average salary: around $55,680–$67,131 annually
- 25th–75th percentile range: $48,740–$75,500
- Top earners (90th percentile): $73,944–$86,500+
This range reflects differences in experience, employer type, and—most importantly—location.
High‑Paying States for A&P Mechanics
Certain states consistently rank above the national average due to strong aviation ecosystems, higher living costs, or both.
High‑Paying States for A&P Mechanics
Certain states consistently rank above the national average due to strong aviation ecosystems, higher living costs, or both.
Alaska
Alaska frequently tops the charts. Remote operations, bush flying, and limited labor supply push wages well above national norms. Cities like Sitka show salaries nearly 30% above the U.S. average.
California
California’s combination of major airports, aerospace companies, and MRO facilities drives competitive pay. Technicians in Mojave and other high‑demand regions often exceed national averages.
Maryland / D.C. Region
Maryland ranks among the highest‑paying states, with some cities offering 27% above the national average due to government, military, and contractor work.
Washington
Home to Boeing and a dense aerospace supply chain, Washington offers strong wages and steady demand for skilled A&P technicians.
Mid‑Range States
These states typically align with national averages and offer a balance of cost of living and opportunity:
- Texas
- Florida
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Arizona
- Colorado
These regions have major airline hubs, flight schools, and MRO operations, keeping wages competitive but not extreme.
Lower‑Paying States
States with fewer aviation employers or lower living costs tend to fall on the lower end of the salary spectrum:
- Mississippi
- Arkansas
- South Dakota
- Iowa
- Nebraska
These states still offer stable employment but generally pay closer to the $48K–$55K range.
Why Salaries Vary So Much
Several factors influence A&P pay by state:
1. Industry Presence
States with major airlines, MROs, or aerospace manufacturers pay more.
2. Cost of Living
High‑cost states (CA, AK, WA) adjust wages upward.
3. Labor Supply
Remote or specialized regions pay premiums to attract talent.
4. Experience & Certifications
IA authorization, avionics skills, and turbine experience can push salaries into the top 10%.
Final Thoughts
A&P mechanics enjoy strong nationwide demand, but choosing the right state can significantly increase earning potential. Alaska, California, Maryland, and Washington consistently lead the pack, while mid‑tier aviation hubs like Texas and Florida offer excellent balance between pay and opportunity. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to relocate, understanding salary differences by state helps you make informed, strategic career decisions.
