Auto Technician Pay Varies Widely by State

Auto mechanic wages vary substantially across the country: nationally, the lowest-paid 10% earn $16.66 an hour, while the highest-paid 10% earn more than $39.32. Among the states highlighted, Virginia averages $29.62 an hour, Wyoming $26.59, Pennsylvania $26.13, and West Virginia $21.19—the lowest state average. Low compensation is cited as the leading reason for technician shortages by 24% of shop owners and 67% of technicians, and nearly half of shop owners expect the shortage to worsen. The articles stress that technician wages are distinct from the labor rates shops charge customers, and say competitive pay is important to attracting and retaining workers.