Market Size and Growth: The US computer and electronic repair industry is estimated to generate $21.3 billion in revenue in 2024. However, the industry has seen a decline of 2.0% annually over the past five years (2019-2024). This decline is partly attributed to the increasing affordability of new devices, leading some consumers to replace rather than repair.
Despite the recent decline, the market is still substantial, indicating a significant need for repair services. There are approximately 29,745 businesses operating in this sector in the US as of 2024.
The job outlook for computer support specialists is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This suggests a continued demand for skilled professionals in the computer service and repair field.
Reasons for Repair and Service Demand: While the affordability of new devices impacts the market, repairs remain crucial for many, especially for businesses where replacing equipment can be costly and disruptive. Office and medical equipment repairs account for the majority of revenue in the repair services industry.
Unexpected hardware failures, software issues, virus infections, and the need for data recovery are common reasons individuals and businesses seek computer repair services.
As the lifespan of computers can extend beyond 3-5 years, many users prefer to repair their existing systems rather than invest in new ones, especially for specific component failures like hard drives, memory, or power supplies.
Employment and Wages: The median annual wage for computer support specialists was $60,340 in May 2024. The actual salary can vary based on experience, location (with states like New York and New Jersey having higher average wages), and specialization.
The computer repair field offers various job roles, including computer user support specialists and computer network support specialists, each with slightly different responsibilities and earning potentials.
Trends and Considerations: The industry is characterized by a large number of small and independent operators catering to local markets.
The decision to repair or replace often depends on the age of the computer, the severity of the issue, the cost of repair versus replacement, and individual or business needs.
While the overall market revenue has declined, there remains a consistent need for skilled technicians to address hardware and software problems, especially as computers remain integral to daily life and business operations in Las Vegas and across the country.