Honolulu HVAC Techs Are Earning $70K+ in 2025 — 17% Above the National Average
Honolulu HVAC technicians are earning $70,000+ in 2025, roughly 17% higher than the U.S. average. Explore how Hawaii’s tropical climate, booming tourism, and resort infrastructure are driving one of the hottest HVAC job markets in America.
The 2025 Honolulu HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Island Income
HVAC technicians in Honolulu earned an average of $70,000 in 2025—17% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Honolulu averages $70K, while Pearl City pays $72K and Waipahu $68K.
Whether you're considering moving to Honolulu for HVAC work or you're already here wondering if you're paid fairly, this guide breaks down exactly what techs earn across the metro area—and how Honolulu's tourism sector and high humidity create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Honolulu HVAC tech salary: $70,000/year
- Honolulu: $70K | Pearl City: $72K | Waipahu: $68K
- Entry-level: $50K-$60K
- Senior/foreman: $90K-$110K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$7K-$12K), Hawaii C-61D License
- Union: UA Local 675
Honolulu's HVAC market is driven by hotels, resorts, and constant humidity that demands reliable cooling systems. From Waikiki high-rises to government buildings, tropical conditions and tourism growth create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Honolulu is approximately $70,000 annually, or $33.65 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's high cost of living and tourism focus, exceeding the national median by 17%.
Entry-level technicians earn $50,000-$60,000, while certified senior techs with overtime can exceed $100,000.
Overtime potential adds an average of $6,750 annually through emergency calls and seasonal peaks. Total compensation packages, including bonuses and benefits, range from $64,000 to $102,000, with a median of $77,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Honolulu techs average $31-$36 hourly. Indeed reports $30.57 base, while Glassdoor notes $35 with OT potential. Specialists in marine AC or BMS reach $42+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $64,480-$74,880, before benefits.
Union positions or resort contracts often include health, pensions, and tool allowances, adding 20-35% in value.
HVAC Technician Salary by City in the Honolulu Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | $70,000 | $33.65 | Hotels and high-rises drive commercial volume; OT peaks during tourist seasons. |
| Pearl City | $72,500 | $34.86 | Military bases prioritize precision maintenance; premiums for union-scale work. |
| Waipahu | $68,000 | $32.69 | Industrial zones focus on heavy-duty retrofits; steady project volume. |
| Aiea | $69,200 | $33.27 | Suburban residential growth supports consistent service calls; balanced demand. |
| Kaneohe | $71,000 | $34.13 | Waterfront facilities require corrosion-resistant systems; residential-commercial mix. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $50,000-$60,000/year. Apprenticeships at Honolulu Community College or UA Local 675 accelerate entry.
- Mid-Level (3-6 years): $65,000-$85,000. Lead roles in hotel retrofits fit here.
- Senior (7+ years): $90,000-$110,000+. Foremen average $100,000.
Certifications and Education
EPA 608 is required. NATE or Hawaii C-61D License adds $7,000-$12,000 annually. Programs at Honolulu Community College boost starts by 16%.
Specialization
Corrosion-resistant systems, dehumidification, or resort HVAC command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Honolulu's tropical humidity ensures year-round demand.
Overtime and Shift Work
Emergency calls and 24/7 facility work pay 1.5-2x rates, helping many techs exceed $95,000.
How Does Honolulu Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Honolulu's 17% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to tourism projects. This places Honolulu among top-paying metros, comparable to Miami and Orlando.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Honolulu (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Honolulu's growth is projected at 10% due to tourism expansions and infrastructure upgrades. Expect 100+ annual openings as resort developments and climate resilience drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Honolulu
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $7,000-$12,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on dehumidification or marine systems for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 675 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Honolulu for volume, Pearl City for military premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Hawaii Energy Free training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $105,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Honolulu Worth It?
Honolulu offers HVAC technicians above-average pay, consistent work, and opportunities in a thriving tourism market. With proper certifications and specialization, earning $105,000+ annually is realistic.
Ready to start? Check Honolulu Community College or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu, HI
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu, HI
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu, HI
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu, HI
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Hawaii
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Honolulu, HI
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Hawaii
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Honolulu, HI
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Honolulu, Pearl City, Waipahu, Aiea, and Kaneohe.
