Providence HVAC Technicians Are Earning $68K+ in 2025 — 14% Above the National Average
Providence HVAC technicians are earning $68K+ in 2025 — 14% above the national average. See how Rhode Island’s booming campus retrofits, historic preservation projects, and coastal climate are creating a path to $100K+ HVAC careers.
The 2025 Providence HVAC Salary guide to Earning a Six-Figure Income
HVAC technicians in Providence earned an average of $68,000 in 2025—14% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Providence averages $68K, while East Providence pays $70K and Warwick $66K.
Whether you're considering moving to Providence 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 Providence's education sector and coastal climate create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Providence HVAC tech salary: $68,000/year
- Providence: $68K | East Providence: $70K | Warwick: $66K
- Entry-level: $50K-$60K
- Senior/foreman: $85K-$110K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$7K-$12K), Rhode Island HVAC License
- Union: UA Local 51
Providence's HVAC market is driven by university campuses, historic preservation, and a coastal climate that demands reliable heating and cooling. From Brown University labs to waterfront developments, moderate seasons and infrastructure upgrades create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Providence?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Providence is approximately $68,000 annually, or $32.70 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's moderate cost of living and education focus, exceeding the national median by 14%.
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 $62,000 to $102,000, with a median of $75,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Providence techs average $30-$35 hourly. Indeed reports $36.49 base, while Glassdoor notes $25 with OT potential. Specialists in refrigeration or BMS reach $41+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $62,400-$72,800, before benefits.
Union positions or institutional contracts often include health, pensions, and tool allowances, adding 20-35% in value.
HVAC Technician Salary by City in the Providence Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence | $68,000 | $32.70 | Universities and hospitals drive commercial volume; OT peaks during academic year. |
| East Providence | $70,500 | $33.89 | Industrial zones prioritize maintenance; premiums for union-scale work. |
| Warwick | $66,000 | $31.73 | Suburban residential growth supports steady service calls; balanced demand. |
| Cranston | $67,200 | $32.31 | Airport-adjacent facilities focus on precision installs; consistent aviation ties. |
| Pawtucket | $65,800 | $31.64 | Historic mill retrofits require specialized repairs; steady preservation projects. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Providence
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $50,000-$60,000/year. Apprenticeships at Community College of Rhode Island or Lincoln Tech accelerate entry.
- Mid-Level (3-6 years): $65,000-$85,000. Lead roles in campus retrofits fit here.
- Senior (7+ years): $85,000-$110,000+. Foremen average $98,000.
Certifications and Education
EPA 608 is required. NATE or Rhode Island HVAC License adds $7,000-$12,000 annually. Programs at Community College of Rhode Island boost starts by 15%.
Specialization
Historic building retrofits, lab ventilation, or coastal HVAC command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease access. Providence's coastal climate 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 Providence Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Providence's 14% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to education-driven projects. This places Providence among mid-tier metros, comparable to Hartford and Albany.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Providence (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Providence's growth is projected at 10% due to infrastructure upgrades and education expansions. Expect 140+ annual openings as preservation and development drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Providence
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $7,000-$12,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on historic retrofits or lab systems for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 51 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Providence for volume, East Providence for industrial premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Rhode Island Energy Efficiency training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $100,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Providence Worth It?
Providence offers HVAC technicians above-average pay, consistent work, and opportunities in a growing education market. With proper certifications and specialization, earning $100,000+ annually is realistic.
Ready to start? Check Community College of Rhode Island or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Providence, RI
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Providence, RI
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Providence, RI
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Providence, RI
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Rhode Island
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Providence, RI
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Rhode Island
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Providence, RI
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Providence, East Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket.
