Seattle HVAC Techs Are Earning $82K+ in 2025 — 37% Above the National Average
Seattle HVAC technicians are pulling in $82K+ a year—37% higher than the national average. Discover which cities pay the most, what certifications boost income, and how Seattle’s booming tech and green sectors are driving six-figure HVAC careers.
The 2025 Seattle HVAC Salary Guide to Earning a Six-Figure Tech Income
HVAC technicians in Seattle earned an average of $82,000 in 2025—37% above the national average. But location within the metro matters: Seattle averages $82K, while Bellevue pays $84K and Tacoma $79K.
Whether you're considering moving to Seattle 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 Seattle's tech sector and green building initiatives create premium opportunities.
Quick Answer:
- Average Seattle HVAC tech salary: $82,000/year
- Seattle: $82K | Bellevue: $84K | Tacoma: $79K
- Entry-level: $60K-$70K
- Senior/foreman: $100K-$125K+
- Top certs: EPA 608 (required), NATE (+$8K-$15K), Washington State 06A License
- Union: UA Local 32
Seattle's HVAC market is driven by tech campuses, green building mandates, and a marine climate that requires reliable systems year-round. From Amazon towers to historic neighborhoods, year-round moderate temps and energy efficiency mandates create consistent demand.
What Is the Average HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle?
In 2025, the average HVAC technician salary in Seattle is approximately $82,000 annually, or $39.42 per hour for a standard 40-hour week. This reflects the metro's high cost of living and strong tech sector, exceeding the national median by 37%.
Entry-level technicians earn $60,000-$70,000, while certified senior techs with overtime can exceed $110,000.
Overtime potential adds an average of $6,750 annually through emergency calls and seasonal peaks. Total compensation packages, including bonuses and benefits, range from $75,000 to $115,000, with a median of $88,000.
Hourly Wage Breakdown for HVAC Technicians
Seattle techs average $37-$42 hourly. Indeed reports $39.51 base, while Glassdoor notes $38 with OT potential. Specialists in data center systems or BMS reach $45+. For 2,080 hours/year, base pay spans $76,960-$87,360, before benefits.
Union positions or tech contracts often include health, pensions, and tool allowances, adding 25-40% in value.
HVAC Technician Salary by City in the Seattle Area
| City | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $82,000 | $39.42 | Tech campuses and high-rises drive commercial volume; OT peaks during expansion phases. |
| Bellevue | $84,500 | $40.62 | Corporate offices prioritize energy-efficient upgrades; premiums for smart controls. |
| Tacoma | $78,700 | $37.84 | Port and industrial hubs focus on heavy-duty maintenance; steady union work. |
| Redmond | $82,100 | $39.47 | Microsoft labs demand precision climate control; high-end tech projects. |
| Renton | $80,500 | $38.70 | Boeing facilities require industrial retrofits; balanced residential-commercial mix. |
Factors Affecting HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle
Experience Level
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $60,000-$70,000/year. Apprenticeships at Seattle Central College or South Seattle College accelerate entry.
- Mid-Level (3-6 years): $75,000-$95,000. Lead roles in office retrofits fit here.
- Senior (7+ years): $100,000-$125,000+. Foremen average $112,000.
Certifications and Education
EPA 608 is required. NATE or Washington State 06A License adds $8,000-$15,000 annually. Programs at Seattle Central College boost starts by 20%.
Specialization
Data center cooling, marine HVAC, or green retrofits command 15-25% premiums.
Location and Demand
Downtown premiums offset traffic; suburbs ease logistics. Seattle's marine 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 $105,000.
How Does Seattle Compare to the National Average?
Nationally, HVAC technicians earn a median of $59,810 ($28.75/hour). Seattle's 37% premium compensates for higher cost of living while offering access to tech-driven projects. This places Seattle among the top-paying metros for HVAC work, comparable to San Francisco and Boston.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Seattle (2025 and Beyond)
The national HVAC job growth rate is 6% through 2033. Seattle's growth is projected at 10% due to tech expansions and green mandates. Expect 800+ annual openings as construction and sustainability drive demand.
How to Boost Your HVAC Salary in Seattle
Get certified: NATE or LEED certification adds $8,000-$15,000 annually.
Specialize: Focus on data center or green retrofits for premium rates.
Join the union: UA Local 32 offers better pay and benefits.
Choose strategically: Downtown Seattle for volume, Bellevue for tech sector premiums.
Continuous learning: Free Puget Sound Energy efficiency training resources.
Combine these strategies to reach $110,000+ annually.
Final Thoughts: Is an HVAC Career in Seattle Worth It?
Seattle offers HVAC technicians above-average pay, consistent work, and opportunities in a growing tech market. With proper certifications and specialization, earning $110,000+ annually is realistic.
Ready to start? Check Seattle Central College or search current openings on Indeed.
This post is informational only. Salaries vary; consult active listings.
Sources
- Indeed: HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle, WA
- Glassdoor: HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle, WA
- Salary.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle, WA
- ZipRecruiter: HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle, WA
- ServiceTitan: HVAC Technician Salary Guide for 2025
- BLS: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
- Projections Central: HVAC Job Growth in Washington
- PayScale: HVAC Technician Hourly Pay in Seattle, WA
- Talent.com: HVAC Technician Salary in Washington
- SkillCat: HVAC Technician Salary in Seattle, WA
City-specific data from Indeed, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter for Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Redmond, and Renton.
