HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians are essential to maintaining comfort in homes and businesses. In Colorado Springs, CO, HVAC technicians are experiencing competitive wages due to increasing construction, extreme seasonal weather, and a growing population. Understanding the salary trends, factors influencing earnings, and career outlook is vital for anyone considering this profession in 2026.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of average HVAC technician salaries in Colorado Springs, earnings by experience, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with other cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Colorado Springs, CO (2026)
HVAC technician salaries in Colorado Springs are competitive, reflecting the cost of living and high demand for skilled tradespeople.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $45,000 – $55,000 | $22 – $27 |
| Mid-level | $58,000 – $72,000 | $28 – $35 |
| Experienced | $75,000 – $90,000 | $36 – $44 |
| Master / Specialized | $95,000 – $110,000+ | $46 – $55+ |
Average HVAC technician salary in Colorado Springs (2026):
👉 Around $68,000 – $75,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily influences HVAC technician income in Colorado Springs.
1. Entry-Level Technicians (0–2 Years)
Usually apprentices or newly certified
Perform basic installations, repairs, and maintenance
Work under supervision and gain hands-on experience
Average pay: $45,000 – $55,000/year
2. Mid-Level Technicians (3–6 Years)
Handle most residential and commercial systems independently
Troubleshoot HVAC systems efficiently
Eligible for overtime and premium assignments
Average pay: $58,000 – $72,000/year
3. Experienced Technicians (7–10+ Years)
Lead projects, handle large commercial systems
Specialized knowledge in refrigeration or industrial HVAC
Often supervise apprentices and junior technicians
Average pay: $75,000 – $90,000/year
4. Master Technicians / Specialists
Work with complex systems like industrial refrigeration or energy-efficient solutions
May own businesses or operate as independent contractors
Emergency service specialists earn additional premiums
Average pay: $95,000 – $110,000+ per year
Factors That Influence HVAC Technician Earnings
Several factors impact how much a technician earns in Colorado Springs:
Key Salary Drivers
Level of certification and licensing (EPA, NATE, state-specific)
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union vs. non-union positions
Experience and years in the field
Emergency or on-call services
Business ownership or freelancing
Specialized technicians, like those working with green energy or commercial refrigeration, often earn 20–30% more than standard HVAC workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Certifications can significantly increase salary potential and job opportunities.
High-Value Certifications
EPA Section 608 Certification (mandatory for refrigerant handling)
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification
HVAC Excellence Certification
State HVAC License (if applicable in Colorado)
OSHA Safety Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Technical school or community college programs (HVAC training)
Apprenticeship (2–5 years)
Certification exams
Technicians with advanced certifications may earn $10,000–$20,000 more per year than uncertified peers.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Colorado Springs (2026)
The HVAC job market in Colorado Springs is growing steadily due to weather demands, new construction, and retrofitting older buildings.
Key Trends
Increased residential construction and renovations
Expansion of commercial facilities and office buildings
Rising demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly HVAC systems
Technicians retiring, creating a labor gap
Strong demand for emergency repair services
Colorado Springs consistently reports a shortage of skilled HVAC technicians, making employment opportunities stable and well-paying.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician
Beyond salary, HVAC technicians enjoy numerous professional and financial benefits.
Common Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Retirement and pension plans (for union positions)
Job security and high demand
Opportunities to start a private business
Seasonal premium pay for extreme weather conditions
Unionized technicians in Colorado Springs typically receive some of the most competitive benefit packages.
HVAC Technician Salary Comparison: Colorado Springs vs Other Cities (2026)
Colorado Springs offers competitive wages compared to other U.S. cities.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO | $68,000 – $75,000 |
| Denver, CO | $72,000 – $80,000 |
| Colorado Fort Collins, CO | $65,000 – $73,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $55,000 – $65,000 |
| Seattle, WA | $75,000 – $85,000 |
While Denver and Seattle pay slightly more, Colorado Springs offers lower living costs and high employment stability, making it attractive for HVAC professionals.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs has a moderate cost of living compared to Denver or coastal cities, which means technician salaries go further.
Key Takeaways
Salaries can comfortably support housing, utilities, and living expenses
Overtime and seasonal work increase annual earnings
Unionized technicians maintain higher purchasing power
Technicians who manage finances wisely can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without relocation.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Colorado Springs
The outlook for HVAC technicians in Colorado Springs is very strong through 2030.
Reasons for Positive Outlook
Essential trade with no automation risk
Growth in residential and commercial building projects
Retiring workforce creating demand for new technicians
Increasing need for eco-friendly and energy-efficient systems
HVAC work is considered recession-resistant and provides long-term career stability.
Is Being an HVAC Technician a Good Career in Colorado Springs in 2026?
Yes. HVAC careers offer:
Competitive salaries without college debt
High demand and job security
Opportunities for certifications and specialization
Potential for business ownership
Career growth with experience
Technicians willing to invest in education, certification, and apprenticeships will find Colorado Springs a top market for HVAC careers.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, the HVAC technician salary in Colorado Springs, CO reflects the city’s strong demand for skilled tradespeople and moderate living costs. With average salaries nearing $70,000 annually, solid benefits, and excellent long-term prospects, HVAC work remains a highly rewarding and stable career choice. Whether entering the field as an apprentice or advancing to master-level specialization, Colorado Springs offers abundant opportunities for growth and financial security.