The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) field is one of the most in-demand skilled trades in the U.S., and Aurora, Colorado offers competitive pay for technicians. In 2026, HVAC technicians in Aurora continue to see steady salary growth due to population expansion, increasing construction projects, and rising demand for energy-efficient climate systems.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of average HVAC technician salaries in Aurora, pay by experience, factors affecting earnings, certifications, benefits, job market trends, and comparisons with other cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Aurora, CO (2026)
Aurora offers wages above the national average for HVAC professionals, reflecting high demand and cost of living in the Denver-Aurora metro area.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $45,000 – $55,000 | $22 – $27 |
| Mid-Level | $55,000 – $70,000 | $27 – $34 |
| Experienced | $70,000 – $85,000 | $34 – $41 |
| Master / Specialized | $90,000 – $110,000+ | $43 – $53+ |
Average HVAC technician salary in Aurora, CO (2026):
👉 Approximately $65,000–$70,000 per year
Salary by Experience Level
Experience heavily influences HVAC technician earnings. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Entry-Level Technicians (0–2 Years)
Often apprentices working under supervision
Handle basic installation, maintenance, and repair tasks
Paid lower hourly rates but gain valuable skills
Average pay: $45,000–$55,000/year
2. Mid-Level Technicians (3–6 Years)
Work independently on residential and light commercial systems
Handle troubleshooting, diagnostics, and moderate installations
May receive overtime pay and performance bonuses
Average pay: $55,000–$70,000/year
3. Experienced Technicians (7–10+ Years)
Manage large commercial systems, HVAC design, and energy efficiency projects
Often lead teams or handle high-stakes emergency services
Eligible for higher hourly rates and incentives
Average pay: $70,000–$85,000/year
4. Master Technicians & Specialists
Expertise in specialized systems such as geothermal, refrigeration, or commercial HVAC
May own contracting businesses or hold management roles
Often called for emergency or high-complexity projects
Average pay: $90,000–$110,000+ per year
Factors That Influence HVAC Technician Earnings
Several key factors determine HVAC salaries in Aurora:
Certifications and licenses (EPA, NATE, state HVAC licenses)
Type of work (residential, commercial, industrial)
Union membership
Overtime and emergency service availability
Business ownership or contracting
Local demand and cost of living
Technicians offering 24/7 emergency services or advanced system expertise typically earn significantly more than standard residential workers.
Certifications and Education That Boost Salary
Formal education and certifications directly impact earning potential.
High-Value Certifications
EPA Section 608 Certification (required for handling refrigerants)
NATE Certification (North American Technician Excellence)
HVAC/R Technician License (Colorado)
Refrigeration, Gas, and Energy Efficiency Certifications
OSHA Safety Certification
Education Path
High school diploma or GED
Technical school or community college HVAC program
Apprenticeship (2–5 years)
State licensing exams
Certified and licensed HVAC technicians can earn 20–30% more than uncertified peers.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Aurora (2026)
Aurora’s HVAC job market is strong and growing, driven by residential expansion and commercial construction.
Key Trends
Increased demand for energy-efficient and smart HVAC systems
Population growth boosting residential HVAC needs
Commercial renovations and new construction projects
Retirements in the skilled labor force creating openings
Growing emphasis on green technology and LEED-certified systems
Aurora reports consistent demand for qualified HVAC technicians, with thousands of open positions anticipated annually.
Benefits of Working as an HVAC Technician in Aurora
Besides competitive pay, HVAC technicians enjoy several additional benefits:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid overtime and holiday pay
Retirement and pension plans (union positions)
Job security due to essential services
Opportunities for business ownership or self-employment
Year-round employment, even in economic downturns
Union technicians often receive some of the best benefit packages in the trade.
HVAC Technician Salary Comparison: Aurora vs Other Cities (2026)
Aurora’s pay is competitive but slightly lower than top-tier cities like Denver or San Francisco.
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Aurora, CO | $65,000 – $70,000 |
| Denver, CO | $68,000 – $75,000 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $60,000 – $66,000 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $60,000 – $68,000 |
| Dallas, TX | $58,000 – $65,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $75,000 – $85,000 |
| Chicago, IL | $62,000 – $70,000 |
Aurora offers steady demand and growth opportunities, even if top salaries are slightly lower than larger metropolitan areas.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Aurora
Aurora has a moderate cost of living compared to Denver, but HVAC salaries reflect this:
Higher wages help offset housing and transportation costs
Overtime opportunities boost net income
Technicians can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while gaining experience
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Aurora
The outlook for HVAC careers is excellent in Aurora:
Essential trade with low automation risk
Continuous demand for repairs and new system installations
Energy efficiency regulations increasing demand for skilled technicians
Steady construction and population growth
HVAC remains a stable, recession-resistant career.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, HVAC technician salaries in Aurora, CO reflect strong demand, urban growth, and skilled labor shortages. With an average salary near $65,000–$70,000, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career advancement, the HVAC field offers a secure and lucrative career path. Technicians with certifications and specialized skills have the potential to earn significantly more and build long-term financial stability. Aurora remains a promising city for both new and experienced HVAC professionals.