Home/HVAC Schools by City/Tacoma
Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue, WA

HVAC Schools in
Tacoma

Find accredited HVAC training programs near Tacoma. Compare schools by tuition, program length, certifications, and job placement rates — then request info for free.

$59,720
Median HVAC Salary
+6%
Job Growth Rate
160+
Annual Openings
Required
Washington License

Key Takeaways

HVAC technicians in Tacoma earn a median $59,720/year with 6% job growth and ~160 annual openings in the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue, WA. Showing accredited programs in Washington that commonly serve the Tacoma metro.

  • Salary range: $39,920–$84,650+
  • Washington license: required for contracting
  • 4 programs and 3 schools listed for this metro
Local Market
HVAC in Tacoma
Tacoma and the surrounding Washington market rely on year-round heating and cooling demand. Accredited HVAC programs in the region prepare technicians for residential service, commercial installs, and EPA 608 certification.
Salary Range
$39,920 entry-level to $84,650+ for experienced technicians. Median: $59,720/year.
Source: BLS OEWS SOC 49-9021
Job Outlook
+6% projected growth with approximately 160 annual openings in the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue, WA. Demand outpaces supply in most submarkets.
Top Employers
and dozens of independent contractors hiring entry-level technicians in the Tacoma area.
Licensing
Washington HVAC License Requirements
Understanding your state's licensing rules before choosing a program helps you pick a curriculum that meets the requirements.
Washington License: Required
Washington requires HVAC technicians who perform electrical connections to hold an 06A specialty electrician license. All contractors must register with L&I.
Full Washington license requirements →
EPA 608 Certification Guide
Programs Near Tacoma
Accredited HVAC Schools in Washington
These accredited programs serve the Tacoma metro area. Filter by format, cost, or certification focus to narrow your results.
Showing accredited programs in Washington that commonly serve the Tacoma metro.
Technical InstituteAccredited

Perry Technical Institute

Yakima, Washington
Programs
1
Starting Tuition
$47,204
Shortest Track
24 mo
Job Placement
91%
EPA 608NATE Prep
View Programs
Community CollegeAccredited

Bellingham Technical College

Bellingham, Washington
Programs
2
Starting Tuition
$6,800
Shortest Track
12 mo
Job Placement
92%
EPA 608NATE Prep
View Programs
Community CollegeAccredited

Renton Technical College

Renton, Washington
Programs
1
Starting Tuition
$10,800
Shortest Track
24 mo
Job Placement
89%
EPA 608NATE Prep
View Programs
Top Programs
HVAC Programs Near Tacoma
All Programs in TacomaView All Washington Programs
Your Path
From Training to $59,720+/Year
Here's a realistic timeline from starting HVAC school to earning the median salary in the Tacoma market.
01
Enroll in a Certificate Program
6–12 months. Learn HVAC fundamentals, refrigeration, electrical, and get EPA 608 certified. Most Tacoma-area programs cost $8,000–$18,000 with financial aid available.
02
Get EPA 608 Certified
Required by federal law before handling refrigerants. Most certificate programs include exam prep. The exam costs $20–$40 and certification never expires.
03
Land Your First Tech Role
Entry-level positions in Tacoma typically start at $39,920–$49,900/year. Many employers offer sign-on bonuses given the current technician shortage.
04
Earn NATE Certification
NATE-certified techs earn 10–20% more on average. Specialize in residential, commercial, or refrigeration to command premium rates in the Tacoma market.
Nearby Areas
Also Serving These Tacoma Suburbs
HVAC programs in Tacoma serve students from across the metro area including:
Seattle, WABellevue, WAEverett, WARenton, WABellingham, WAYakima, WA
FAQ
HVAC Schools in Tacoma — Common Questions
Answers to what people searching for HVAC training in Tacoma ask most.
How much do HVAC technicians make in Tacoma?
The median HVAC technician salary in the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue, WA is $59,720 per year, according to BLS OEWS data. Entry-level technicians typically earn $39,920–$49,820 while experienced technicians and journeymen can earn $84,650+.
Do I need a license to work as an HVAC technician in Washington?
Washington requires HVAC technicians who perform electrical connections to hold an 06A specialty electrician license. All contractors must register with L&I.
How long does HVAC training take in Tacoma?
Most HVAC certificate programs take 6–12 months. Associate degree programs take 18–24 months. HVAC apprenticeship programs in Tacoma typically take 4–5 years but pay wages from day one. The fastest route to employment is a certificate program followed by an entry-level tech position.
Is the HVAC job market good in Tacoma?
Yes. The Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue, WA is projected to add approximately 160 HVAC job openings per year, with 6% employment growth through 2032 — above the national average of 6%. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington market rely on year-round heating and cooling demand. Accredited HVAC programs in the region prepare technicians for residential service, commercial installs, and EPA 608 certification.
What certifications do I need to work HVAC in Tacoma?
EPA Section 608 certification is required by federal law for anyone handling refrigerants, and is mandatory in Tacoma as elsewhere. Most employers also prefer or require NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification. Washington also requires an HVAC contractor license for independent contracting work.
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