Home & Property · Cost guide
HVAC Replacement Cost Cost Guide (2026)
Estimate what a new HVAC system costs by system type and state, then request local installer pricing.
Open the hvac replacement cost calculator
Typical cost ranges
These are installed-cost planning ranges for the options modelled by the calculator.
| Option | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Central AC only | $3,500 – $8,500 |
| Furnace only | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Heat pump | $5,500 – $15,000 |
| Full system (AC + furnace) | $6,500 – $20,000 |
| Full system + ductwork | $9,000 – $28,000 |
Planning ranges, not quotes. Your project's access, condition and local code can move the number.
What changes the price
System type, home square footage, duct condition and refrigerant rules drive most of the price. A 2,000 sq ft home typically needs 3–4 tons of cooling; older ductwork adds $2,000–$6,000.
- Electrical upgrade — +$500 – $1,500 per number of systems
- New thermostat — +$200 – $600 per number of systems
State differences
Local labour rates change the same job by 10–40%. Examples for the cheapest option above (full 51-state adjustment in the calculator):
| State | Multiplier | Adjusted range |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | ×1.05 | $3,150 – $8,400 |
| California | ×1.45 | $4,350 – $11,600 |
| Florida | ×1.05 | $3,150 – $8,400 |
| Georgia | ×0.95 | $2,850 – $7,600 |
| Illinois | ×1.02 | $3,060 – $8,160 |
| New York | ×1.30 | $3,900 – $10,400 |
| Ohio | ×0.92 | $2,760 – $7,360 |
| Texas | ×0.98 | $2,940 – $7,840 |
How to use the calculator
- Enter your project size and choose the material or system.
- Add optional items (removal, permits, upgrades) and your state.
- Read the planning range and line-item breakdown.
- Have a quote? Paste it into the quote checker to see where it sits.
Before you hire
- Verify the contractor's licence and insurance with the official state source — see our verification guide.
- Get three written quotes using the same scope.
- Use our project checklist to compare permits, disposal and warranty.
FAQ
How much does HVAC replacement cost?
A central AC-only replacement runs $3,500–$8,500. A full system with furnace and AC is $6,500–$20,000. Heat pumps sit in between and may qualify for rebates.
What is the most expensive part?
The outdoor condenser and the air handler, plus any ductwork changes. Duct replacement is often the single largest surprise line item.
How long does installation take?
Most residential replacements are done in one day; full ductwork can take 2–4 days.
Related cost guides
AC Replacement Cost guide
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Read guide →How we build these ranges: methodology and data sources. CostBrick is an information and referral service — not a contractor and not a quote.