Last checked: November 7, 2026
Quick answer: The AC replacement cost for most homeowners in the USA is $3,900–$13,500 installed. The typical cost is about $7,000 for a standard central air conditioner. Ductwork, electrical upgrades and high-efficiency units can push the total higher.
Your old air conditioner is loud, weak or broken, and you want to know what a new one will cost. This guide breaks down the AC replacement cost by system size, efficiency and type. It also shows what drives the price up and how to keep it down.
We are not contractors, and we do not collect our own quotes. Instead, these prices are based on published cost data, manufacturer price guides and labor rates, checked in November 2026. You can read more about our method on our How We Price page.
AC replacement cost at a glance
A full replacement has several parts. The outdoor unit is the biggest line item, but labor, permits and add-ons matter too. The table below shows the main pieces, as of November 2026.
| Item | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full central AC replacement (installed) | $3,000 | About $7,000 | $13,500–$15,000+ |
| AC unit only (equipment) | $1,000 | $1,500–$5,700 | $8,500 |
| Installation labor | $1,000 | 40%–60% of the total | $2,500 |
| Permit | $250 | Varies by city | $1,500 |
| Old unit removal and refrigerant recovery | $50 | Varies | $200 |
| Smart thermostat (installed) | $140 | Varies | $350 |
| New or upgraded electrical circuit | $850 | Varies | $4,000 |
| New ductwork (if needed) | $2,400 | $3,000–$6,600 | $10,000 |
Trane puts the national average for its own installed units at $6,958 to $13,418. Carrier says most central AC jobs land between $3,000 and $15,000 or more. However, Carrier’s range does not include a new furnace, evaporator coil or duct changes.
AC replacement cost by size
Central air conditioners are sized in tons. One ton equals 12,000 BTU of cooling per hour. A bigger home usually needs a bigger unit, so the price climbs with size.
| Size | Typical home size | Installed cost range |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600–900 sq ft | $2,000–$5,000 |
| 2 ton | 1,000–1,300 sq ft | $2,500–$5,500 |
| 2.5 ton | 1,300–1,600 sq ft | $2,700–$6,000 |
| 3 ton | 1,600–1,900 sq ft | $3,000–$6,500 |
| 3.5 ton | 1,900–2,200 sq ft | $3,100–$7,000 |
| 4 ton | 2,200–2,600 sq ft | $3,500–$7,500 |
| 5 ton | 2,600–3,200 sq ft | $4,000–$8,000 |
Keep in mind that square footage is only a rough guide. A good contractor should run a load calculation for your home. Insulation, windows, ceiling height and sun exposure all change the right size.
Cost by efficiency and system type
Efficiency is rated by SEER or the newer SEER2 number. A higher number means lower power use, but also a higher price tag. In addition, the type of system you choose makes a big difference.
| Option | Unit only | Installed |
|---|---|---|
| 13–14 SEER | $1,000–$4,200 | $2,500–$6,000 |
| 15–16 SEER | $1,500–$5,700 | $3,000–$7,500 |
| 17–18 SEER | $1,800–$6,100 | $3,500–$8,600 |
| 19–21 SEER | $2,500–$7,500 | $4,000–$10,000 |
| 22–26 SEER | $3,700–$8,500 | $6,000–$11,000 |
| Central AC system (any efficiency) | — | $3,000–$15,000 |
| Ductless mini-split | — | $2,000–$10,500 |
| Geothermal system | — | $12,000–$45,000 |
According to ENERGY STAR, certified central air conditioners have higher SEER and EER ratings. The extra cost is paid back over time through lower energy bills.
What affects the price
Two homes on the same street can get very different prices. Here are the main reasons.
Size of the unit
Bigger units cost more to buy and take longer to set. Most homes use units between 2 and 5 tons. As the size table shows, each step up adds a few hundred dollars or more.
Efficiency rating and compressor type
Trane notes that single-stage units are the cheapest up front. Two-stage, multi-speed and variable-speed models cost more, in that order. On the other hand, they run more quietly and use less power.
Brand
Brand matters too. For example, PickHVAC lists installed ranges of $3,200–$5,000 for Goodman, $4,700–$8,700 for Carrier and $5,300–$9,000 for Lennox. Still, the installer’s skill matters more than the badge on the box.
Ductwork condition
Leaky or undersized ducts waste the cooling you pay for. American Standard says replacing ducts can add $3,000 to $10,000. Ask for a duct check before you sign.
Electrical work
A new unit may need a new circuit or disconnect. PickHVAC puts this at $850 to $4,000 when an upgrade is needed. Older homes are more likely to need it.
Refrigerant changes
R-410A refrigerant is being phased out. American Standard says new systems made from 2025 use R-454B, which may slightly raise upfront costs. Meanwhile, recharging an older R-410A unit will likely get more expensive.
Job complexity and labor time
Carrier says swapping only the outdoor unit takes about 4 to 8 hours. A full system replacement takes about 8 to 14 hours. Hard-to-reach attics, crawl spaces or rooftops add time and cost.
AC replacement cost by region
Labor is a big share of the bill, so where you live matters. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists a median wage of $29.33 per hour for HVAC mechanics and installers (May 2025). Contractor rates are higher than wages, because they also cover overhead, insurance and profit.
Big metro areas with high living costs tend to charge more. As one example, PickHVAC compares about $7,000 for a job in New York City with about $4,000 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hot southern states also see heavy demand in summer, which can stretch wait times.
The best way to learn your local price is to compare written bids. If you’d like help finding local installers, you can request free quotes from local pros.
Labor vs materials
PickHVAC estimates that labor makes up 40% to 60% of the total job. In dollar terms, that is often $1,000 to $2,500. The rest goes to the unit, line set, pad, thermostat and permit.
Ways to save on a new AC
- Get three written quotes. Prices for the same job can vary by thousands of dollars.
- Book in spring or fall. Contractors are less busy than in peak summer.
- Right-size the unit. An oversized unit costs more and can cool unevenly.
- Pick a sensible efficiency level. In mild climates, a mid-range SEER2 unit may pay back faster than a top-tier one.
- Ask about utility rebates. Many local power companies offer rebates on efficient units.
- Fix ducts only if needed. Sealing may be enough instead of a full replacement.
DIY vs hiring a pro
Replacing a central AC is not a DIY job for most homeowners. The work involves high-voltage wiring and sealed refrigerant lines. Federal rules also require certified technicians to handle refrigerant.
In addition, most makers tie their warranty to a proper install and timely registration. For example, Carrier offers a 10-year parts warranty if you register on time, but only five years if you don’t. Simple tasks, like changing filters or clearing debris around the outdoor unit, are fine to do yourself.
Questions to ask your contractor
- Are you licensed and insured in my state?
- Will you do a load calculation to size the unit?
- Does the quote include permits, removal, the line set and a new pad?
- Do I need a new indoor coil or furnace to match the new unit?
- What refrigerant does the new system use?
- What warranty covers parts and labor, and who registers it?
Always get at least 3 written quotes from licensed, insured local contractors before you decide. For more project prices, browse our cost guides.
AC replacement cost FAQ
How much does it cost to replace a central AC unit?
Most homeowners in the USA pay between $3,900 and $13,500 installed, based on Trane’s national figures. The typical job is about $7,000. Ductwork or electrical upgrades can add thousands more.
How long does a central air conditioner last?
American Standard says most AC units last 10 to 15 years. Regular filter changes and yearly tune-ups help it reach the upper end of that range.
Should I replace my furnace at the same time?
It can make sense if your furnace is old. ENERGY STAR suggests it especially when the furnace is over 15 years old. Doing both at once can save on labor, though the total bill will be higher.
How long does AC installation take?
Carrier says an outdoor-unit swap takes about 4 to 8 hours. A full system replacement usually takes 8 to 14 hours, which is often one long day or two shorter ones.
Want real prices for your home? Get free quotes from local pros. It’s free and there’s no obligation.
Sources
- Trane – What does Central AC Replacement Cost?
- Carrier – Central Air Conditioner Prices
- American Standard – How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost?
- PickHVAC – Air Conditioner Replacement Cost by Ton, Brand and SEER
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – HVAC Mechanics and Installers
- ENERGY STAR – Central Air Conditioners
- U.S. Department of Energy – Home Cooling Systems