AC Replacement Cost in the U.S. (By State & City)

Discover how much it really costs to replace your central air conditioner and get local quotes based on your home size, location, and efficiency needs.

AC pricing varies by state, city, and home size

Understand SEER ratings and efficiency before buying

Compare AC-only replacement vs full HVAC system upgrade

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What does AC replacement include?

AC replacement means replacing only the central air conditioning unit, not the entire heating and cooling system.

It typically includes:

•Outdoor condenser unit (the main AC component)
•Indoor evaporator coil (if replacing both components)
•Refrigerant lines and electrical connections
•Professional installation and system testing

This is different from HVAC replacement (full system) or heat pump replacement. AC replacement is for cooling only and works with your existing furnace or heating system.

Average AC replacement cost in the U.S.

Nationally, AC replacement costs vary significantly depending on:

System tonnage (size)

Based on home square footage

SEER efficiency rating

Higher SEER = higher upfront cost, lower bills

Installation complexity

Rooftop, attic, or ground-level placement

Local labor rates

Varies by state and city

That's why state-level and city-level pricing is the most accurate way to estimate your real AC replacement cost.

👉 Use the location pages below to see localized price ranges.

Key factors that impact AC replacement cost

Home size & cooling load

(square footage determines tonnage needed)

SEER rating

(13-16 SEER standard, 17-21 SEER high-efficiency)

System capacity

(2-5 tons typical for residential)

Installation location

(ground, rooftop, or attic placement)

Ductwork modifications

(if existing ducts need updates)

Local permits & labor

(varies by state and city regulations)

Each state page breaks these factors down with local context and typical price ranges.

AC replacement vs other system replacements

AC replacement

→ Cooling unit only (works with existing furnace)

HVAC replacement

→ Full system (AC + furnace/air handler together)

Heat pump replacement

→ All-in-one system (heating + cooling in one unit)

Furnace replacement

→ Heating unit only (works with existing AC)

If your furnace is still working well, AC-only replacement is often the most cost-effective option.

If both your AC and furnace are aging, consider full HVAC replacement for better efficiency and compatibility.

How to get an accurate AC replacement quote

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AC replacement cost FAQs

How much does AC replacement cost in my state?

AC replacement costs vary by state due to labor rates, climate demands, and local regulations. Use your state page for accurate ranges based on home size and efficiency needs.

When should I replace my AC instead of repairing it?

Consider replacement if your AC is over 10-12 years old, requires frequent repairs, uses R-22 refrigerant (being phased out), or has low efficiency (SEER below 13). Newer units are significantly more energy-efficient.

What SEER rating should I choose?

Standard efficiency (13-16 SEER) works well for most homes. High-efficiency (17-21 SEER) costs more upfront but saves significantly on energy bills, especially in hot climates. Your contractor can recommend the best option for your home.

Can I replace just the AC if my furnace is old?

Yes, but if your furnace is also aging (10+ years), replacing both together (full HVAC replacement) is often more cost-effective and ensures better system compatibility.