Central AC Replacement Cost by City (2026)
Updated 2026
Central AC replacement covers the outdoor condenser, indoor coil, refrigerant, and labor. Price scales with tonnage (cooling capacity) and SEER2 efficiency rating. Nationally, expect $3,900-$9,000. Pick your city below for a localized estimate.
$3,900
Low
$5,800
U.S. Average
$9,000
High
What affects central ac replacement cost
- System size in tons (matched to square footage)
- SEER2 efficiency rating
- Coil and line-set replacement
- Ductwork condition
- Permit and refrigerant type
Central AC Replacement cost by city
| City | Typical average | |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $6,700 | View → |
| Los Angeles, CA | $6,700 | View → |
| Chicago, IL | $6,000 | View → |
| Houston, TX | $5,700 | View → |
| Phoenix, AZ | $5,800 | View → |
| Philadelphia, PA | $5,900 | View → |
| San Antonio, TX | $5,700 | View → |
| San Diego, CA | $6,700 | View → |
| Dallas, TX | $5,700 | View → |
| Fort Worth, TX | $5,700 | View → |
| Jacksonville, FL | $5,800 | View → |
| Austin, TX | $5,700 | View → |
| San Jose, CA | $6,700 | View → |
| Charlotte, NC | $5,700 | View → |
| Columbus, OH | $5,600 | View → |
| Indianapolis, IN | $5,500 | View → |
| San Francisco, CA | $6,700 | View → |
| Seattle, WA | $6,500 | View → |
| Denver, CO | $6,100 | View → |
| Nashville, TN | $5,600 | View → |
Frequently asked questions
What size AC do I need?
Roughly one ton per 500-600 sq ft, but a proper Manual J load calculation is the reliable method.
How long does AC installation take?
A straightforward condenser-and-coil swap is typically completed in one day.
Why did AC prices rise?
Newer refrigerant rules (R-454B/R-32) and SEER2 minimums have raised baseline equipment costs.
Figures localized from 2026 national baselines. Informational only - see our methodology.