Water Heater Replacement Cost by City (2026)
Updated 2026
Replacing a water heater covers the new unit, removal of the old tank, connections, and code-required safety fittings. Tankless and high-capacity gas units sit at the top of the range. Nationally, expect $1,200-$4,500. Pick your city below for a localized estimate.
$1,200
Low
$1,800
U.S. Average
$4,500
High
What affects water heater replacement cost
- Tank vs. tankless (tankless runs higher)
- Fuel type - gas, electric, or heat-pump
- Tank capacity (40, 50, 75+ gallon)
- Code upgrades: expansion tank, venting, pan
- Permit and haul-away of the old unit
Water Heater Replacement cost by city
| City | Typical average | |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $2,100 | View → |
| Los Angeles, CA | $2,100 | View → |
| Chicago, IL | $1,850 | View → |
| Houston, TX | $1,750 | View → |
| Phoenix, AZ | $1,800 | View → |
| Philadelphia, PA | $1,800 | View → |
| San Antonio, TX | $1,750 | View → |
| San Diego, CA | $2,100 | View → |
| Dallas, TX | $1,750 | View → |
| Fort Worth, TX | $1,750 | View → |
| Jacksonville, FL | $1,800 | View → |
| Austin, TX | $1,750 | View → |
| San Jose, CA | $2,100 | View → |
| Charlotte, NC | $1,750 | View → |
| Columbus, OH | $1,750 | View → |
| Indianapolis, IN | $1,700 | View → |
| San Francisco, CA | $2,100 | View → |
| Seattle, WA | $2,000 | View → |
| Denver, CO | $1,900 | View → |
| Nashville, TN | $1,750 | View → |
Frequently asked questions
How long does a water heater replacement take?
A like-for-like tank swap is usually 2-3 hours; switching fuel type or going tankless can take most of a day.
Is a permit required to replace a water heater?
Most jurisdictions require a plumbing permit and inspection, which is bundled into a licensed installer's quote.
Tank or tankless - which is cheaper?
A tank unit is cheaper to install; tankless costs more upfront but can lower energy bills over its longer lifespan.
Figures localized from 2026 national baselines. Informational only - see our methodology.