Independent guide
AC replacement cost
Typical US prices for a new AC. The source and date are next to every number.
AC replacement
| Source | Cost, US | Page date |
|---|---|---|
| Thumbtack | Replacing an existing AC: average $4,230, range $2,063 to $8,667 | Jul 2026 |
| Fixr | Average $6,000, range $5,000 to $12,000 | Jan 2026 |
| Today's Homeowner | About $6,000, range $5,000 to $14,000 | Mar 2025 |
| Bob Vila | Average $5,860, range $3,882 to $7,903Page says its numbers come from Angi and HomeAdvisor. | Jun 2024 |
| This Old House | Average $8,460 with installationFrom the site's own 2026 survey of owners. | Oct 2026 |
Prices are national, not for a single city. Your quote depends on the size of the home, the equipment and local labor rates.
Why the numbers differ
Each guide uses its own method. Some base their estimates on other sites, such as Angi and HomeAdvisor, and say so on their pages. Two guides can quote different numbers for the same job, so we show them side by side instead of one average.
Questions
When should I replace my AC instead of repairing it?
ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement if your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, or if it needs frequent repairs while energy bills rise. A contractor can compare the safety and cost-effectiveness of repair versus replacement.
Source: energystar.gov
What does the efficiency rating on an AC mean?
Air conditioners use SEER, which shows how efficiently a cooling system runs over a whole season. A higher number means more efficient cooling. EER measures efficiency at a specific outdoor temperature of 95 degrees F.
Source: energystar.gov
Should I replace both the indoor and outdoor AC units?
ENERGY STAR says it is very important to replace both parts of a split central air conditioner together. Installing only a new outdoor unit is likely to give low efficiency and may lead to premature failure.
Source: energystar.gov
Does installation quality affect a new AC?
Yes. ENERGY STAR says improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent and may shorten the equipment's life. Ask your contractor about proper sizing and airflow.
Source: energystar.gov
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What's going on?
Prices on our pages come from the sources linked next to them. How we work