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How much does ac replacement cost?

National price ranges for ac replacement, the unit pricing contractors quote from, and what the same job costs across local markets.

Verified August 2026

AC Replacement cost

$5,200 – $15,500

Most homeowners pay around $8,900 for ac replacement, or $1,600–$3,200 per ton of cooling capacity. Permit fees add $90–$320.

Price breakdown

Budget scope$5,200
Typical project$8,900
Premium / complex$15,500
per ton of cooling capacity$1,600 – $3,200
Permit fees$90 – $320
Timeline1 day of work, 1-3 weeks including permit and inspection

What drives the price

  • System size in tons and SEER2 efficiency rating
  • Heat pump versus straight cool with electric heat
  • Air handler location (attic, closet, garage)
  • Duct condition and any required duct replacement
  • Electrical upgrades and new disconnect

Cost by city

Same scope, adjusted for local labor, material and permit pricing.

AC cost in Naples$6,400 – $19,200 · +24%AC cost in Miami$6,100 – $18,300 · +18%AC cost in Fort Lauderdale$5,900 – $17,700 · +14%AC cost in West Palm Beach$5,800 – $17,400 · +12%AC cost in Fort Myers$5,700 – $16,900 · +9%AC cost in Sarasota$5,600 – $16,700 · +8%AC cost in Cape Coral$5,600 – $16,600 · +7%AC cost in Venice$5,500 – $16,400 · +6%AC cost in Tampa$5,400 – $16,100 · +4%AC cost in Bradenton$5,500 – $16,300 · +5%AC cost in St. Petersburg$5,400 – $16,000 · +3%AC cost in Clearwater$5,300 – $15,800 · +2%AC cost in Orlando$5,300 – $15,800 · +2%AC cost in Port St. Lucie$5,300 – $15,800 · +2%AC cost in St. Augustine$5,200 – $15,500 · 0%AC cost in Port Charlotte$5,200 – $15,500 · 0%AC cost in Brandon$5,200 – $15,500 · 0%AC cost in Melbourne$5,100 – $15,300 · -1%AC cost in Kissimmee$5,100 – $15,200 · -2%AC cost in Daytona Beach$5,100 – $15,200 · -2%AC cost in Jacksonville$5,000 – $14,900 · -4%AC cost in Lakeland$4,900 – $14,700 · -5%AC cost in Pensacola$4,900 – $14,700 · -5%AC cost in Gainesville$4,900 – $14,600 · -6%AC cost in Tallahassee$4,800 – $14,400 · -7%

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to replace an AC unit?

Yes. A mechanical permit is required for a residential air conditioner changeout in every Florida jurisdiction, and the work must be inspected. Licensed HVAC contractors pull this permit as part of the job.

What size AC do I need in Florida?

A rough Florida rule of thumb is one ton of cooling per 500-600 square feet of conditioned space, but proper sizing uses a Manual J load calculation that accounts for insulation, window area, orientation and ceiling height. Oversized systems short-cycle and fail to remove humidity.

How long does an AC last in Florida?

Because systems run nearly year-round and coastal salt air accelerates corrosion, Florida air conditioners typically last 10-15 years versus 15-20 in cooler climates.

Sources

Sources & verification

Last verified August 2026. Cost figures are modeled estimates based on national baselines adjusted for local labor and material pricing — they are not quotes. Permit rules change; confirm with the building department before starting work.