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Cost engine

How much does water heater replacement cost?

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

Verified August 2026

Water Heater Replacement cost

$1,200 – $5,400

Most homeowners pay around $2,150 for water heater replacement, or $1,200–$5,400 per installed unit. Permit fees add $70–$220.

Price breakdown

Budget scope$1,200
Typical project$2,150
Premium / complex$5,400
per installed unit$1,200 – $5,400
Permit fees$70 – $220
Timeline2-5 hours of work, under 2 weeks including permit and inspection

What drives the price

  • Tank versus tankless (tankless usually needs gas or electrical upgrades)
  • Capacity in gallons and recovery rate
  • Garage, attic or interior closet location
  • Code upgrades: pan, drain line, expansion tank, seismic or hurricane strapping
  • Removal and disposal of the old unit

Cost by city

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

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

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?

Yes. Florida jurisdictions require a plumbing permit for a water heater changeout because the work involves gas or electrical connections, temperature and pressure relief piping, and drainage. Replacing without a permit can cause insurance and resale problems.

Can I replace my own water heater?

A homeowner can pull an owner-builder permit and replace a water heater in a home they own and occupy. Electrical and gas connections must still pass inspection.

How long does a water heater last?

Standard tank units last 8-12 years; tankless units often reach 15-20 years with annual descaling. Florida's hard water shortens tank life in many areas.

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.