HVAC · Central Air Conditioning

Central Air Conditioner Replacement Cost, Permits and Who Does the Work

Removing an existing central air conditioner and installing a new one, typically handled by a hvac contractor.

Model reviewed August 2026

Typical cost

$8,200

National, standard scope

Range

$4,800 – $15,000

Low to high scope

Trade

HVAC contractor

DIY difficulty 1/5

Permit

Usually required

Plan on a permit and inspection

Do I need a permit for central air conditioner replacement?

Usually yes

Central Air Conditioner work at this scope touches structure, life safety or a permitted trade in most jurisdictions, so a permit and inspection are normally required. Always confirm with the building department that has jurisdiction over your address.

Cost breakdown

Modeled national figures for a standard single-family job.

Low endSimple scope, easy access, no surprises	$4,800
TypicalWhat most homeowners pay	$8,200
High endLarge scope, upgrades or difficult conditions	$15,000
Job type	Project
Cost varies by location	High

Variants

Distinct options within this job that buyers compare before committing.

Single-stageTwo-stageVariable speedHeat pump14 SEER218 SEER2

Calculators for this job

AC Size Calculator BTU Calculator AC Replacement Cost Calculator Furnace Replacement Cost Calculator

Related jobs

Related projects homeowners often plan together.

Replacement forCentral Air Conditioner Installation$4,800 – $15,000 Replacement forCentral Air Conditioner Maintenance$576 – $1,800 Replacement forCentral Air Conditioner Inspection$288 – $900 Replacement forCentral Air Conditioner Repair$1,056 – $3,300 Often combined withAC Compressor Replacement$900 – $4,500 Often combined withAC Compressor Repair$198 – $990 Often combined withEvaporator Coil Replacement$700 – $3,200 Often combined withAC Capacitor ReplacementCost under revalidation Often combined withEvaporator Coil Repair$154 – $704

Also searched as

You may also hear this called:

replace central air conditioner · new central air conditioner · central air conditioner replacement cost · central air conditioner swap

Frequently asked questions

How much does central air conditioner replacement cost?

Most homeowners pay between $4,800 and $15,000, with $8,200 typical for a standard single-family job. Figures are modeled national estimates, not quotes.

Do I need a permit for central air conditioner work?

Yes — in most jurisdictions this job is permitted and inspected. Check your local building department before work starts.

Who does central air conditioner replacement?

A hvac contractor handles this job. DIY difficulty is rated 1/5 (5 = very DIY friendly).

Does the price change much by location?

Yes. Across the states we price, the typical cost ranges from $7,380 to $10,740 — about a 46% spread — driven by labor rates, code requirements and permit fees.