Buyers replacing both a furnace and central air system typically pay between $5,500 and $12,000 for a complete installed package; the combined cost depends on system size, efficiency, and labor complexity. This article lists realistic cost ranges, per-unit pricing, and the main factors that drive the total price for a new furnace and central air installation.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furnace + AC Installed (combined) | $4,500 | $8,000 | $15,000 | Low: small home, basic units; High: high-efficiency, large homes, ductwork |
| Furnace Only (installed) | $2,000 | $4,200 | $8,000 | Assumes 80%-98% AFUE models |
| Air Conditioner Only (installed) | $2,000 | $3,800 | $7,000 | Assumes 14-20 SEER condensers |
| Ductwork Repair/Replace | $1,000 | $3,500 | $10,000 | Depends on linear feet and accessibility |
Typical Total Price for a New Furnace and Central Air Package
A full furnace and central air replacement usually ranges from $5,500 to $12,000 for most U.S. homes. This assumes a 1,800–2,500 sq ft suburban home, standard 2–3 ton AC, 80%–95% AFUE furnace, basic ductwork in acceptable condition, and average labor rates.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard single-family home, standard 2–3 ton system, mid-efficiency units.
Installed Cost Breakdown: Materials, Labor, Equipment, Permits
| Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery/Disposal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,000-$6,000 (units, coils, controls) | $1,200-$3,500 () | $200-$1,000 (rigging, lifts) | $50-$400 (local) | $100-$600 (old-system disposal) |
Materials and labor typically make up over 80% of the installed price; expensive materials or difficult labor access push the total higher. Labor includes removal, system set, electrical hookup, refrigerant charge, startup, and basic thermostat hookup.
How System Size, SEER Rating, and AFUE Change the Quote
Each increase in system capacity or efficiency yields predictable price steps: larger tonnage, higher SEER, and higher AFUE all cost more. Example thresholds: 1.5–2 ton systems often save $500–$1,000 vs. 3–4 ton; upgrading 14 SEER to 18–20 SEER tends to add $1,200–$3,000; moving from 80% to 95% AFUE furnace adds $700–$2,000.
Assumptions: price deltas reflect typical U.S. dealer markups and installation complexity.
Practical Ways To Lower the Furnace and AC Package Price
Control scope: replace only failed components, choose mid-efficiency models, and schedule during shoulder seasons to reduce labor premiums. Specific tactics: keep existing ductwork if sealed and functional, accept 14–16 SEER instead of top-tier SEER, and get 3 competitive quotes to trim markup.
Assumptions: homeowner willing to keep moderate efficiency and do small prep work (clear access, power off).
How Regional Markets Affect Installation Price Across the U.S.
Expect coastal and urban markets to run 10%–30% higher than Midwest or rural markets due to labor and permitting differences. Example deltas: Northeast/California +15%–30%, Pacific Northwest +10%–20%, Midwest/Plains -5%–10% relative to national averages.
Assumptions: comparisons reflect typical contractor labor rates, permit fees, and logistic costs.
Common Add‑Ons, Removal, and Permit Fees To Budget
| Item | Typical Cost | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Duct Sealing/Minor Repair | $250-$1,200 | Leaky ducts, local energy codes |
| New Thermostat (smart) | $100-$400 | Wi-Fi thermostat upgrade |
| AC Pad, Condenser Crane | $150-$900 | Hard-to-access yards, heavy condensing units |
| Permit & Inspection | $50-$450 | Municipal requirements |
| Old-System Disposal | $75-$300 | Contractor pickup and refrigerant reclaim |
Budget an extra 10%–20% of the system price for add-ons and unexpected disposal or permit charges. Many quotes exclude certain accessories, so verify the scope line-by-line.
Three Real‑World Quote Examples With Specs and Labor Hours
| Scenario | Specs | Labor Hours | Installed Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Replace, Small Home | 2 ton AC 14 SEER + 80% AFUE furnace | 10-12 hours | $4,500-$6,000 |
| Mid Upgrade, Average Home | 3 ton AC 16 SEER + 95% AFUE furnace, minor duct sealing | 14-20 hours | $7,000-$10,000 |
| High-End, Large Home | 4 ton AC 18-20 SEER + 98% AFUE furnace, new ductwork | 24-40 hours | $12,000-$18,000 |
These examples show how size, efficiency, and ductwork scope drive both labor hours and total price. Ask contractors for a line-item labor estimate and estimated hours to compare quotes accurately.