Find AC Installation Costs in Your State
AC installation costs range from $3,500–$7,500 for central air conditioning. Ductless mini-split systems cost $2,000–$5,000. Full replacement of an existing system runs $4,000–$8,000.
Pricing depends on system type, size, efficiency rating, and whether new ductwork is needed.
AC System Types Compared
Central AC (Split System) — Best for homes with existing ductwork. Costs $3,500–$7,500 installed. Lasts 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
Ductless Mini-Split — Ideal for homes without ducts or room additions. Costs $2,000–$5,000. Lasts 15–20 years. Zone-by-zone control.
Heat Pump (Cooling Mode) — Provides both heating and cooling. Costs $4,000–$8,000. Lasts 12–17 years. Best for moderate climates.
Packaged Unit — All-in-one unit installed on roof or ground. Costs $3,000–$6,000. Good for limited indoor space. Lasts 15–20 years.
AC Installation Types & Costs
Central AC (Split System)$3,500–$7,500
Ductless Mini-Split$2,000–$5,000
Full AC Replacement$4,000–$8,000
New Ductwork$2,000–$6,000
Smart Thermostat$200–$500
Zoning System$2,000–$3,500
What Affects AC Installation Costs?
Understanding what drives the price helps you avoid overpaying — and know when a quote is reasonable.
System type and size — Central split systems cost $3,500–$7,500. Ductless mini-splits run $2,000–$5,000. Sizing depends on home square footage, insulation, and local climate.
Efficiency rating (SEER) — Units rated 16+ SEER cost more upfront but reduce monthly energy bills by 20–40%. Federal minimum is 14–15 SEER depending on region.
Ductwork needs — Homes without existing ductwork need new ducts at $2,000–$6,000. Homes with old or leaky ducts may need sealing or replacement before AC installation.
Permits and electrical — Most jurisdictions require permits ($100–$500). Older homes may need electrical panel upgrades to support a new AC system.
Find AC Installation Cost cost in your state
AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVirginiaWashingtonWisconsin
Other cost guides
Ready to see local costs?
Select your state above or call to connect with a local pro.