A new central AC unit costs $3,500-$9,000 installed. See 2026 pricing by tonnage, brand, and efficiency rating.
If your air conditioner is over 12 years old or struggling to keep up, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair. Here are installed costs for central AC units in 2026.
2-Ton Unit (1,000-1,500 sq ft)
3-Ton Unit (1,500-2,000 sq ft)
4-Ton Unit (2,000-2,500 sq ft)
5-Ton Unit (2,500-3,500 sq ft)
A Manual J load calculation determines the right tonnage. Undersized units run constantly; oversized units short-cycle and waste energy.
Minimum efficiency is 15 SEER (2023+ regulation). Units rated 18-22 SEER cost more but save significantly on cooling bills.
Premium brands (Carrier, Trane, Lennox) cost 20-40% more than value brands (Goodman, Rheem) with comparable warranties.
Tight access, rooftop units, or relocating the condenser pad can add $500-$2,000 in labor.
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Most central AC units last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Units in hot climates may need replacement sooner.
For most climates, 16-18 SEER offers the best balance of upfront cost and energy savings. In very hot regions, 20+ SEER may be worth the premium.
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