HVAC cost per square foot
As a rule of thumb, replacing a furnace and air conditioner costs $3 to $6 per square foot of living space. For a 2,000 square foot house, that is about $6,000 to $12,000. New-construction HVAC runs about $1.75 to $2.50 per square foot.
Quick answer
$3 – $6per square foot, furnace + AC
Most replacements land between $3 and $6 per square foot. New construction is cheaper at about $1.75 to $2.50 because ducts go in before the walls are closed, while retrofits with new ductwork can approach $8 per square foot.
Cost by home size
| Home size (sq ft) | Cost installed |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 1,200 | $3,600 – $7,200 |
| 1,500 | $4,500 – $9,000 |
| 1,600 | $4,800 – $9,600 |
| 1,800 | $5,400 – $10,800 |
| 2,000 | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| 2,500 | $7,500 – $15,000 |
| 3,000 | $9,000 – $18,000 |
Central AC only, by home size
Air conditioner prices climb with tonnage. Note that published AC-only ranges often include higher-efficiency equipment, which is why they can exceed the per-square-foot rule for small homes.
| Home size (sq ft) | AC size (tons) | Cost installed |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 1.5 – 2 | $4,500 – $7,000 |
| 1,200 | 2 – 2.5 | $5,000 – $7,500 |
| 1,500 | 2.5 – 3 | $6,000 – $8,500 |
| 1,800 | 3 – 4 | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| 2,000 | 3.5 – 4.5 | $7,000 – $11,500 |
| 2,500 | 4.5 – 5 | $8,500 – $13,500 |
| 3,000 | 5+ | $10,000 – $16,000+ |
Why square footage is only a starting point
- Climate: hot, humid or very cold areas need more capacity per square foot.
- Insulation and windows: a well-sealed home may need a smaller system.
- Ductwork: replacing ducts adds $25 to $55 per linear foot.
- Efficiency: high-SEER and modulating equipment can double the equipment price.
- Layout: multi-story homes may need zoning or two systems.
For a sizing estimate, try the AC size calculator.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does HVAC cost for a 2,000 square foot house?
About $6,000 to $12,000 for a new furnace and central AC, or $7,000 to $11,500 for a central AC alone in that size home.
How much does HVAC cost for a 1,500 square foot house?
About $4,500 to $9,000 for a furnace and AC at $3 to $6 per square foot.
What is the HVAC cost per square foot for new construction?
About $1.75 to $2.50 per square foot, since ducts are installed before the walls are finished.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.