Cost to Install HVAC System: 2026 Southern California Guide
Full system replacement pricing by tonnage — Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita Valley & Kern County
A complete HVAC system installation — new air conditioner and furnace, installed with permits — costs $13,990 to $24,990 in Southern California in 2026, depending on tonnage and efficiency tier. A 5-ton AC and furnace bundle runs $14,490–$18,490 for a good-tier system, $16,490–$21,490 better, and $18,990–$24,990 best. Each step down in tonnage reduces the price by about $500. AC-only replacement runs $9,900–$16,900 and furnace-only runs $6,900–$12,400. Those numbers include Manual J load calculation, permits with your county building department, Title 24 and HERS verification, old-equipment haul-away, and commissioning. DC Air and Heating finances at 0% APR for 24 months, 5.99% for 58 months, or 7.99% for 115 months.
Key Facts
- Complete AC + furnace system: $13,990–$24,990 installed
- Each tonnage step below 5 tons reduces cost roughly $500
- AC only: $9,900–$16,900 · Furnace only: $6,900–$12,400
- Permits, Title 24, and HERS testing included — never billed after
- Manual J load calculation before equipment is selected
- 0% APR for 24 months on approved credit
| System size | Good tier | Better tier | Best tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 ton (2,400–3,000 sq ft) | $14,490–$18,490 | $16,490–$21,490 | $18,990–$24,990 |
| 4 ton (1,900–2,400 sq ft) | $13,990–$17,990 | $15,990–$20,990 | $18,490–$24,490 |
| 3.5 ton (1,600–1,900 sq ft) | $13,490–$17,490 | $15,490–$20,490 | $17,990–$23,990 |
| 3 ton (1,300–1,600 sq ft) | $12,990–$16,990 | $14,990–$19,990 | $17,490–$23,490 |
| 2.5 ton (1,000–1,300 sq ft) | $12,490–$16,490 | $14,490–$19,490 | $16,990–$22,990 |
| 2 ton (under 1,000 sq ft) | $11,990–$15,990 | $13,990–$18,990 | $16,490–$22,490 |
Estimated range only — get an exact written price with a free in-home consultation or use our Instant Quote tool. Get an Instant Quote or call (661) 310-3340.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost to install HVAC system equipment in Southern California?
The cost to install HVAC system equipment — a complete air conditioner and furnace change-out — runs $13,990 to $24,990 installed in 2026, including Manual J sizing, permits, Title 24 and HERS verification, haul-away and commissioning. Each tonnage step below 5 tons reduces the price by roughly $500.
How much does it cost to install a new HVAC system?
In Southern California, $13,990 to $24,990 for a complete AC and furnace replacement installed with permits. The spread comes from tonnage, efficiency tier, whether ductwork needs repair or replacement, and electrical or gas upgrades required to meet current code.
Why are Southern California HVAC prices higher than national averages?
California has the strictest HVAC code in the country. Title 24 requires HERS verification of duct leakage and refrigerant charge by a third-party rater, permits are mandatory on change-outs, and licensed C-20 labor costs more here. A quote that looks 40% below these ranges is usually skipping permits or HERS.
What is included in your installed price?
Manual J load calculation, equipment, new line set or flush, pad or platform, electrical whip and disconnect, gas and venting to code, condensate routing, thermostat, permit and inspection, HERS testing where required, removal and haul-away of old equipment, full commissioning readings, and warranty registration.
How long does an HVAC installation take?
One to two days for a standard change-out in Lancaster, Palmdale, Quartz Hill, or Santa Clarita. Add a day when ductwork is being replaced or when an attic air handler has to be relocated. HERS testing is scheduled separately and does not require you to be home.
What size HVAC system do I need?
Not the size a rule of thumb gives you. We run a Manual J load calculation using your square footage, insulation, window area and orientation, ceiling height, and duct condition. Oversizing is the most common mistake in the high desert — it short-cycles, never dehumidifies, and wears the compressor out early. Use our sizing calculator for a rough starting point.
Do you finance HVAC installation?
Yes — Synchrony plans: 0% APR for 24 months, 5.99% for 58 months, or 7.99% for 115 months on approved credit. A 5-ton better-tier system at $18,990 is roughly $328 a month on the 58-month plan. Applications are a soft pull first and take about two minutes.
Are rebates available on a new system?
SCE, SoCalGas, and PG&E offer equipment and heat pump rebates that change through the year, and we handle the paperwork. Federal 25C tax credits expired at the end of 2025, so 2026 pricing should not assume a federal credit — anyone quoting one is out of date.
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