HVAC Replacement Cost in Southern California (2026)
Real installed pricing by tonnage and efficiency tier — Antelope Valley and Santa Clarita
HVAC replacement cost in Southern California runs $14,490 to $24,990 installed for a complete 5-ton air conditioner and gas furnace system in 2026, with each tonnage step below 5 tons reducing the price by roughly $500. The Good tier ($14,490–$18,490 at 5 ton) uses single-stage 14.3 SEER2 equipment, Better ($16,490–$21,490) adds two-stage cooling and a variable-speed blower, and Best ($18,990–$24,990) covers inverter-driven modulating systems with the longest warranties. Price drivers beyond equipment are duct condition, electrical upgrades, permits, line-set replacement, and roof versus closet placement. Financing starts at 0% APR for 24 months.
Key Facts
- 5-ton AC + furnace: $14,490 Good to $24,990 Best, installed
- Each tonnage below 5 ton drops roughly $500 per tier
- Duct replacement adds $3,500–$8,500 when needed
- Heat pump conversion adds $1,500–$3,000
- Permits, thermostat, haul-away and startup included
- 0% APR for 24 months, 5.99% for 58 months, 7.99% for 115 months
| System size | Good | Better | Best |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 ton (1,000–1,400 sq ft) | $12,490 – $16,490 | $14,490 – $19,490 | $16,990 – $22,990 |
| 3 ton (1,400–1,700 sq ft) | $12,990 – $16,990 | $14,990 – $19,990 | $17,490 – $23,490 |
| 3.5 ton (1,700–2,000 sq ft) | $13,490 – $17,490 | $15,490 – $20,490 | $17,990 – $23,990 |
| 4 ton (2,000–2,400 sq ft) | $13,990 – $17,990 | $15,990 – $20,990 | $18,490 – $24,490 |
| 5 ton (2,400–3,000 sq ft) | $14,490 – $18,490 | $16,490 – $21,490 | $18,990 – $24,990 |
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
How much does HVAC replacement cost in 2026?
In Southern California, $14,490 to $24,990 installed for a complete 5-ton AC and furnace system depending on efficiency tier. Smaller systems come down about $500 per tonnage step, so a 3-ton Good-tier system starts near $12,990.
What is included in the HVAC replacement cost?
Equipment, labor, mechanical permit and inspection, a new thermostat, refrigerant line flush or replacement, drain and electrical connections, removal and recycling of the old system, and full startup commissioning with a written performance report.
Why is HVAC replacement more expensive in California?
Title 24 energy code requirements, mandatory permitting and inspection, refrigerant transition to R-454B, prevailing labor rates, and duct-leakage testing on many change-outs all add cost relative to national averages.
Does replacing the ducts cost extra?
Yes — full duct replacement adds $3,500 to $8,500 depending on home size and attic access. We test duct leakage before quoting so you only pay for it when the existing system genuinely fails the test.
Is a heat pump more expensive than AC plus furnace?
A heat pump conversion adds roughly $1,500 to $3,000 up front but eliminates gas heating costs, and Southern California's mild winters make it the cheaper option to run in most Antelope Valley homes.
What is the monthly payment on an HVAC replacement?
A $16,990 system is about $708 per month at 0% APR for 24 months, roughly $328 per month at 5.99% over 58 months, or about $205 per month at 7.99% over 115 months on approved credit.
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