How much is a new AC unit for a 2000 sq ft?

How much a new AC unit for a 2000 sq ft house costs in 2026 is 4,500 to 8,000 dollars installed if ductwork exists, and 9,000 to 16,000 dollars if new ductwork needed, including equipment, labor, and permit, with 3.5 to 4-ton size required. For 2000 sq ft, you need 3.5 to 4-ton AC, or 42,000 to 48,000 BTU. If home already has furnace and ductwork, adding or replacing central AC costs: budget 14 SEER single stage like Goodman GSX14 3.5-ton costs 4,500 to 6,000 dollars installed, mid-range 16 to 17 SEER two-stage like Trane XR16 or Lennox EL16XC1 costs 5,500 to 8,000 dollars installed, premium 20 to 22 SEER variable speed like Trane XV20i or Lennox XC20 costs 7,500 to 11,000 dollars installed, including outdoor condenser, indoor evaporator coil, line set, refrigerant, and labor. If no ductwork exists, adding new ductwork for 2000 sq ft adds 5,000 to 8,000 dollars, making total 9,000 to 16,000 dollars. Ductless mini-split alternative for 2000 sq ft with 4 zones costs 8,000 to 14,000 dollars. Additional costs include electrical upgrade at 300 to 600 dollars and thermostat at 200 to 500 dollars. Region affects price: California and Northeast 15 to 20 percent higher. Always get 3 quotes and Manual J load calculation for exact size.