How Much Does a 30,000 BTU Furnace & AC System Cost in 2025?

When someone asks me, “Hey Jake, how much will it cost to put in a 30,000 BTU furnace and air conditioner combo?” my honest answer is always: “It depends… but I can give you a good ballpark.”

Prices for HVAC equipment can vary like crazy—even for the exact same system—depending on where you live, who installs it, and what efficiency rating you choose. In this guide, I’ll break it all down so you know what’s fair in 2025 and where you can save without cutting corners.

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1. What You’re Actually Buying

A 30,000 BTU AC means the cooling side is sized to move about 2.5 tons of heat per hour out of your home. The furnace is matched to that cooling capacity so the blower, coil, and ductwork all work together.

The two big factors that change the price:

• Efficiency ratings → SEER2 for cooling, AFUE for heating.

• Furnace type → Gas or electric.

The more efficient the system, the more it costs upfront—but the less you’ll spend on utilities.

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2. Average Equipment Costs in 2025

Here’s what you can expect for equipment only (no installation yet):

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3. Installation Costs

Labor rates in 2025 vary widely:

• Rural Midwest: ~$85/hr.

• Coastal metros: $125–$175/hr.

Typical labor for a 30k BTU combo install: 12–20 hours depending on complexity.

Labor cost ranges:

• Simple replacement: $1,800–$2,500

• With ductwork mods: $2,500–$3,500

• With electrical or gas line upgrades: $3,500+

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4. Additional Costs to Expect

Even if your quote says “turnkey install,” watch for these extras:

• Permits: $100–$500 depending on city.

• Thermostat upgrade: $150–$400 (or $600+ for smart thermostats).

• Duct sealing/replacement: $1,000–$5,000 if needed.

• Old system removal/disposal: $100–$300.

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5. Total Installed Cost by Efficiency Level

Here’s the all-in price (equipment + labor + standard extras) for most homes in 2025:

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6. Regional Price Differences

Northern states often pay slightly less for the same equipment because heating dominates the market, and AC demand is seasonal.

Southern & coastal metros see higher labor rates and often more expensive high-SEER2 units because cooling is a priority.

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7. Gas vs. Electric Furnace Pairing Costs

• Gas Furnace: Usually $200–$500 more in equipment cost, plus venting and gas line installation if not already in place.

• Electric Furnace: Lower upfront install cost, but can cost more to run in cold climates due to higher electricity rates.

 

8. How to Save Without Cutting Corners

Jake’s tips:

• Get at least 3 quotes from licensed contractors.

• Shop in the off-season—late winter or early fall—when installers are less busy.

• Look for rebates from your utility and the federal government. In 2025, there are still significant incentives for high-efficiency units.

• Aim for mid-range efficiency unless your climate or long-term energy rates make premium worth it.

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9. Jake’s 2025 Price Cheat Sheet

• Entry-level install: $5,000–$6,500

• Mid-range install: $6,500–$8,500

• Premium install: $8,500–$11,000+

Prices include:

• Equipment (furnace + AC)

• Standard installation labor

• Basic thermostat

• Permit fees

• Old system haul-away

Does not include major ductwork replacement or electrical panel upgrades.

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Conclusion

In 2025, most homeowners will spend $6,000–$8,500 for a properly installed mid-range 30,000 BTU furnace/AC combo. Your final cost depends on efficiency ratings, furnace type, labor rates in your area, and any extra work needed.

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Related Reading:

• What Size HVAC Unit Do I Need? 

• Energy Efficiency & SEER2 Ratings: What to Expect from 30k BTU Combo Units

• Gas vs. Electric Furnace Pairings: Which Works Best with a 30,000 BTU AC?

In the next article we will know more about: Ductwork 101: Do You Need New Ducts for a 30,000 BTU Combo System?