Furnace Replacement Cost (2026)

A gas furnace replacement costs $3,500 to $10,000 installed in 2026, with most homeowners around $5,500 to $7,500. Efficiency rating, furnace size, and how much of the existing venting and ductwork can be reused drive the number.

Cost breakdown

• Standard-efficiency (80% AFUE), like-for-like swap: $3,500-$6,000.
• High-efficiency (95%+ AFUE) condensing furnace: $5,500-$10,000.
• Upsizing / new gas or electrical line: add $500-$2,000.
• New venting (condensing furnaces need PVC): add $500-$1,500.
• Duct modifications or a new return: add $1,000-$3,000.
• Permit and inspection: $100-$400 depending on jurisdiction.

What actually drives the price

Furnace capacity (BTU), efficiency tier, and brand set the equipment cost. Installation cost swings on whether it's a straight swap or involves new gas piping, a condensate drain, new PVC venting for a condensing unit, electrical work, or duct and return modifications. Attic or crawlspace installs cost more than a basement. Regional labor rates and permit fees vary widely.

Confirm what carries over before quoting

A furnace quote is really a question of how much of the existing system survives. Same size, same efficiency class, reusable venting and ducts is the cheap case. A photo of the current unit's data plate, the venting, and the surrounding space tells you which case you're in before the truck rolls.

Scoping this job from photos

The visible factors — size, access, condition, and finish level — are usually enough for a first-pass range from a few photos and a short description of what the customer wants. A final walkthrough is still worth doing before a firm number, since what's behind walls, underground, or under a surface can't be seen in a photo. Fast Snap Pro lets a customer send photos and describe the job so you can return a realistic starting range before scheduling the on-site visit. See also the HVAC installation cost guide and HVAC service call pricing.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to replace a furnace in 2026?

$3,500 to $10,000 installed, typically $5,500 to $7,500. High-efficiency condensing furnaces are at the upper end.

Is a high-efficiency furnace worth the extra cost?

In colder climates with high gas use, the fuel savings can pay back the difference over the unit's life; in mild climates the payback is slower.

What makes furnace replacement more expensive?

Switching to a condensing furnace (new PVC venting and a condensate drain), upsizing, new gas or electrical runs, duct modifications, and difficult install locations.

Can furnace replacement be quoted from photos?

A starting range can, from photos of the existing unit's data plate, the venting, and the install area. A load calculation and site visit are needed before a firm quote.

Give faster ballpark numbers

Try Fast Snap Pro to turn customer photos into a starting price range built on your own rates, before you schedule the in-person walkthrough.