How Much Does a New Air Conditioning Unit Cost? A Georgia-Sized Breakdown for Homes & Businesses

If you’ve lived through a Georgia summer, then you already know—having a good air conditioner isn’t a luxury, it’s survival. Around here in Buford and all across the Southeast, we rely on our AC units from April to October (and sometimes even longer). So when your system starts sputtering or just can’t keep up with the heat, you’re probably wondering: how much is it going to cost to install a new one?

Now, that’s a fair question. But the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The cost of a new air conditioning unit depends on several things: whether it’s for a home or business, how big the space is, what kind of system you need, and even when and where you’re getting it installed. That’s where we come in. With over 20 years of experience serving families and businesses right here in Gwinnett County, Indoor Comfort Solutions is here to give you a straight-up, no-nonsense breakdown of what you can expect—along with some neighborly advice to help you make the best choice for your budget and comfort.

Commercial vs. Residential Systems: Two Different Worlds

First things first: the cost of an AC system varies significantly depending on whether you’re cooling a home or a commercial space.

In most homes across Buford and the surrounding areas, you’ll find central air conditioning systems or ductless mini-splits. These systems are built to cool a single-family residence evenly and efficiently. Residential systems are usually smaller, easier to install, and more standardized in design. That keeps the overall cost lower and the installation process simpler.

Commercial systems, on the other hand, are a different animal entirely. Businesses often need rooftop units, packaged systems, or large-scale split systems that can handle high occupancy, open spaces, and unique zoning needs. These systems require careful planning, more powerful equipment, and in some cases, integration with building management systems. And naturally, all of that comes with a higher price tag.

So what does that mean in terms of numbers?

For homeowners in Buford, you can expect to pay somewhere between $5,500 and $10,000 for a full AC system replacement, depending on size and features. For commercial properties, that number can jump to anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000—or more for large buildings or specialty equipment.

What You’re Actually Paying For: Breaking Down the Costs

Now let’s talk about what goes into that number. When someone quotes you a price for a new AC system, they’re not just talking about the outdoor unit. There’s a lot more that goes into a proper installation—and every part of it plays a role in the final cost.

The AC System Itself

The biggest piece of the puzzle is the system itself. For a residential central air system, the actual unit typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000 depending on brand, efficiency rating, and capacity. That includes the outdoor condenser, the indoor evaporator coil, and sometimes a new air handler or furnace, depending on your setup. Higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings mean better energy efficiency—and that usually means a higher upfront cost.

Ductless mini-splits come in at a similar range for single-zone systems but can cost more if you need multiple indoor units or want advanced features like Wi-Fi control or variable-speed compressors.

For commercial systems, prices for the units themselves vary even more widely based on capacity, customization, and system type. A basic rooftop unit might cost $6,000 to $12,000, but that doesn’t include the added cost of mounting, ductwork modifications, or connecting to building controls.

The Installation & Labor Costs

Installation labor is another major component. In the Southeast, labor costs are generally a little more affordable than up north or on the coasts, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. A proper installation takes time, skill, and experience. You’re paying for licensed professionals who know how to size the system correctly, ensure code compliance, and make sure everything is sealed, charged, and running efficiently. Labor often makes up 20 to 30 percent of the total cost, which usually comes out to $1,500 to $3,000 or more depending on the complexity of the job.

And then there are the extras—those things that don’t always make it into the headline number but can add up quickly. This might include upgrading your thermostat, adding air purification, insulating ductwork, or modifying return air paths. If your old system used outdated refrigerants like R-22, you’ll also need new refrigerant lines and possibly new duct connections to handle modern systems that use R-410A or newer blends.

What Makes Prices Higher or Lower in the Southeast?

Living in Georgia has its perks—long summers, lower cost of living, and friendly neighbors. But our climate and building styles definitely influence AC pricing, and it’s worth knowing how!

For starters, we need bigger systems here than folks up north. In cooler climates, a 2-ton unit might be enough for a whole house. Here? Not so much. With average July highs in the 90s and humidity thick enough to cut with a knife, most homes in Buford need a system in the 3 to 5-ton range. Bigger units cost more, not just in equipment but in energy consumption and installation complexity.

Second, we tend to run our AC units hard for months at a time, which puts a premium on efficiency. That’s why so many homeowners opt for systems with a SEER rating of 16 or higher. While you’ll pay more upfront for a high-efficiency system, the long-term energy savings are real—and that matters when you’re cooling your home 8+ months a year.

READ MORE: HOW TO PICK THE BEST NEW AC SYSTEM

Third, we deal with a lot of older homes in the area. That means retrofitting new systems into existing ductwork, upgrading electrical panels, or making code-required changes to condensate drainage and refrigerant lines. All of that adds cost and labor to the job.

And finally, material prices have gone up across the board. Between supply chain issues and recent tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, the cost of HVAC components has increased significantly over the past few years. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re comparing current prices to what you paid a decade ago.

Long-Term Value: It’s Not Just About the Install Price

We get it—nobody’s excited about dropping several thousand dollars on a new air conditioner. But what we always tell our customers is this: a good AC system isn’t an expense. It’s an investment in your comfort, your health, and even your property value.

A high-quality installation and a well-matched system can lower your energy bills, improve air quality, and reduce repairs and headaches for years to come. And with many manufacturers now offering 10-year warranties on parts and extended labor warranties available through reputable contractors, you’re not just buying cool air—you’re buying peace of mind.

Plus, with rebates and incentives from utility companies or manufacturers, you may be able to shave a little off that upfront price. Financing is also available for most installs, letting you spread out the cost over time instead of swallowing it all at once.

So, What’s the Best AC System for You?

That depends on your space, your budget, and your goals. If you’re cooling a typical single-family home and want something that’s reliable and efficient, a mid-range 16 SEER central air system is often a great value. If you’re planning a remodel or have a room that’s always too hot, a ductless mini-split might be the perfect solution.

For business owners, it’s all about balancing energy efficiency with occupant comfort and system reliability. A well-installed rooftop package unit or zoned split system might cost more upfront, but if it keeps your employees happy and your building running smoothly, it’s worth every penny.

The key is to work with a contractor like Indoor Comfort Solutions who takes the time to understand your needs and offers honest guidance—not just a sales pitch. At Indoor Comfort Solutions, that’s been our way of doing business since day one. We’ll help you compare options, understand the total cost (no hidden surprises), and make sure your investment serves you well for years to come.

Wrapping It All Up: Trust Indoor Comfort Solutions Today!

So how much does a new air conditioning unit cost? Well, in Buford and the broader Southeast, it’s going to fall somewhere between $5,500 and $15,000 for homes, and $10,000 to $30,000 or more for businesses—depending on your system, space, and preferences. That price covers not just the unit, but the labor, materials, and expertise it takes to do the job right.

If you’re looking to replace your old AC or install a new one from scratch, don’t let the process overwhelm you. Give us a call, and we’ll walk you through it step by step—just like we’ve done for hundreds of homeowners and business owners across Gwinnett County.

Because at the end of the day, staying cool shouldn’t be complicated. And when it comes to comfort, we’ve got your back.