A new ducted air-source heat pump typically costs $8,000 to $16,000 installed in 2026 for an average home, with most homeowners paying around $10,000 to $13,000 for a mid-efficiency 3-ton system. Cold-climate and variable-speed models often cost $12,000 to $20,000, and ductless mini splits range from about $3,500 for a single room to $25,000 for a whole house. Geothermal systems cost far more, often $20,000 to $40,000 or more.
Last updated: October 2026. Prices are typical U.S. ranges from published contractor pricing and industry cost guides, and vary by region and home.
Estimate your heat pump installation cost
Enter your home size and a few details to get a ballpark range. It uses the same price ranges as the tables below.
Heat pump installation cost estimator
Estimate uses the price ranges in this guide. Before rebates. Get at least three written quotes; your contractor’s load calculation decides the final size.
Heat pump installation cost by type
| Type | Typical installed cost |
|---|---|
| Ducted air-source heat pump, standard (single- or two-stage) | $8,000 to $14,000 |
| Ducted air-source heat pump, variable-speed or cold-climate | $11,000 to $20,000 |
| Ductless mini split, single zone | $3,500 to $7,000 |
| Ductless mini split, multi-zone (3 to 5 zones) | $10,000 to $25,000 |
| Dual-fuel (heat pump + gas furnace) | $12,000 to $22,000 |
| Geothermal (ground-source) | $20,000 to $40,000+ |
Cost by size
| Size | Typical home | Installed cost (mid-efficiency, ducted) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 tons | 1,000 to 1,300 sq ft | $7,500 to $11,000 |
| 2.5 tons | 1,300 to 1,600 sq ft | $8,000 to $12,000 |
| 3 tons | 1,500 to 1,900 sq ft | $9,000 to $13,500 |
| 4 tons | 1,900 to 2,500 sq ft | $10,500 to $15,500 |
| 5 tons | 2,400 to 3,000 sq ft | $12,000 to $17,500 |
Sizing depends on climate and insulation. See our heat pump size calculator.
What’s typically included
- Outdoor heat pump unit and matched indoor air handler or coil
- Refrigerant line set connections, pad and disconnect
- Thermostat connection or a new heat-pump-compatible thermostat
- Removal and disposal of old equipment
- Startup and commissioning
Extra costs to budget for
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Electrical panel upgrade (if the panel lacks capacity) | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| New circuit and disconnect | $300 to $1,500 |
| Electric backup heat strips | $300 to $1,200 |
| Ductwork repairs or sealing | $500 to $3,000 |
| New ductwork | $3,000 to $10,000+ |
| Smart thermostat | $150 to $500 |
| Elevated stand or wall bracket (snowy climates) | $150 to $600 |
| Permit and inspection | $50 to $500 |
What affects the price
- Efficiency: higher SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings cost more up front and less to run.
- Cold-climate capability: models that hold capacity at 5°F cost more but avoid backup heat. See do heat pumps work in cold climates.
- Existing ducts and electrical service.
- Brand and contractor. Installation quality matters more than brand for comfort and lifespan.
- Refrigerant transition: new systems use R-454B or R-32. See R-410A phase-out.
Rebates and incentives in 2026
The federal 25C tax credit, which covered up to $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps, ended for installations after December 31, 2025 (details). Many utilities and state programs still offer heat pump rebates, sometimes several thousand dollars, especially in the Northeast and on the West Coast. Check your utility’s website and your state energy office before you sign a contract.
Is a heat pump worth it?
A heat pump replaces both a central AC and part or all of a furnace’s job. Compare the cost of replacing both with the operating-cost math in our heat pump vs. furnace guide. If your home has no ducts, see mini split installation cost per zone.
How to compare quotes
- Get at least three quotes from licensed contractors.
- Ask for a Manual J load calculation and equipment selection based on it.
- Compare model numbers, SEER2, HSPF2 and heating capacity at 5°F (cold climates).
- Confirm whether electrical work, backup heat, thermostat and permits are included.
- Ask about labor warranties and register the equipment for the full manufacturer parts warranty.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 3-ton heat pump cost installed?
Typically $9,000 to $13,500 for a mid-efficiency ducted system.
Is a heat pump more expensive than an AC?
A heat pump costs somewhat more than an AC of the same size, but it also provides heating.
How long does heat pump installation take?
Usually 1 to 3 days, longer if ductwork or electrical upgrades are needed.
Disclaimer: prices are estimates for general information and are not quotes.