How Much Does Central AC Installation Cost in Arlington, VA?

Arlington pricing is 30% above the national average. Updated for 2026.

Based on local labor rates, varied climate conditions, and Arlington's diversified economy.See our methodology

Low End
$4,550
Average
$8,450
High End
$15,600
per system
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Central AC Installation Pricing in Arlington, VA

Arlington is a high-cost market where central ac installation runs about 30% above the national average. The city's diversified economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 240K, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.

Local climate plays a direct role in central ac installation costs here. Four seasons mean year-round maintenance needs; coastal areas face flood and moisture risks.

Market-specific factors matter in Arlington: moderate to high cost of living depending on proximity to major cities.

Arlington has moderate permitting requirements. Depending on the scope of your central ac installation project, you may need local permits. A licensed contractor will handle the permitting process as part of the job in most cases.

Arlington vs National Average

Arlington Average
$8,450
National Average
$6,500
Difference
+30%
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What Affects Central AC Installation Cost in Arlington?

System size

1.5-2 ton (1,000 sq ft): $3,500-$6,000. 3 ton (1,500 sq ft): $4,500-$8,000. 4-5 ton (2,500+ sq ft): $6,000-$12,000

Efficiency

14 SEER (standard): $3,500-$6,000. 16 SEER (mid-range): $5,000-$8,000. 20+ SEER (high-eff): $7,000-$12,000

Arlington Market Conditions

moderate to high cost of living depending on proximity to major cities

Local Climate Impact

four seasons mean year-round maintenance needs; coastal areas face flood and moisture risks

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Top-Rated Central AC Installation Pros in Arlington, VA

6 providers

Heritage Contractors

โญ PREMIUM
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…4.7(148 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 488 Elm St, Arlington, VA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 1994
โœ“ Licensedโœ“ InsuredBBB: Aโšก Usually responds in 1 hours

Serving Arlington and surrounding areas since 1994. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.

All-Pro Electrical

โญ PREMIUM
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…3.6(28 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 147 Center St, Arlington, VA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 2013
โœ“ Licensedโœ“ InsuredBBB: Aโšก Usually responds in 2 hours

Serving Arlington and surrounding areas since 2013. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.

First Choice Plumbing

โœ… VERIFIED
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…3.6(83 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 348 Business Park Dr, Arlington, VA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 2020
โœ“ LicensedBBB: A+โšก Usually responds in 4 hours

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Tips to Save on Central AC Installation in Arlington

  • 1.Install in fall/winter off-season for 10-20% savings
  • 2.14-16 SEER units offer the best value for most climates
  • 3.Federal tax credits cover 30% of high-efficiency systems (up to $2,000)
  • 4.Get 3+ quotes โ€” AC installation pricing varies widely
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๐Ÿ“ˆ Central AC Installation in Arlington Cost Trends (2020โ€“2024)

Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years

$7,178
2020
$7,479
2021
$7,965
2022
$8,188
2023
$8,450
2024
YearNational AvgYoY Change
2020$7,178โ€”
2021$7,479+4.2%
2022$7,965+6.5%
2023$8,188+2.8%
2024$8,450+3.2%

Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.

๐Ÿ’ฌ What Did You Pay?

Real costs reported by homeowners for Central AC Installation in Arlington

$8,630
Avg Reported
$6,041
Lowest Reported
$12,514
Highest Reported

Recent Reports

$6,437
Dallas, TX ยท Jan 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
$8,759
Chicago, IL ยท Feb 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
$8,316
Phoenix, AZ ยท Mar 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
$9,003
Denver, CO ยท Apr 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
$6,986
Atlanta, GA ยท May 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
$11,598
Seattle, WA ยท Jun 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does central AC last?

15-20 years with regular maintenance. Systems in hot climates (Florida, Arizona) may last 12-15 years due to higher usage. Annual maintenance ($75-$200) extends lifespan significantly.

Why does central ac installation cost different in Arlington than other cities?

Arlington's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the diversified economy, varied climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and moderate permitting requirements. The balanced labor market also influences competitive pricing.

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