How Much Does Central AC Installation Cost in San Bernardino, CA?

San Bernardino pricing is near the national average. Updated for 2026.

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

Low End
$3,780
Average
$7,020
High End
$12,960
per system
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Central AC Installation Pricing in San Bernardino, CA

In San Bernardino, central ac installation costs are 8% above the national average, reflecting the city's diversified-driven economy. The balanced labor market means you have decent options when shopping for quotes. Most residents with a population base of 220K find the pricing competitive relative to the local cost of living.

Local climate plays a direct role in central ac installation costs here. Varied climate depending on location; earthquake considerations in some areas.

Market-specific factors matter in San Bernardino: higher cost of living in coastal areas; more affordable inland.

San Bernardino 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.

San Bernardino vs National Average

San Bernardino Average
$7,020
National Average
$6,500
Difference
+8%
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What Affects Central AC Installation Cost in San Bernardino?

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

San Bernardino Market Conditions

higher cost of living in coastal areas; more affordable inland

Local Climate Impact

varied climate depending on location; earthquake considerations in some areas

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Top-Rated Central AC Installation Pros in San Bernardino, CA

4 providers

Apex Restoration

โญ PREMIUM
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…4.2(106 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 797 Pine Rd, San Bernardino, CA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 2022
โœ“ Licensedโœ“ Insuredโšก Usually responds in 2 hours

Serving San Bernardino and surrounding areas since 2022. Licensed, insured, and committed to quality workmanship at fair prices.

Heritage Restoration

โœ… VERIFIED
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…4.6(22 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 333 Business Park Dr, San Bernardino, CA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 2006
โœ“ Licensedโœ“ InsuredBBB: A+โšก Usually responds in 4 hours

Quality Plumbing

โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…4.8(29 reviews)
๐Ÿ“ 216 Center St, San Bernardino, CA๐Ÿ—๏ธ Since 1997
โœ“ Licensedโœ“ Insured

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Tips to Save on Central AC Installation in San Bernardino

  • 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 San Bernardino Cost Trends (2020โ€“2024)

Prices have increased +17.7% over the last 5 years

$5,963
2020
$6,213
2021
$6,617
2022
$6,802
2023
$7,020
2024
YearNational AvgYoY Change
2020$5,963โ€”
2021$6,213+4.2%
2022$6,617+6.5%
2023$6,802+2.8%
2024$7,020+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 San Bernardino

$6,733
Avg Reported
$4,713
Lowest Reported
$9,763
Highest Reported

Recent Reports

$6,271
Dallas, TX ยท Jan 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
$6,763
Chicago, IL ยท Feb 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†โ˜†
$6,722
Phoenix, AZ ยท Mar 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
$7,499
Denver, CO ยท Apr 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
$5,897
Atlanta, GA ยท May 2024
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…
$7,721
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 San Bernardino than other cities?

San Bernardino'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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