AC Installation Cost in South Carolina

New AC installation in South Carolina costs $4,400 to $9,900 in 2026, though city-to-city prices vary quite a bit. Both heating and cooling get heavy use in South Carolina: its larger communities average 2,495 heating and 2,043 cooling degree days a year.

AC Installation Prices in South Carolina Cities

City	Estimate	Heating / cooling degree days
Charleston	$5,200 to $11,800	1,623 / 2,447
Columbia	$4,000 to $9,100	2,572 / 2,075
North Charleston	$4,300 to $9,800	1,844 / 2,434
Mount Pleasant	$6,100 to $13,700	2,051 / 2,279
Rock Hill	$4,100 to $9,300	2,871 / 1,839

From 2020 through 2025, NOAA recorded 103 winter storm and ice events, 6 heat events, 28 extreme cold events and 649 hail reports in South Carolina. Those are the days when emergency HVAC calls pile up.

When It Makes Sense

The AC is 12 to 15 years old or more
It still runs on R-22 refrigerant
It has had more than one refrigerant leak
The house can't reach the thermostat setting on hot afternoons
Summer electric bills keep going up

What Moves the Price

Tonnage, based on house size and local climate
SEER2 rating and whether the compressor is single-stage or variable-speed
Whether the coil and line set also need replacing
Electrical work such as a new disconnect, breaker or wiring
The pad, permit and refrigerant (R-410A or the newer R-454B)

Common Questions

What size AC do I need?

It depends on square footage, insulation, windows and climate. The rough rule is a ton for every 450 to 650 sq ft, but only a Manual J calculation gives you a real number.

How long does a new AC last?

With yearly maintenance, 12 to 17 years. Salt air and extreme heat shorten that.

Other HVAC Prices in South Carolina

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