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Painting the exterior or interior of your house can be the quickest way to dramatically alter its appearance. A new coat (or two) of paint can freshen and update the look of your home, protect your siding from the elements, and increase the resale value of your house. The question is, how much does a paint job cost?

Whether you’re looking to paint one room or the entire exterior of your home, the cost will depend on the materials used, whether you hire professional help or do it yourself, and the size and texture of the surface area to be painted. Here’s a look at the numbers you can expect.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint an Interior?

First, focus on the paint job you’ll spend the most of your time looking at: the interior. The cost of painting an interior space varies greatly due to the type of paint materials you choose, what condition the previous surface is in, if you’re planning on doing the doors and trim in addition to walls, if you hire a professional painter, and how many rooms you’d like to paint.

Cost to Paint per Square Footage

It generally costs around $2 to $6 per square foot to paint an interior space, including materials and labor. So, using $3.50 per square foot as an average, it would run $3,500 to paint the interior of a 1,000 square foot home and $10,500 to paint a 3,000 square foot home.

If you do the job yourself, you’ll need to determine what materials you’ll need to come up with a price (more on that below). When looking at material costs, consider that a gallon of paint normally covers around 400 square feet and know that sometimes labels overestimate how much surface area a gallon can cover. If you’re painting a textured wall, you’ll likely require more paint because the texture increases surface area, and if you’re painting a raw material like fresh drywall or bare wood, the absorption into the substrate can quickly increase the amount of paint you’ll need.

When hiring help to paint your home, how quickly you want the job done also may affect the overall cost. An experienced painter might be able to cover a wall faster and therefore cost less, whereas a more methodical painter may need more time. Generally, you can expect a painter to be able to cover about 100 to 120 square feet in an hour.

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Cost to Paint by Paint Type

Prices vary widely based on what type of paint you choose and how much material you need, but you can base estimates off the fact that most paint is priced in the range of $15 to $50 a gallon for a value to mid-tier brand, and you’ll probably need between one to two gallons of paint per room.

Primer, which is a necessary first step for most projects, might cost around $20 to $30 a gallon can, but if you’re on a budget or time crunch, you can purchase paint colors that combine primer to save time. If using primer, which is especially necessary when painting a lighter color atop a darker one, you’ll typically use at least two quarts of primer to cover one average-sized wall.

The actual price of paint will depend on brand and quality. Here’s a breakdown of how much you may pay for a gallon of paint based on brand.

Professional Painter Costs

On average, professional painters cost $20 to $50 per hour per painter. The overall cost to paint your house can increase based on the prep work needed before painting and any equipment rentals such as scaffolding or a lift that may be required.

Non-Paint Costs

When painting your home, you’ll encounter a variety of costs for the tools required to paint. Some of these supplies like brushes and drop cloths can be used again, so in the long run, purchasing your own tools may save you money. If paying for labor, you may be able to deduct the costs of supplies if you provide your own, though professional painters typically work with their own reusable supplies.

Necessary painting supplies may include:

•   Painter’s tape To protect areas like ceilings and trims from getting paint on them.

•   Dropcloth To cover floors and furniture that could be damaged.

•   Ladder To paint a high wall or harder-to-reach areas.

•   Paint tray or bucket You’ll add a small amount of paint to this tray or bucket to use while painting to efficiently use a roller and to preserve the unused portion of the original gallon of paint.

•   Paint rollers and brushes A roller covers larger areas more evenly while a small brush can be used for touch-ups and corner cut-in.

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How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior?

The national average cost of painting a home exterior is around $3,177. However, your actual cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of your home, type of siding, and prep work involved. While the price tag can be hefty, painting the exterior of your home could increase your home’s value, potentially improve the structural integrity of the building, and give you the chance to make any needed exterior repairs at the same time.

Two of the biggest factors that determine how much it costs to paint your home exterior are square footage and how many stories your home has (hint: the more stories, the higher the price). Additionally, the type of window framing (wood, metal, or vinyl) can increase the amount of time required to complete the work and affect the price.

While costs vary based on factors like location and type of paint, this chart from Angi, the home improvement site, should give you an idea of what it may cost to paint your house. Please note that these estimates include labor costs as the painting of the exterior is a job better suited for a professional.

Exterior painting can get complicated due to the variety of materials you can find on the outside of a home. Different materials require different paints and tools in order to prepare them for the outdoor elements.

To budget for how much it might cost to paint the exterior of your house, you have to look at each type of material you’ll have to paint. The following estimates look at the costs of painting a few materials, including the tools, paint, and labor possibly required to complete the paint job.

Concrete Siding

Cost estimate: $500 (approximately 250 sq. ft.) to $3,000 (approximately 1,000 sq. ft.)

Why: Because concrete walls have to be prepared before painting, you may be required to remove previous finishes to ensure the paint won’t peel or chip off, which can increase labor costs. In order to prime the concrete, you may need special sealants, paints, and primers to help the final coat of paint endure against the elements.

Aluminum Siding

Cost estimate: $400 to $3,500 for 1,000 square feet

Why: Aluminum siding generally doesn’t require a lot of prep work. However, if there is existing pain that is chipping, you may need to have the siding stripped and primed before painting.

Stucco Siding

Cost estimate: $1,400 to $6,000 for 1,000 square feet

Why: Stucco often requires significant prep work before it can be painted, such as caulking and filling gaps. And because the surface is so textured, stucco typically requires around 50% more paint than smooth exterior siding. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the siding instead of repainting it.

Vinyl Siding

Cost estimate: $600 to $3,500 for 1,000 square feet

Why: Vinyl siding needs to be cleaned and repaired, if necessary, before beginning to paint, and a careful evaluation of the benefits is often the best approach. In some cases it may be more cost-effective to replace the vinyl, though the cost will run higher than repainting.

Wood Siding

Cost estimate: $700 to $3,000 for 1,000 square feet (not including trim)

Why: Similar to painting wood furniture or floors, wood siding that is damaged due to element exposure can be painted or stained. This process may help defend wood siding against sun, humidity, pollen, mold, and other environmental elements like insects. The cost might increase if the wood has holes or other issues, but the painting process should help protect your home’s exterior from needing more repairs later on.

Recommended: 3 Smart Exterior Home Remodel Ideas

Tips on How to Pay for the Cost of Painting Your House

If you run the numbers and the cost of your home painting project is more than you can comfortably cover in cash, you may want to consider some type of financing.

One option is to take out a home equity loan or line of credit. These loans are based on the equity you have built up in your home and use your home as collateral for the loan.

Another option is a home improvement loan. This is essentially an unsecured personal loan that is used for home repairs or upgrades. You receive a lump sum up front which you can use to pay for an interior or exterior paint project; you then repay the loan over a set term, often five to seven years, with regular monthly payments. Interest rates are typically fixed.

Recommended: How to Apply for a Personal Loan

The Takeaway

The cost to paint a house is dependent upon the size and texture of the surface area, the kind of paint used, and whether you hire a professional or tackle the painting yourself. Typically, an interior paint job will cost $2,000 to $18,000 and an exterior job will average $3,177 but could go considerably higher. If you don’t have the available cash to pay for the costs of painting, you may want to wait until you’ve saved up enough funds to cover the project. If you want or need to get the project done sooner, you might consider some type of financing, such as a home equity loan or a personal loan.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How much does it cost to paint the interior of a house?

As of mid-2025, painting the interior of a house can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to several thousand dollars or more. Factors include size of the home, complexity of the job, quality of the paint, where you live (and the cost of living), and whether you DIY any elements.

How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house?

On average, in mid-2025, it costs an average of $3,177 to paint the exterior of a house, but it could cost considerably more depending on such factors as the size, location, siding materials, and how many stories a house has.

Is it cheaper to paint a house yourself?

Yes, it is typically cheaper to paint a house yourself, but it’s wise to make sure you have the skills required to do the job so you stay safe and are happy with the results.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOPL-Q225-077

Home appliances typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, and doing so can be expensive. Due to the cost and inconvenience, you definitely want to get the entire life out of them before you replace them.

At a certain point, however, it can make more financial sense to get a new appliance vs. paying to have it repaired. Where do you draw the line? Read on to learn how long your major home appliances should last, plus signs that it may be time to replace them.

Before Replacing Anything

Before you replace any appliance you believe is beyond repair, you’ll want to make certain the appliance is no longer under warranty. Calling the manufacturer before shelling out cash for something new when the old one might still be under warranty is a good place to start.

Beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, there may be other options for appliance replacement. Some homeowners may have a home warranty, which acts as a sort of supplemental insurance on appliances in the home that homeowner’s insurance doesn’t typically cover.

It’s important to understand the details of the home warranty to make sure all the rules are followed to have the repair or replacement covered. Another option may be to have a small amount of money saved to cover any potential repairs or replacement that will certainly come up sooner or later.

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Replacing Common Home Appliances

Here are details on replacing some of the most common home appliances.

Dishwasher

Typical lifespan: The average lifespan of a dishwasher should be about nine years. However, that doesn’t mean everyone will get a decade of bliss with their appliance. About 23% of all newly purchased dishwashers are likely to develop problems or break within the first five years, according to Consumer Reports data.

Cost to replace: The average cost, with installation, of a new dishwasher is $1,300, according to Angi, the home improvement site.

Signs of wear and tear: Typical signs a dishwasher is in need of a little care include leaking, door-latching problems, dishes coming out spotty, or the machine making unusual noises, among other things.

How to make it last longer: Reading the instruction manual and heeding the advice on cleaning the appliance and replacing the appropriate filters is the recommended best practice to get the most years of use out of the unit.

Refrigerator

Typical lifespan: The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about nine to 15 years. However, like dishwashers, fridges also tend to come with some issues at the five-year mark.

Cost to replace: The average cost to purchase a refrigerator is $1,000 to $3,000, not including installation cost (which can average around $210).

Signs of wear and tear: Signs of typical wear and tear include a fridge that is hot to the touch in the back, visible condensation (inside or outside of the unit), excessive frost in the freezer, and unusual noises.

How to make it last longer: Refrigerators should be cleaned regularly to keep them in tip-top shape. This means going deep by keeping door gaskets and condenser coils clean. Since a refrigerator needs space around it to operate efficiently, keeping the top of the unit clear of clutter is important. If the fridge has an ice maker or water filter, cleaning them regularly will keep them in good working order.

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Range

Typical lifespan: The typical lifespan of a kitchen stove and oven — sometimes simply referred to as a range — are dependent on whether it is electric or gas. Electric ranges typically last 13-15 years, while gas ranges should last 15-17 years.

Cost to replace: The price of a new oven and stove combo can range from $600 to $1,300, without installation (which can run $100 to $300).

Signs of wear and tear: Usual signs of wear and tear on a range can include visible cracks in the top, lack of heat on either the cooktop or in the oven, and control panel issues.

How to make it last longer: Making a range last longer through regular cleanings is a consumer’s best bet (are you seeing a theme yet?). Beyond the exterior, also make sure to clean the fans, filters, and oven interior.

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Washing Machine

Typical lifespan: The average lifespan of a washing machine is five to 15 years, though some brands claim their machines have an even longer lifespan than that. Still, about 30% of all newly purchased washers are likely to develop problems or completely break within the first five years.

Cost to replace: The cost to replace a washing machine can run between $700 and $1,300. Like the other appliances listed, the cost to install a new washer will likely cost extra.

Signs of wear and tear: Typical signs a washing machine is on its way out include leaks on the floor, unusual sounds, and water no longer filling the internal drum.

How to make it last longer: Beyond the normal cleanings, it’s also important to ensure a washing machine stays balanced, meaning make sure it stays level. After years of loads, it might toss and turn a bit, so leveling it every now and then can pay off. And, of course, regular maintenance like checking hoses and connections, checking for clogs, and ensuring filters are clear are recommended maintenance tasks.

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Dryer

Typical lifespan: A dryer typically lasts 13 years.

Cost to replace: A new dryer can cost between $800 and $1,200, depending on the energy source (without installation). Like everything else on this list, dryer prices can vary greatly depending on size and features.

Signs of wear and tear: Some signs it may be time to look into either fixing an existing dryer or buying a new one include excessive or unusual noises while in use, clothing coming out damp or not drying at all, or any burning smells coming from the machine.

How to make it last longer: Some helpful tips on making a dryer last longer include dividing laundry by fabric weight, keeping a dryer clean and free of debris, regularly cleaning the lint trap, and reducing heat whenever possible. Not every load needs to be dried on high heat — the fabric type should determine the setting used. Air drying is better for some fabrics and will give both the dryer and the electric bill a break.

Garbage Disposal

Typical lifespan: The average garbage disposal should last about 12 years with normal use. If a household uses their disposal more often than average, their disposal may not last quite as long.

Cost to replace: The cost to replace a garbage disposal, on average, is $550, including labor. as of mid-2025, according to Angi.

Signs of wear and tear: Signs of wear and tear on a garbage disposal include excessive noise while in use, abnormal clogging, bad odors, and power failure.

How to make it last longer: To ensure a garbage disposal lives a long and useful life, homeowners are advised to be careful about what they put down the drain. Things like coffee grinds, pasta, or other starchy foods in large quantities shouldn’t go in the garbage disposal as they can clump together causing clogs and other issues with the blade. Using cold water when running a garbage disposal can make it easier for the disposal to break up solids, especially if there is some fat on them, and can reduce the chance of a clog. Non-food items should never be put in a garbage disposal. Reading the owner’s manual that comes with the unit is recommended.

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Affording New Home Appliances

If replacement is your best option but the cost is beyond your budget, you might consider using a home improvement loan to finance the purchase of a new appliance.

A home improvement loan is essentially an unsecured personal loan that is used for home repairs or upgrades. You receive a lump sum up front which you can use to purchase and install a new appliance (or multiple new appliances); you then repay the loan over a set term, often five to seven years, with regular monthly payments. Interest rates are typically fixed.

Recommended: Guide to Unsecured Personal Loans

The Takeaway

Home appliances often last 10-15 years or even longer, but many encounter issues well before then. Deciding whether to repair or replace a home appliance can be a tricky decision and potentially an expensive one. If you decide to replace appliances, it can require careful budgeting. A personal loan could help you afford the new appliances you need.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How often should you replace home appliances?

Typically, home appliances last around 10 years, but some may fail before then and others may work well for a longer period of time. When an appliance is not functioning properly and the cost of repair is close to the cost of replacement, you may want to buy a new unit.

What is the 50-50 rule for appliances?

The 50-50 rule says that if an appliance has reached 50% of its lifespan and the cost of repairing its issue is over 50% of the price of a replacement, then it may be time to go shopping for a new unit.

When is the best time to buy a new appliance?

Typically, prices for appliances decrease in late summer and may hit their steepest lows on Black Friday, making those times the best to shop.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOPL-Q225-076

You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $9,000 for a shower remodel, according to the home improvement site Angi. The average cost in mid-2025 is $7,000, but when you think of how often you take a shower, that expense may amortize pretty quickly.

Here’s a closer look at the specific costs involved, some ways to save money on a shower remodel, plus how to get started.

The Process to Remodel a Shower

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether you’re going to hire a professional or do the remodel yourself. If you have experience with home remodeling, you could potentially save a lot of money by taking on the job, since labor can make up as much as 75% of your total remodel costs. However, if this is your first remodel, you could end up spending a lot more fixing your mistakes.

Once you determine if you’re going to hire a professional or not, you’ll need to come up with shower remodel ideas, including the color scheme, shape, shower type (full or shower-tub combo), fixtures you’re going to get, lights, fans or radios you’ll install, and any doors you’ll replace.

If you aren’t sure how to design your new shower, you can ask your contractor for help or hire a designer, but this will add to your costs.

Once you have an idea of what you want to do, your contractor will come up with a plan for your shower remodel and give you an estimate for materials and labor. You can work with them to see if there are cheaper alternatives, like shopping for materials online or choosing less expensive fixtures and finishes.

If you’re going the DIY route, you’ll have to shop around for the materials and pick them up. You’ll also need tools, such as a safety mask and goggles, tape measure, spackle knife, power drill, extension cord, hammer, and stud finder, just to name a few.

An easy way to DIY a shower remodel is to shop for a complete shower system that includes coordinating fixtures. After removing the existing shower walls, flooring, and fixtures, the new materials can be installed. You might choose an all-in-one shower surround, or a shower pan (the base) with tiled walls.

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How Much Does it Cost to Remodel a Shower?

Typically, it can cost from $2,000 to $10,100 to remodel a shower, with the average cost coming in around $7,000. Your actual costs will depend on how large the shower is, what kinds of fixtures you’re installing, and the finishes you’re using. Here’s a look at some of the factors that affect the cost of a shower remodel.

Shower Type

A walk-in shower adds a high-end look to a bathroom and is easy to get in and out of. With this option, there’s a lot of wiggle room on budget — you could spend as little as $600 or as much as $12,000 depending on the materials you choose.

You might be able to spend less if you go with a prefabricated shower, which comes with the entire shower surround and fixtures. You can find prefabricated shower inserts in a variety of styles and price points.

A tub-and-shower combination is one of the most popular choices, since they use up less space than having a separate shower and bathtub. You can also customize the look with your tile and fixture choices. On average, a tub-and-shower combo runs from $350 to several thousand dollars.

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How to Save Money on Your Shower Remodel

The costs involved in remodeling a shower can add up quickly, so budgeting wisely is important. And once you get into the project, there is always the potential for unwanted — and expensive — surprises. Fortunately, there are ways to keep costs in check while still ending up with a clean, updated look. Here are some to consider.

•  Maintaining the layout If you use the current layout, you won’t need to make changes to the plumbing and electrical. This cuts costs, as well as the chance for costly surprises.

•  Keeping the same drywall If the drywall behind your shower is in good shape, you may be able to avoid tearing it out and starting fresh. If there is some damage, your contractor may be able to simply replace those sections rather than tear the entire wall out.

•  Saving your tub If your bathtub is in decent shape, you might simply give your shower a face-lift by changing the surrounding tile and shower fixtures and reglazing the tub to match.

•  Buying a prefab shower These units can cost significantly less than a custom build and are now available in a range of designs that look luxurious and don’t scream “prefab.”

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Affording Your Shower Remodel

If you’re eager to remodel your shower but don’t have funds to cover the cost up front, you may be able to finance the project using a home improvement loan.

A home improvement loan is essentially a personal loan used to pay for home upgrades and renovations. These loans are available through banks, online lenders, and credit unions, and are typically unsecured (meaning you don’t have to provide collateral). Once approved, you receive a lump sum of cash up front you can then use to cover the cost of remodeling your shower. You repay the loan (plus interest) in regular installments over the term of the loan, which typically runs up to seven years.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How much should it cost to renovate a shower?

The average cost of renovating a shower as of mid-2025 is $7,000, but there’s a wide range of prices depending on the specifics. It could be between $2,000 and $9,000.

Can you remodel a bathroom for $5,000?

It is possible to remodel a bathroom for $5,000, but you will likely be working on mainly cosmetic changes vs. buying new fixtures, choosing top-of-the-line options, and moving plumbing lines.

How much does it cost for a new walk-in shower?

As of mid-2025, a basic prefabricated walk-in shower cost an average of $1,850, including installation. A custom-built shower, however, could cost an average of $8,000.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOPL-Q225-078

Replacing your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system costs $7,500 on average in mid-2025, according to the home improvement site Angi. Prices will vary with such factors as home size, type of unit, and local climate.

Here, take a closer look at what’s involved in replacing your property’s HVAC system and how much it’s likely to cost.

HVAC System Parts

There are several ways to heat and cool a home that falls under the HVAC umbrella. Yet, most HVAC system parts and components can be grouped into the following categories.

Thermostat

Thermostats monitor temperature and can be used to adjust whether a HVAC system heats or cools a building. Generally, the temperature can be set manually or preset to regulate heating and cooling to a desired indoor temperature.

These systems can be connected to the HVAC system through wiring — or wifi in the case of smart thermostats. More advanced thermostats can be used to enhance comfort and efficiency by controlling temperature settings for multiple zones throughout a home or building.

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Heating and Cooling Unit

The heating and cooling unit is the main component of any HVAC system. Common types include furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and air conditioners.

Furnaces are generally located inside a structure and comprise a heating element powered by gas, oil, or electricity and a blower to circulate heated air through the building.

Boilers are traditionally interior units, too, but circulate hot water or steam to radiators or baseboards located throughout the property.

Air conditioners include condenser units, which are located outside because they produce hot air through the heat transfer process. Another key component is the compressor, which pressurizes and circulates the refrigerant.

Heat pumps also consist of an external condenser, but a key difference is that they can be used to either heat or cool a home. These systems work in conjunction with an indoor blower unit to distribute heated or cooled air.

Filtration

HVAC systems incorporate air filters to remove dust, allergens, and other particles from entering the return-air duct. Usually, air is drawn from multiple locations inside a building to the HVAC system.

Whether filters are the reusable or disposable variety, periodic cleaning or replacement is necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Ultraviolet lights are another option for treating air quality in an HVAC system. Their ability to disinfect the air of mold and pathogens makes them helpful for some homeowners with severe allergies.

Delivery System

Most buildings and homes consist of multiple rooms and may include more than one floor. Distributing heated and cooled air throughout the space requires a system of ductwork and vents.

Many HVAC systems utilize separate supply and return ducts to circulate, filter, and treat air continuously. Supply ducts bring air from the heating and cooling unit to blowers and vents to heat or cool an area.

Meanwhile, return ducts transport untreated air back to the HVAC system.

Exhaust Outlet

Any HVAC system that involves combustion — burning oil, gas, or wood — will need an exhaust outlet to expel harmful fumes out of the building. An exhaust outlet can be its own vent or be connected to an existing chimney.


💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders can release funds as quickly as the same day your loan is approved. SoFi personal loans offer same-day funding for qualified borrowers.

HVAC System Cost Estimates

The type of unit chosen for replacement is a key determinant of cost. Prices may fluctuate whether a full or partial replacement is needed and based on technological advances in HVAC efficiency.

Cost estimates below account for the HVAC unit, any system parts, installation, and removal of old equipment.

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Boilers

Boilers have been used to heat buildings for more than a century and are found in homes and commercial buildings alike. The average replacement cost can range between $3,600 and $8,500 depending on the type of boiler. The average cost to replace a boiler is $5,908 as of mid-2025, according to Angi.

HVAC replacement cost for boilers can be higher if fuel tanks, piping, and gas hookup need to be repaired or installed.

Heat Pumps

Despite their name, heat pumps actually can be used to both heat and cool a building. These electric HVAC systems pull heat from outdoor air to heat a building even during cold weather conditions. When it’s warm out, heat pumps cool buildings by drawing heat from indoor air and expelling it outside.

Depending on the type of heat pump and size of the system (measured in tons), costs average between $8,000 and $15,000.

Air-source heat pumps typically run on the cheaper end of the heat pump spectrum, whereas ground source heat pumps (often called geothermal heat pumps) can cost between $4,500 and $26,600.

Although the upfront cost is significant, lower utility bills could make a heat pump a wise investment in the long-run.

Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioners work by drawing moisture from the air inside a building and returning cooled air throughout the structure via ductwork. The system usually consists of one unit located outside but near the structure.

The average cost for installing central air is between $3,906 and $8,021, with an average of $5,959, according to Angi, as of mid-2025. Prices may be lower for 2-ton or smaller systems, while costs can creep higher if a building requires a 5-ton unit.

Besides the unit itself, the total footage of ductwork to be installed or replaced is a significant cost consideration.

Furnaces

The cost to buy and install a furnace can vary by energy type, total ductwork needed, and the model. On average, prices for replacing a furnace range from $2,800 to $6,800.

Furnaces that run on natural gas or electricity tend to be cheaper to replace than oil-fueled systems.

The total area that will be heated and how well a building is insulated are other factors that will affect the size of the system and potentially increase the cost.

Other HVAC Replacement Cost Factors

When evaluating HVAC options, the type of system is only part of the equation for determining the final price tag. There are many other factors that can affect how much an HVAC replacement will cost.

Local Climate

The popular real estate mantra, “location, location, location,” rings true for HVAC systems, too. Whether you live in a cold, warm, or temperate climate will have implications for how an HVAC system is designed.

Property owners in warmer climates could face higher prices for replacing air conditioning units since greater capacity is needed. Meanwhile, costs for furnaces can be higher in more frigid regions where heating efficiency is more important.

Building Characteristics

The size, layout, and condition of a building can play a role in HVAC replacement cost.

Excluding geographic influences, larger structures generally require a more substantial HVAC system to match. The total square footage can impact the price for filtration, ductwork, vents, and zones throughout a building.

A home’s design could also affect how much you’ll pay for HVAC installation. More difficult jobs can add additional labor hours and drive up the cost.

Some possible complications to consider are the ease of accessing components ductwork and whether building renovations will be needed to accommodate new HVAC equipment.

Unit Efficiency

The operational efficiency of a new system is another factor of HVAC replacement cost. Although more efficient units are generally more expensive upfront, they can recoup long-term savings through lower energy bills.

While browsing models, keep an eye out for an ENERGY STAR® label to identify the highest-performing HVAC systems. To become certified, this equipment has been vetted by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.

For instance, air conditioner models that achieve efficiency scores in the top 25% among competitors are eligible for ENERGY STAR® certification.

Paying for HVAC Replacement

The upfront cost of paying for HVAC replacement can be steep. If covering expenses with cash and savings alone isn’t feasible, there may be other ways to finance this kind of project. For example, you could look into a home equity loan or line of credit, both of which tap the equity you have in your home. These options require using your home as collateral, however, which not all homeowners will be comfortable with.

Another option is a home improvement loan, which is a kind of personal loan. With this type of unsecured loan (in other words, no collateral needed), you get a lump sum of cash, which you pay back in installments with interest. The loan term is usually between one or two years and seven years, and the interest rate for a personal loan is typically lower than what you’d pay with a credit card.

One other consideration: The HVAC unit cost for more environmentally friendly technologies, such as ground- and air-source heat pumps, may be eligible for rebates and tax incentives.

Recommended: Home Improvement Cost Calculator

The Takeaway

Replacing your home’s HVAC system costs, on average, $7,500 as of mid-2025. The exact price tag will depend on the unit you choose, the size of your home, your location, the complexity of installation, and other factors.

If replacement is necessary for your HVAC system, you may still have a sizable sum to pay after claiming amu tax credits or manufacturers’ rebates you might qualify for. Financing options include secured funding that draws on your home’s equity or an unsecured home improvement loan.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How much does it cost to replace an entire HVAC system?

Currently, the average cost to replace an HVAC system is $7,500 on average. Prices will vary depending on the kind and size of unit you purchase, your location, installation challenges, and other factors.

How often do HVAC systems have to be replaced?

Typically, an HVAC system lasts 10-20 years, though the details can vary depending on your particular situation.

What is the most expensive part of an HVAC system?

The most expensive part of your home’s HVAC system is often the compressor, which compresses the refrigerant and plays a key role in the cooling process.

Photo credit: iStock/South_agency

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Do you have kitchen envy, daydreaming about Shaker cabinets, farmhouse sinks, or sleek marble countertops? Join the club: Kitchen remodeling is one of the most popular kinds of home renovation projects, with the typical “small” kitchen redo costing upwards of $15,250 in mid-2025, according to the home improvement site Angi. These kinds of upgrades can be worthwhile, with up to 96% of the cost being recouped when the home is sold.

Perhaps you’re planning a kitchen refresh. If so, consider the three broad categories of styles below: traditional, contemporary, and transitional. Then learn tips for financing your renovation.

Traditional Kitchen Style

Even when other styles rise in popularity, the traditional kitchen continues to hold its own, remaining among the most popular. At the core of traditional kitchens is a time-honored approach to design that refers to the styles of the past.

Among the signature touches:

•   Raised-panel or glass-front cabinets

•   Warm wood tones

•   An earthy, rustic color palette

•   Classic sinks, faucets, and knobs, such as a farmhouse style in porcelain or marble

•   Molding, whether at ceiling, along the top of cabinetry, or elsewhere

•   Country or European touches often find a place in traditional kitchens, whether that means floral backsplash tiles or lace curtains.

Contemporary Kitchen Style

At the other end of the design spectrum is contemporary kitchen style. Just as the name suggests, these spaces tend to be clean-lined and sleek. Among the typical features are:

•   Cabinets are often slab-style (meaning without knobs) or otherwise minimalist.

•   Typically, these kitchens use sleek materials, whether wood, steel, or lacquer.

•   Color schemes tend to be neutral, from all white and futuristic to grays and beiges to moody black. However, some people like to mix in pops of color.

•   Appliances are typically disguised as cabinetry (you may hear this called paneled appliances) to keep the clean-lined look going.

•   Decorative accessories are discouraged. If you like showing off your teapot collection, this look probably isn’t for you.

Recommended: Cost to Repair a Plumbing Leak

Transitional Kitchen Style

If you find that you appreciate some elements of traditional style and some of contemporary, then a transitional style kitchen may be just right for you. This style combines elements of both styles in a unique way.

For example:

•   Transitional kitchens might include classic, simple Shaker-style cabinets but in bold shade, like teal, which makes them look more modern.

•   Countertops are often quartz or quartzite, which can have the warmth of natural tones but sleek edges.

•   Appliances are often built-in or stainless steel.

•   Pendant lighting, with its clean lines, is a signature of the transitional style.

•   Wood plank flooring, with its traditional warmth, is often incorporated in these kitchens.

•   If you think you’ll be selling your home, then going transitional can be a safe bet to make your home appealing to a broad swath of potential buyers.

Kitchen Style Quiz

Now that you have a basic grounding in these three looks, take the kitchen style quiz.

Now that you have insight onto the kitchen look you gravitate towards, learn more about what remodeling involves.

Remodeling Your Kitchen

A kitchen remodel can be a good way to boost the value of your home, with possibilities ranging from fairly inexpensive — new paint, new faucets, and new cabinet pulls, for example — to a full-scale remodel that could cost you more than $100,000. A few smart strategies:

•   When remodeling, it makes sense to prioritize your spending in a way that creates a kitchen that works well for your lifestyle.

For example, if you and your partner love to cook gourmet meals and experiment with new recipes, it makes sense to allocate your budget to be a true chef’s kitchen, perhaps with a commercial-style range. If, on the other hand, you’re envisioning a kitchen where all the neighborhood kids will gather for pizza and homework, consider that in your design and perhaps budget for a cushy, built-in banquette.

•   It can also be wise to create a budget and keep an eye on which options can wind up being very pricey maneuvers. The cost of rewiring and moving plumbing lines, for instance, can be quite steep. Have a couple of well-recommended tradespeople pitch your job (don’t skimp on checking references) before picking one.

•   Build in contingencies for your project to go over budget and past the deadline. It happens, and being prepared for that kind of wiggle room can help you avoid a lot of stress. For instance, inflation’s impact on kitchen remodeling can be significant so it’s wise to plan ahead on that front when making your budget.

•   Also stay aware of what changes require a permit (you may be surprised at how often one is needed) and prepare for how that will impact your timeline.

Financing Your Remodel

Once you’ve decided how you want to update your kitchen and have considered the average cost of a kitchen remodel, then one of the next considerations is how to pay for it. If you need to finance the project, you may have such options as:

•   You could do a cash-out refinance if you have equity in your home. This involves refinancing your current mortgage for its remaining balance plus the amount needed to do your remodel.

•   A home equity line of credit might also make sense if you have equity. This involves using your home as collateral and opening a line of credit (like a credit card) to tap as work is done on your kitchen. You then repay the debt over time.

•   Another secured option is a home equity loan, which gives you a set amount of money to use towards your renovation.

•   It can make sense to consider an unsecured home improvement loan to help you get the remodel done, too.

Because this is a kind of personal loan, this means you don’t need to have home equity nor put your home on the line as collateral. You will typically get a lump sum of cash, repayable with interest over a term of one to seven years, at an interest rate that’s usually less than that of a credit card.

Like all loan products, there are pros and cons to personal loans. What matters most when financing your kitchen remodel is finding the option that suits your financial and personal needs best.

Recommended: Can I Pay Off a Personal Loan Early?

The Takeaway

Finding which style of kitchen suits you best can be a fun and valuable process. Not only does it help you pinpoint and then bring your favorite look to life, it can be the first step in creating your dream kitchen. Then, you can move on to the design and financing of your kitchen renovation. Options for funding include using savings, tapping home equity, or taking out a home improvement loan.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

FAQ

How can I finance a kitchen remodel?

You likely have options for financing a kitchen remodel, including using savings, tapping home equity, or taking out a personal loan, also sometimes called a home improvement loan.

How much does a small kitchen remodel cost?

As of mid-2025, a small kitchen remodel costs $15,250, according to the home improvement site Angi.

What are some popular kitchen styles?

Popular kitchen styles include traditional, contemporary, and transitional. You also might have a more specific look you’re aiming for, such as French country, mid-century, or Southwestern style.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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