Thermostat installation cost
Professional thermostat installation costs $140 to $350, about $229 on average. A smart thermostat such as a Nest or Ecobee costs $200 to $450 installed. Labor alone is $65 to $200.
Quick answer
$140 – $350installed
Most thermostat installs cost $140 to $350. A basic manual thermostat starts near $80 installed; smart Wi-Fi models reach about $450.
Cost by type
| Type | Thermostat | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual / mechanical | $15 – $40 | $65 – $150 | $80 – $190 |
| Non-programmable digital | $20 – $50 | $80 – $150 | $100 – $200 |
| Programmable | $80 – $140 | $80 – $200 | $160 – $340 |
| Wi-Fi | $70 – $200 | $100 – $200 | $170 – $400 |
| Smart (learning) | $100 – $250 | $100 – $200 | $200 – $450 |
Smart thermostat prices
| Brand | Unit | Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Google Nest | $150 – $249 | $250 – $450 |
| Ecobee | $170 – $240 | $270 – $440 |
| Honeywell | $99 – $229 | $200 – $430 |
| Emerson Sensi | $95 – $128 | $200 – $330 |
Most smart thermostats need a common wire (C-wire). If yours doesn't have one, an adapter or new wire run adds cost.
Extra costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Move thermostat 10 feet | $135 – $250 |
| Move thermostat 30 feet | $255 – $450 |
| Wiring repair / new wire | $6 – $10 per foot |
| Drywall patch | $75 – $150 |
Will a new thermostat save money?
The Department of Energy estimates you can save up to about 10% a year on heating and cooling by setting the thermostat back 7 to 10°F for 8 hours a day. Smart and programmable thermostats make that automatic. Heat pumps and multi-stage systems need thermostats that support them.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install a thermostat?
About $140 to $350 with professional installation, or $200 to $450 for a smart thermostat.
Can I install a smart thermostat myself?
Often, yes, if your system has a C-wire and you're comfortable with low-voltage wiring. Heat pumps and multi-stage systems are trickier.
How long does thermostat installation take?
About 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on wiring.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.