A new residential AC system in Palm Beach County will run you somewhere between $6,500 and $14,000 fully installed in 2026, with most homeowners landing in the $8,000–$11,000 range.

Single stage 15.2 SEER2 systems the new federal minimum sit at the low end. Two stage 16 SEER2 systems are the sweet spot for Florida humidity control. Variable speed inverter systems at 18+ SEER2 cost more upfront but pay back in lower electric bills and dramatically better humidity control.

Ductwork matters. If your ducts are 20+ years old, leaky, or undersized, no amount of new equipment will perform properly. Budget another $3,000–$8,000 if duct replacement is needed.