Buyers typically pay a total installed price for a 5 ton roof top unit (RTU) that ranges from around $7,000 to $14,000, with higher-end models and complex installs climbing toward $15,000. Main cost drivers include equipment quality, installation complexity, ductwork changes, and local permitting. This article outlines typical pricing, components, and ways to control the budget for a 5 ton RTU project.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTU Equipment (5 ton) | $3,500 | $5,000 | $6,500 | New, mid-range efficiency |
| Installation & Labor | $2,000 | $3,500 | $5,000 | Rooftop app, wiring, controls |
| Permits & Fees | $100 | $300 | $500 | Local compliance costs |
| Ductwork & Modifications | $600 | $1,800 | $3,000 | Air handler return/duct runs |
| Electrical & Controls | $400 | $1,200 | $2,000 | New wiring, thermostat/ economizer |
| Total Installed Cost | ~$7,000 | ~$12,000 | ~$15,000 | Assumes mid-market system |
Assumptions: region, system efficiency, existing ductwork, and labor availability.
Typical Cost Range
For a 5 ton RTU, installed price commonly falls in the $7,000 to $14,000 range, with most projects landing between $9,000 and $12,000 for mid-range equipment and straightforward roof installations. Low-cost scenarios cover older or simpler units; high-end setups include premium efficiency, advanced controls, or challenging rooftop retrofits. Per‑ton pricing typically runs $1,200–$2,000, depending on efficiency, brand, and required accessories.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $3,500 | $5,000 | $6,500 | RTU cabinet, coils, filters |
| Labor | $2,000 | $3,500 | $5,000 | Rooftop mounting, connections |
| Equipment | $0 | $0 | $0 | Included in materials |
| Permits | $100 | $300 | $500 | Local building/mechanical permit |
| Delivery/Disposal | $50 | $200 | $400 | Crates, packaging, old equipment disposal |
| Warranty & Maintenance | $0 | $0–$200 | $500 | One-year vs extended |
Pricing Variables
Key drivers include system efficiency (SEER rating) and tonnage; a 5 ton unit can vary by SEER 14–SEER 16, and by whether the installation requires duct remodeling. Higher efficiency models cost more upfront but may save on energy bills. Complex roof work, long electrical runs, or need for a new economizer can push the total higher. Time of year and local labor markets also influence rates.
Ways To Save
Compare multiple bids and ask for a detailed line-item estimate. Consider standard efficiency models with common feature sets first, and bundle permits with installation when possible. Reuse existing ductwork if feasible, and plan for off-peak scheduling to reduce labor costs. If replacements are near a large event or season, early scheduling can avoid surge pricing.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor costs, permitting, and material supply. In the Northeast, total installed costs often trend higher due to stricter codes and higher wage scales. The Midwest generally sees moderate prices, while the South can be lower on labor but higher in insulation needs for certain climates. Expect +/- 10–20% deltas between urban, suburban, and rural locations.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours commonly range 6–18 hours for a standard 5 ton RTU swap. A straightforward rooftop replacement with minimal ductwork may finish near the lower end, while complex duct reconfigurations or ladder/roof access challenges push to the upper end. A common hourly rate falls around $80–$150 per hour depending on market.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Assumptions: mid-range equipment, standard rooftop mounting, no extensive duct redesign.
Basic Scenario: 5 ton RTU with standard efficiency, simple ducting, no economizer. Labor: 6–8 hours; Total: $7,500–$9,000;
Mid-Range Scenario: 5 ton RTU with SEER 15–SEER 16, moderate ductwork, smart thermostat. Labor: 8–12 hours; Total: $9,500–$12,000;
Premium Scenario: 5 ton RTU with premium efficiency (SEER 17+), extensive duct modifications, integrated controls. Labor: 12–18 hours; Total: $12,500–$15,000.
Permits, Codes & Rebates
Permit costs and mechanical code compliance can add $100–$500. Some regions offer rebates or utility incentives for high-efficiency RTUs or heat recovery features, which may reduce net cost. Eligibility depends on local programs and unit specifications.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Annual maintenance typically runs a few hundred dollars. Expect filter replacements, coil cleaning, and inspection to maintain efficiency. A five-year cost outlook should include potential compressor or fan motor replacements if failure occurs, which can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on parts and labor.