A thermostat regulates the temperature in your home, so this little gizmo will largely determine your comfort and also allow you to regulate your monthly energy costs. The cost to replace a thermostat ranges from $80 to $440, including material and labor.
Replacing a non-programmable thermostat with a Wi-Fi-enabled model will cost more, but it can help reduce energy costs by better controlling your home’s temperature when you’re away. Non-programmable thermostats are more affordable but come with only basic features.
The costs in this pricing guide are based on the averages from our nationwide survey and analysis on thermostat replacement costs. The price you pay will vary based on different factors.
Cost by Location
The cost to replace a thermostat can be influenced by location. In big metropolitan areas, the labor cost for installation is usually more expensive than in smaller towns due to overall higher living costs. Additionally, some locations can have increased labor charges due to high demand.
The table below shows the average cost to replace a thermostat in different locations across the country, including small and large cities:
| Location | Average Cost Per Thermostat (Including Labor and Materials) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $80 – $450 |
| New York, NY | $110 – $600 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $60 – $350 |
| Atlanta, GA | $65 – $365 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $80 – $450 |
| Chicago, IL | $90 – $475 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $75 – $405 |
| Seattle, WA | $80 – $445 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Roswell, NM | $65 – $385 |
| San Diego, CA | $85 – $470 |
Cost by Thermostat Type
The cost of replacing your thermostat will depend on the type you choose. If you’re looking to save money on your energy bills, upgrading to a digital thermostat is an easy way to do it.
A manual thermostat (also known as an analog thermostat) is an affordable option. Digital thermostats are more expensive than analog ones but have more features. There are two types of digital thermostats, programmable and non-programmable, with the programmable ones being more expensive.
From basic models to more advanced smart thermostats, here’s a general cost breakdown according to each type:
| Type | Average Cost (Thermostat Only) |
| Manual | $15 – $35 |
| Non-Programmable | $20 – $50 |
| Programmable | $30 – $150 |
| WiFi | $85 – $275 |
| Smart | $130 – $355 |
Manual Thermostat
Manual thermostats are pretty straightforward to install but aren’t too accurate or efficient, so they’re particularly suited for areas that don’t need precise temperature control. You will have to set your desired temperature with the simple twist of a dial or knob, and your HVAC system will do its job. If you don’t monitor the temperature, you could spend more money than necessary on energy bills.
Non-Programmable Thermostat
If you’re looking for a simple digital model, non-programmable digital thermostats are a good choice. They are more affordable and feature basic functions, including temperature control and a digital display. Before installing a digital thermostat, ensure it’s compatible with your system. Consult your HVAC technician for more information.
Programmable Thermostat
Programmable models let you set temperatures without adjusting things manually every time. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a programmable unit can help you save up to 10% on your energy costs, so it’s well worth the investment. You can create custom programs, like setting different schedules for weekdays and weekends to match your routine.
Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat is a pricier option for heating and cooling your home, but it has many unique features to keep your house always comfortable. From voice control to energy-saving modes, you can keep a close eye on your HVAC system even when you’re not around.
Wi-Fi Thermostats
A Wi-Fi thermostat might be the way for those looking for something between smart thermostats and more basic models. With a Wi-Fi thermostat, you’ll still control your HVAC system from anywhere, track your energy usage, and more. However, a few features, like voice control, are not available with basic Wi-Fi models, so make sure you know what features you’re getting for the price.
Labor Costs
On average, professional contractors charge between $65 and $145 to replace a thermostat.. However, this price can be higher depending on the job’s complexity. If you have an existing thermostat, the installation should go quickly and smoothly, but the cost may be higher if your home has old or no wiring.
It can take up to three hours for a technician to install the thermostat. If the pro charges by the hour, you can expect to pay between $55 and $105 per hour for an HVAC professional. If you are getting it replaced by an electrician, make sure they know how to install your particular thermostat.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
If you have already replaced a thermostat, it should be a straightforward DIY project and will not cost you anything for tools and materials.
However, installing a thermostat can involve wiring and electrical work, so it’s typically best to leave it to a professional. Additionally, DIY attempts at a thermostat installation without proper experience and training could damage the thermostat and may void its warranty.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
If you’re budgeting for a new thermostat, there are a few things to consider that might change the price tag. Here’s a breakdown of some common cost factors:
Cost by Home Device Type
When it comes to thermostats, complex HVAC units such as boilers and water heaters may require a more costly model that can regulate the boiling water accurately. On the other hand, an AC unit thermostat may be more basic and, therefore, less expensive.
Generally, a boiler thermostat costs between $280 and $480 in total, while an air conditioning thermostat costs between $120 and $200 to install.
New Wire Installation
If you don’t already have wiring or need to upgrade it, it can add an extra $90 to $135 on top of the thermostat installation fee. Some types of thermostats require a dedicated ‘C-wire’ to work properly. These wires usually need to be run through the walls and connected directly to the breaker box. This process can take up to an extra hour, so factor this into the installation cost.
Number of Units
The number of thermostat units that need to be installed affects the total cost. If your home has multiple zones or requires more than one thermostat, you need to pay for additional units. If you decide to purchase multiple units, you may be eligible for a discount from the manufacturer or installer.
Accessories
In addition to the basic thermostat, you may need extra accessories depending on your setup. The following are some of the most common accessories and their corresponding cost ranges:
| Product | Typical Price Range (Materials Only) |
| Wall Plate | $4 – $11 |
| Thermostat Cover | $10 – $25 |
| Alexa Hub | $50 – $250 |
| Google Nest Hub | $110 – $240 |
Find an HVAC Pro Near You
Replacing an old thermostat with a new model can be a great way to upgrade your home while also saving on energy costs. Depending on the model, you may also enjoy enhanced features such as remote access or vocal control. Whether you are looking for a basic model or a more advanced option, it’s always best to hire a professional.
Luckily, Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled HVAC technicians or electrical services and leave the rest to us.
Rahul Sattineni contributed to this article.
Read More:
- How Much Does HVAC Repair Cost?
- How Much Does an AC Unit Cost?
- How Much Does HVAC Installation Cost?
- How Much Does HVAC Maintenance Cost?
Main Image: Adjusting temperature on thermostat. Image Credit: Jordan / Adobe Stock
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