Cost to Furnace Replacement in Denver, CO (2026)
If you’re budgeting a furnace replacement in Denver, most projects run $2,726-$8,179, 9% above the $4,500 national average. What moves that number most is usually one thing: Furnace Efficiency (AFUE Rating). On its own it can swing the cost by $800 - $3,000, so that’s the decision to slow down on before you sweat the smaller stuff.
Easiest place to save: Get quotes in spring or early fall when HVAC companies are less busy - many offer 10-20% off-season discounts
In the Mountain West (where Denver sits): Altitude affects combustion ratings - units may need high-altitude kits adding $100-$300.
$2,726-$8,179 in Denver
9% above the national average · 1.09x cost multiplier
Expect to pay $2,726-$8,179 for a furnace replacement in Denver, about 9% above the national benchmark. The Mountain West region's contractor market and material costs account for most of this difference. The detailed breakdown below shows how budget, mid-range, and premium projects compare at Denver prices.
Cost Breakdown in Denver
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per sq ft of home | $2 | $3 | $5 |
| Materials | $1,484 | $2,332 | $4,240 |
| Labor | $1,376 | $1,950 | $2,638 |
| Permits | $212 | $318 | $424 |
| Total | $3,072+10% vs. national avg | $4,918+9% vs. national avg | $8,150+9% vs. national avg |
Budget
80% AFUE single-stage gas furnace, basic brand (Goodman or Amana), direct replacement with existing ductwork and venting
Mid-Range
90-95% AFUE two-stage gas furnace, mid-tier brand (Rheem, Trane, or Carrier), standard installation with smart thermostat
Premium
97-98% AFUE modulating variable-speed gas furnace, premium brand (Lennox or American Standard), with zoning controls and whole-house humidifier
Material Options
Material prices below are national averages; availability in Denver may shift costs slightly.
| Material | Cost/Unit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Stage Gas Furnace (80% AFUE) | $2,000 - $3,500 installed | Mild climates, budget-focused homeowners, homes with high ceilings or poor insulation where efficiency gains are minimalLowest upfront cost, simple and reliable, fewer parts to fail |
| Two-Stage Gas Furnace (90-96% AFUE) | $3,500 - $5,500 installed | Most homeowners in cold climates, the sweet spot of cost vs. performanceGood balance of cost and efficiency, quieter on low stage, more even temperatures |
| Modulating Gas Furnace (97-98% AFUE) | $5,500 - $8,500 installed | Cold climates with high heating bills, homeowners planning to stay 10+ yearsLowest operating costs, whisper-quiet, ultra-even heating, best humidity control |
| Oil Furnace (83-87% AFUE) | $3,000 - $6,000 installed | Rural areas without natural gas service, Northeast homes with existing oil infrastructureProduces very hot air, works in areas without natural gas |
| Electric Furnace | $1,500 - $3,500 installed | Mild climates with low heating needs, areas with very cheap electricity, supplemental heatingLowest upfront cost, no combustion or venting, 100% efficient at point of use |
Other Projects in Denver
Denver Estimate
Typical Range
$2,726-$8,179
vs. National Average
9% above national
Cost Multiplier
1.09x
Cost Per sq ft of home
$2-$5
This 1.09x estimate prices Denver labor from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025) and applies a lighter regional adjustment to materials and permits, which vary less by metro than labor does. Actual bids vary by contractor, project scope, and timing.
See national average costs →