For a 2,000 square foot commercial space in Los Angeles, a new HVAC system typically lands between $12,000 and $25,000 installed. At that size, most buildings use a single 5-ton rooftop package unit or a light-commercial split system, straightforward equipment that keeps costs on the lower end. More complex setups push the price up: a VRF system with several indoor heads, heavy zoning, or a high-efficiency variable-speed unit can run $25,000 to $40,000.
The biggest swing factors are tonnage (load calculation, not square-foot rules of thumb), rooftop access and crane requirements, ductwork condition, and efficiency tier (SEER2 and IEER). Title 24 compliance, permits, and any electrical upgrades also factor in. We quote commercial replacements with a Manual N load calc so the system is sized to the actual building, not the square footage on a lease.
