How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost?
Replacing a water heater, priced by tank size, fuel type and whether you upgrade to tankless.
How much does water heater replacement cost?
Replacing a water heater, priced by tank size, fuel type and whether you upgrade to tankless. Most homeowners pay between $1,000 and $3,500 nationally, with a typical cost around $1,800. Use our calculator to adjust this range for your ZIP code.
What affects the price
- Tank size (gallons)
- Gas vs. electric vs. tankless
- Code upgrades & permits
Repair vs. replacement
Replace when leaking or beyond ~10 years.
Questions to ask your contractor
- What size do I need?
- Is tankless worth it for me?
When to call a professional
Yes — gas, venting and permits are involved.
How we calculate this estimate
We start from national labor and materials benchmarks and apply a local cost factor based on your ZIP code and metro area, plus job complexity. Estimates are informational; actual contractor pricing may vary. Last reviewed 2026-05-01.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost of water heater replacement?
Nationally, water heater replacement typically runs around $1,800, with most jobs between $1,000 and $3,500. Your local price is adjusted by ZIP code.
Should I repair or replace?
Replace when leaking or beyond ~10 years.
When should I call a professional?
Yes — gas, venting and permits are involved.