Portland is a moderate-high cost-of-living market — pricing guide and permit rules below.
Portland hvac rates: $3,000-$10,000 per system. Always get 3 written quotes and verify ME licensing at Maine PFR (maine.gov/pfr). Sales tax on materials: 5.5%.
Portland requires permits when work exceeds $3,000 or involves full system replacement. Your licensed contractor pulls the permit — if they ask you to pull it, that's a red flag.