Austin is a moderate-high cost-of-living market — pricing guide and permit rules below.
Austin hvac rates: $3,000-$10,000 per system. Always get 3 written quotes and verify TX licensing at Texas TDLR (tdlr.texas.gov). Sales tax on materials: 8.25%.
Austin requires permits when work exceeds $500 or involves full system replacement. Your licensed contractor pulls the permit — if they ask you to pull it, that's a red flag.