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What does a new water heater cost? Most people pay $882 to $1,826 installed.
Real ranges from published 2025-2026 cost data, with the sources listed, so you know the number before anybody shows up with a clipboard.
The short answer
Angi puts water heater replacement at $882 to $1,826, with $1,348 as the average. A tank unit runs $600 to $2,500 and tankless runs $1,400 to $3,900 (Angi, July 2026). These are national numbers. I couldn't verify a Middle Tennessee-specific figure, so call a local plumber for a real quote.
The numbers
| Overall, national (Angi, 2026) | $882 to $1,826, average $1,348 |
| Tank water heater (Angi) | $600 to $2,500 |
| Tankless (Angi) | $1,400 to $3,900 |
What makes the price go up or down
- Tank size in gallons.
- Fuel type: electric, gas, propane, hybrid or solar.
- Brand.
- Venting: direct vent vs. power vent.
- Labor. Plumbers run $45 to $200 an hour (Angi).
- Permits, $25 to $300, plus any new gas, electric or water lines (Angi).
Before you sign anything
- Get at least two written quotes that list the same items.
- Ask what's included: permits, haul-away, cleanup and warranty.
- Ask who does the work, their crew or a sub.
- Don't pay the full amount up front.
Why I'm telling you this
I learned the trades hands-on and ran my own construction company in Colorado. I've watched other contractors do to homeowners exactly what this page teaches you to stop. Not knowing is where the upsell lives. Now you know.
Quick answers
How long does a water heater last?
Tank units 8 to 12 years; tankless can go 20 or more (Angi).
Can a water heater freeze?
Yes, though it's uncommon. It's more likely with outdoor installs, and freezing can wreck it inside (Angi).
Sources
Educational only. Prices are published ranges as of October 2026. Your real price depends on your house, so get written quotes. Built by a Gen Xer with AI, for Gen Xers.
More free help
Fix it yourself, or know what to pay.
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