How Much Do Solar Panels Cost to Install?
Updated 27 March 2026
Calculate your exact solar installation cost based on your electric bill, state, and panel type. See your payback period and 25-year savings.
Solar Panel Cost Calculator
System Size
6.4 kW
Installed Cost
$16,116
Payback Period
10.5 yrs
Cost Breakdown
| Installed solar cost | $16,116 |
| Total out of pocket | $16,116 |
Savings & ROI
| Annual electricity savings | $1,530/year |
| Payback period | 10.5 years |
| 25-year net savings | $22,134 |
| State incentives | No state incentive |
The 30% federal solar credit ended 31 December 2025
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act terminated the Section 25D residential clean energy credit for systems placed in service after 31 December 2025. A home solar system purchased in 2026 gets no federal tax credit, so the figures above are the full installed cost. Only systems fully installed by 31 December 2025 could claim the 30% credit (and carry forward any unused amount). State rebates, SRECs, and net metering still apply where offered.
Average Solar Panel Costs by System Size
| System Size | Installed Cost | Powers |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $10,000-12,800 | Small home, 1-2 people |
| 6 kW | $15,000-19,200 | Average home, 2-3 people |
| 8 kW | $20,000-25,600 | Larger home, 3-4 people |
| 10 kW | $25,000-32,000 | Large home or EV charging |
| 12 kW | $30,000-38,400 | Large home + battery + EV |
Average US installation: $15,000-20,000 installed
The average American home needs a 6-8 kW system. At $2.50/watt (national average), that's $15,000-20,000 installed. The 30% federal solar credit ended for systems placed in service after 31 December 2025, so a 2026 purchase pays the full amount. Get at least 3 quotes - prices vary 20-40% between installers.