Cost to Install Solar Panels
The average cost to install solar panels is $27,129, with most homeowners paying between $18,297 and $36,409 before incentives, depending on system size. Note: the 30% federal tax credit that used to apply to purchased systems expired for installations after December 31, 2025 — see the FAQ below.
What's included in the cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Solar panels (materials) | $0.70–$1.50 per watt |
| Installation (labor, mounting, electrical) | $2.50–$3.50 per watt |
| Permits & inspections | ~$450 |
Source: HomeAdvisor (updated June 19, 2026).
Cost by system size
| System size | Typical installed cost |
|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,500–$17,500 |
| 8 kW | $17,600–$28,000 |
| 10 kW | $25,000–$35,000 |
| 12 kW | $30,000–$42,000 |
Source: HomeAdvisor (updated June 19, 2026). Shown before incentives.
What affects the cost
- System size. As shown above, this is the single biggest driver — a 5 kW system and a 12 kW system are priced roughly $18,000 apart, per HomeAdvisor.
- Roof condition. If your roof needs repairs before panels go on, HomeAdvisor prices that separately at $150–$7,000, which can move the total more than the panels themselves in an older home.
- Permits, inspections, and interconnection. HomeAdvisor prices permits and inspections at an average of $450, and every grid-tied system also needs inverters, a disconnect switch, and a net metering agreement with your utility before it can go live.
- Long-term maintenance. Beyond installation, HomeAdvisor prices inverter replacement at $1,000–$3,000 over the system's life, plus the annual cleaning and inspection costs covered below — worth factoring into the real cost of ownership, not just the install.
Hiring a professional and getting quotes
HomeAdvisor's core advice is to collect quotes from at least three local solar installers and compare them "apples to apples" — digging into each proposal's equipment list and workmanship details, not just the bottom-line price. A qualified installer also works with you to fine-tune system size, panel layout, and mounting so you're not paying for more wattage than your home actually needs.
Professional installation matters here for more than just cost: HomeAdvisor notes that correct wiring protects your home's electrical system and its resale value, and the interconnection agreement with your utility (needed for net metering) typically has to be handled by a licensed installer as part of the permitting process, not something a homeowner arranges independently.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install solar panels on average?
The national average cost to install solar panels is $27,129, with a typical range of $18,297 to $36,409 before any incentives, according to HomeAdvisor (updated June 19, 2026). Installation runs $2.50 to $3.50 per watt, and the panels themselves account for roughly a third of that at $0.70 to $1.50 per watt.
How does the cost change with system size?
Per HomeAdvisor, a 5 kW system typically costs $12,500-$17,500, an 8 kW system $17,600-$28,000, a 10 kW system $25,000-$35,000, and a 12 kW system $30,000-$42,000, before incentives. Larger homes with higher electricity usage generally need larger systems.
Is the 30% federal solar tax credit still available in 2026?
No. The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) was permanently repealed for residential systems by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and does not apply to any system installed and placed in service after December 31, 2025, according to the IRS's official FAQ on the law. Homeowners purchasing a system outright in 2026 do not receive this federal credit, though state and utility incentives may still apply separately.
How much does solar panel maintenance cost?
According to HomeAdvisor, annual cleaning runs $150 to $750 and a yearly inspection costs $150 to $300. Repairs, when needed, typically cost $200 to $1,250.
How long do solar panels last?
HomeAdvisor reports a typical solar panel system lifespan of 25 to 40 years, depending on the panel type and how well the system is maintained.
What factors affect the cost of a solar installation?
HomeAdvisor identifies location, system size, panel quality, and job complexity as the main factors driving installation cost per watt. Roof condition, shading, and the electrical work needed to tie into your home also affect the final price.
What if my roof needs repairs before installing solar panels?
HomeAdvisor prices roof repairs at $150 to $7,000, done separately before panel installation. On an older roof, this can be a bigger swing factor than the panels themselves, so it's worth having your roof inspected before you finalize a solar quote.
How much does it cost to replace a solar inverter?
HomeAdvisor prices inverter replacement at $1,000 to $3,000 over the life of the system — a maintenance cost worth budgeting for separately from the upfront installation price.
Related projects
Have a specific solar installation question, or think one of these numbers is out of date? Contact us and we'll look into it.