Solar Panel Cost Guide (2026)
What home solar actually costs, by system size, panel type and city. Gross ranges before the 30% federal tax credit, to budget with and to check installer quotes against.
Solar cost by panel and system type
| Item | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Monocrystalline Solar Panels | $16,000 – $30,000 |
| Polycrystalline Solar Panels | $14,000 – $26,000 |
| Thin-Film Solar Panels | $12,000 – $22,000 |
| Off-Grid Solar System | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Solar Shingles | $30,000 – $60,000 |
Figures are gross, before the 30% federal tax credit. Larger systems and premium panels cost more.
Solar cost by system size
System size in kilowatts (kW) is the main cost driver. Estimated gross cost by system size, before the 30% federal credit:
| Item | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| 4 kW system | $9,600 – $13,600 |
| 6 kW system | $14,400 – $20,400 |
| 8 kW system | $19,200 – $27,200 |
| 10 kW system | $24,000 – $34,000 |
| 12 kW system | $28,800 – $40,800 |
Estimate your solar system cost
Enter your system size and city for a range specific to you.
Is solar worth it for your home?
- High or rising monthly electric bills
- A sunny, unshaded roof (south or west facing is best)
- You plan to stay 6+ years to reach payback
- Your utility offers net metering or a fair buyback rate
- You can use the 30% federal tax credit
- Your roof is in good shape (replace an old roof first)
How to save
- Get three or more quotes — solar pricing varies widely by installer
- Claim the 30% federal solar tax credit (ITC)
- Check state and utility rebates and net-metering terms
- Right-size the system to your real usage, do not oversize
- Compare cash vs loan — financing adds dealer fees
- Add a battery only if you truly need backup power
Explore costs by type
Solar cost by city
Other project costs
Frequently asked questions
How much do solar panels cost?
A typical residential system runs about $14,000 to $35,000 installed before incentives, depending on size and panel type. The 30% federal tax credit cuts the net cost.
Do solar panels pay for themselves?
In most sunny, high-rate markets a system pays back in roughly 7–12 years through bill savings, then produces low-cost power for its remaining 15+ year life.
What is the 30% solar tax credit?
The federal Investment Tax Credit lets you claim 30% of your installation cost against your federal taxes, cutting the effective price substantially.