How much do solar panels cost?

For a typical U.S. single-family home, a rooftop solar system is usually sized between 6 and 12 kW. Installed pricing before incentives generally runs $2.50 to $4.50 per watt depending on the state, the installer and the equipment tier — so a gross price in the low-to-mid five figures is normal, with the net cost lower where incentives still apply.

What drives the price

• System size — driven by how much electricity you use and how much of the bill you want to offset.
• Price per watt — the single most useful comparison number. It bundles panels, inverter, racking, labor, permitting and the installer's margin.
• Equipment tier — premium panels and microinverters cost more up front but can produce more in shade or heat.
• Roof complexity — steep pitches, multiple planes, tile roofs and long conduit runs add labor.
• Add-ons — a battery, a main-panel upgrade, or roof work are separate line items.

Incentives

The 30% federal residential tax credit (Section 25D) applied to systems placed in service through the end of 2025. A 2026 or later residential install does not qualify. Some states and utilities still offer credits, rebates or production payments — see solar incentives by state.

Get an accurate number

National ranges only get you so far. Use the Solar Cost Calculator with your own bill and state, check what solar costs in your state or city, then get quotes and sanity-check them with the Quote Checker.