How Much Does Residential Solar Installation Cost?
Average cost: $22,500 | Range: $15,000 - $30,000
Average Cost
$22,500
Low End
$15,000
High End
$30,000
Time Required
1-3 days
What Affects the Price?
The biggest factor is system size. A 6 kW system costs less than a 10 kW system but both benefit from economies of scale. Roof complexity (multiple planes, steep pitch, tile roofing) adds $1,000-$3,000. Premium panels like SunPower Maxeon cost more but produce more power per square foot.
Key Cost Factors
- System size (kW)
- Panel brand and efficiency
- Roof type and complexity
- Local permit costs
- Labor rates by region
- Inverter type (string vs micro)
Cost Per Watt
Low End
$2.50/W
High End
$3.50/W
After the 30% federal ITC, the effective cost per watt drops to $1.75-$2.45/W.
Cost by State (Sample)
| State | Low | High | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $13,800 | $27,600 | $20,700 |
| Alaska | $21,000 | $42,000 | $31,500 |
| Arizona | $14,550 | $29,100 | $21,825 |
| Arkansas | $13,050 | $26,100 | $19,575 |
| California | $20,250 | $40,500 | $30,375 |
| Colorado | $16,200 | $32,400 | $24,300 |
| Connecticut | $18,300 | $36,600 | $27,450 |
| Delaware | $15,750 | $31,500 | $23,625 |
| Florida | $15,000 | $30,000 | $22,500 |
| Georgia | $14,250 | $28,500 | $21,375 |