Solar Panel Installation Cost (2026)
~$22,000
National average cost of solar panel installation on a typical home (~7 kW system) in 2026.
Typical range: $15,000 – $37,000
Source: NREL / EnergySage benchmarks + DSIRE, 2026 (pre-incentive)
A solar panel installation costs about $22,000 nationally, but the real number depends heavily on where you live. HomeCostLens starts from this researched national average and applies a local price factor for each metro, so you get a figure that reflects your city's labor, climate, and permit costs — not a one-size-fits-all national number.
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Solar Panel Installation cost by system size
| System size | Typical national total |
|---|---|
| 5 kW (small home) | $16,000 |
| 7 kW (typical home) | $22,000 |
| 10 kW (large home) | $31,000 |
| 12 kW (high usage) | $37,000 |
| 7 kW + battery storage | $32,000 |
Solar Panel Installation cost by system size (national)
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Solar Panel Installation cost by city
Local cost = national average × each metro's location factor. Pick your city:
Frequently asked questions
- How much does solar panel installation cost on average?
- Nationally, solar panel installation costs about $22,000, with most homeowners paying $15,000 – $37,000. Your local price depends on labor rates, materials and scope, and code — pick your city below for a local figure.
- What is the most affordable solar panel installation option?
- 5 kW (small home) is typically the lowest-cost option at around $16,000 nationally, while premium options cost considerably more.