Solar panels cost $11,560 to $28,600 per system in 2026
Solar panels cost $11,560 to $28,600 per system in 2026, before incentives. ConsumerAffairs lists an average of $20,534, or $2.78 per watt. EnergySage lists $2.60 per watt. System size, panel type, a battery, and how you pay move the price. A 4 kW system costs far less than a 10 kW system. Get several quotes and compare the cost per watt.
What price guides say
We checked 4 price guides and read every number on their pages on October 7, 2026. They do not all measure the same thing, so read each line for what it counts.
| Source | What it found |
|---|---|
| EnergySage | EnergySage lists an average of $2.60 per watt before incentives, with a 6 kW system at $16,080 and a 10 kW system at $25,800. |
| ConsumerAffairs | ConsumerAffairs lists an average of $20,534 before incentives, a range of $13,962 to $27,924, and $2.78 per watt. |
| SolarReviews | SolarReviews lists an average of $21,816 for cash, $3.03 per watt, a 4 kW system at $14,560, and a 10 kW system at $28,600. |
| Inch Calculator | Inch Calculator lists a national average of $18,000 for a 6 kW system, with a typical range of $15,000 to $25,000. |
Solar cost by system size, before incentives
| System size | Total cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,560 | EnergySage |
| 4 kW | $14,560 | SolarReviews |
| 6 kW | $16,080 | EnergySage |
| 6 kW | $16,745 | ConsumerAffairs |
| 8 kW | $20,960 | EnergySage |
| 10 kW | $25,800 | EnergySage |
| 10 kW | $28,600 | SolarReviews |
| 12 kW | $30,720 | EnergySage |
Every number in this table was read on one of the source pages listed at the bottom of this page.
What pushes the price up
| What | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| System size | A bigger system costs more in total but less per watt. EnergySage lists $2.89 per watt for 4 kW and $2.47 per watt for 15 kW. |
| Cost per watt | Prices differ by installer and region. ConsumerAffairs lists an average of $2.78 per watt, and SolarReviews lists $3.03 per watt. |
| Panel type | Better grade panels cost more. Inch Calculator lists monocrystalline panels at $1.25 to $2 per watt and thin film at $0.90 to $1. |
| Batteries | A battery adds a lot to the bill. ConsumerAffairs says adding a solar battery typically adds $7,000 to $18,000. |
| How you pay | A loan costs more than cash. SolarReviews says financing raises the cost to about $3.62 per watt from $3.03 for cash. |
What the price includes
A solar quote usually covers panels, an inverter, mounting, wiring, labor, permits, and hookup to the grid. Batteries, roof repairs, and a panel upgrade are often extra. ConsumerAffairs says a battery adds $7,000 to $18,000. Ask if the price is before or after incentives. It does not include tax or extras the provider adds on the day.
Who charges this and how it is billed
Solar installers range from small local firms to large national brands. Most quote a total price and a price per watt. You can pay cash, take a loan, or sign a lease or power purchase deal. Loans add fees and interest, which SolarReviews says lifts the cost to about $3.62 per watt. Ask what incentives still apply to your home, since the rules change. Get every fee, warranty, and payment step in writing before you sign anything. Take your time.
When you need this
Solar fits homes with high power bills, a sunny roof, and a roof in good shape. It may suit you if you plan to stay in the home for many years. A roof that is old or shaded can raise the cost or lower the savings. Ask for a roof check and a savings estimate from each installer before you decide.
How to judge your quote
- Is the price listed per watt and as a total, before incentives?
- What are the panel brand, inverter, and warranty terms?
- Does the quote include permits, hookup, and any roof work?
- Is the price for cash or for a loan, and are loan fees included?
- Compare the total with the range above: $11,560 to $28,600 per system for most people in 2026.
Ways to pay less
- Get at least three quotes and compare the cost per watt, not only the total. ConsumerAffairs rates under $2.50 per watt as excellent.
- Pay cash if you can. SolarReviews says a loan raises the cost per watt from about $3.03 to $3.62 because of fees and interest.
- Size the system to your power use. A system bigger than you need raises the price, and EnergySage shows each added kW costs more.
- Skip a battery at first if your grid is stable. ConsumerAffairs lists batteries at $7,000 to $18,000, and you can add one later.
- Ask about state, local, and utility rebates before you sign. Incentive rules change, so get what applies to you in writing.
How we got these numbers
The range on this page comes from EnergySage, ConsumerAffairs, SolarReviews and Inch Calculator. We opened each source page and read every number on it on October 7, 2026. Where the sources disagree, the table above shows each one so you can see the spread. These are planning ranges, not quotes. The written price you are given is the real price.
Common questions
How much do solar panels cost in 2026?
ConsumerAffairs lists an average of $20,534 before incentives. SolarReviews lists $21,816 and Inch Calculator lists $18,000.
How much do solar panels cost per watt?
EnergySage lists an average of $2.60 per watt. ConsumerAffairs lists $2.78 and SolarReviews lists $3.03.
How much does a 6 kW system cost?
EnergySage lists $16,080. ConsumerAffairs lists $16,745 and SolarReviews lists $19,140.
How much does a solar battery add?
ConsumerAffairs says a solar battery typically adds $7,000 to $18,000.
Is it cheaper to pay cash?
Yes. SolarReviews says cash costs about $3.03 per watt and a loan costs about $3.62 per watt.