Get A Quote For Solar Panels — 2026 Guide
Get A Quote For Solar Panels: What It Costs and What to Know
In 2026 the typical residential solar system runs between $15,000 and $35,000 before federal tax credits. If you want to get a quote for solar panels, expect the final price to reflect local labor rates, equipment choices, and permitting fees.
Solar Cost Breakdown (National Averages)
Pricing is driven by three main buckets: labor, materials, and permits. Labor covers the design, roof work, and electrical connections. Materials include panels, inverters, racking, and wiring. Permits and fees are set by city or county governments. Below is a realistic spread based on recent installer data.
| Cost Factor | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $4,500 | $7,500 | $10,500 |
| Materials / parts | $7,000 | $12,000 | $17,000 |
| Permits / fees | $500 | $1,200 | $2,000 |
| Total | $12,000 | $20,700 | $29,500 |
Solar Costs by Region and Major City
Regional multipliers shift the national average up or down. In the Northeast, costs sit 20‑30 % higher; the West Coast adds 15‑25 %; the South drops 10‑15 %; the Midwest and Mountain West hover near the average.
New York, NY (Northeast): The average $20,700 national figure inflates to roughly $25,000‑$27,000. A 28 % increase pushes a typical 6 kW system to $26,500., Chicago, IL (Midwest): With the Midwest at the baseline, a Chicago homeowner still sees about $20,500 for a standard install., Atlanta, GA (South): The southern discount brings the same system down to $17,500‑$18,200, roughly a 12 % reduction., and Phoenix, AZ (West Coast‑adjacent): Although Phoenix isn’t on the coast, the western cost premium applies, lifting the price to $23,500‑$24,800, a 15 % bump..
These figures assume standard monocrystalline panels and a typical roof layout. Upgrading to premium glass‑glazed modules can add $2,000‑$4,000 regardless of region.
What Affects Solar Pricing the Most
The biggest driver is the type of panel you choose. A standard 300 W monocrystalline panel costs about $180 per panel, while a high‑efficiency 400 W model climbs to $250. For a 6 kW system that’s a $3,000‑$5,000 swing.
Next comes roof complexity. A simple sloped roof with easy access adds roughly $1,200 in labor, while multiple angles or a steep pitch can push labor to $4,500.
Finally, local permitting can range from $500 in small towns to $2,000 in large metros, adding a noticeable line item to the total.
How to Choose a Licensed Solar Pro
First, verify that the installer holds a valid contractor’s license for the state where the project will occur. Look for a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification; that alone can be worth $0 extra but signals quality.
Second, ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation—most reputable firms carry $1 million limits.
Third, collect at least three independent quotes. Comparing three numbers lets you spot outliers and negotiate better terms.
Finally, read reviews on the Better Business Bureau and ask for references from recent customers in the same region.
How to Get Free Solar Quotes
The quickest path is to use an online comparison platform. Fill out a short form with your address, roof size, and energy usage. Within a day, you’ll receive multiple offers from vetted installers.
Make sure the platform screens for proper licensing and insurance before you share personal details.
Ready to get free solar quotes? Compare licensed local contractors at HaveQuote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar
How much does solar cost on average in the U.S.?
Residential solar typically costs between $12,000 and $30,000 before incentives, with the national average hovering around $20,700.
What factors change the price the most?
Panel efficiency, roof complexity, and local permitting fees are the top three drivers, creating swings of $3,000‑$5,000 for panels, $1,200‑$4,500 for labor, and $500‑$2,000 for permits.
How many quotes should I get?
Three independent quotes give you enough data to compare pricing, warranties, and installer reputations without overwhelming your inbox.
How do I know a solar pro is licensed and insured?
Ask for a copy of the state contractor’s license, verify the NABCEP certification, and request a certificate of insurance showing at least $1 million in general liability coverage.
Is it cheaper in some parts of the country?
Yes. The South generally offers 10‑15 % lower prices than the national average, while the Northeast can be 20‑30 % higher. The West Coast sits 15‑25 % above average, and the Midwest and Mountain West stay close to the baseline.
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James Whitfield has spent 18 years in residential construction and home improvement across Texas, Florida, and California. A licensed general contractor, he managed large-scale roofing and HVAC installation projects before joining HaveQuote to help homeowners make smarter decisions about contractors and costs. His work has helped thousands of families avoid overpaying for home services.