Get Solar Panel Quotes — 2026 Guide
Get Solar Panel Quotes: What It Costs and What to Know
In 2025 homeowners installed about 3.5 million residential solar systems, spending roughly $22,000 on average per house. If you want to get solar panel quotes today, expect a national range of $12,000 to $30,000 before incentives.
Solar Cost Breakdown (National Averages)
The price you see on a quote reflects three main buckets: labor, materials, and permits. Labor includes the crew that mounts the racking, runs the wiring, and connects the inverter; it typically runs $4,500 on the low end, $7,200 at the average, and $10,800 at the high end. Materials cover panels, inverters, mounting hardware, and wiring, with costs of $5,000, $8,500, and $12,000 respectively. Permits and fees vary by jurisdiction but usually fall between $600 and $1,500. Adding those pieces together gives a total that can start around $10,100, settle near $22,200 for a typical system, and climb to $34,300 for premium installations.
| Cost Factor | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $4,500 | $7,200 | $10,800 |
| Materials / parts | $5,000 | $8,500 | $12,000 |
| Permits / fees | $600 | $1,050 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,100 | $22,200 | $34,300 |
Solar Costs by Region and Major City
The Northeast pushes the price upward. A 6 kW system in New York City typically lands at $27,600, about 25 % above the national average. The Midwest stays near the middle; a Chicago install of the same size usually costs $22,200, matching the average. The South offers the deepest discounts; an Atlanta homeowner can secure a comparable system for $18,900, roughly 15 % below the national figure. Out west, Phoenix residents see a modest premium, with a 6 kW layout costing $25,500, reflecting a 15 % increase. Those numbers illustrate how regional multipliers shape the final quote you receive.
What Affects Solar Pricing the Most
System size drives the headline number. Adding another kilowatt typically adds $2,800 to $3,200, depending on panel efficiency. Panel type matters; monocrystalline modules run $1.20 per watt, while cheaper polycrystalline options hover around $0.90 per watt. Inverter choice adds $1,000 for a string inverter but can climb to $2,300 for a micro‑inverter array. Finally, local labor rates shift the bottom line; a city with a $80 per hour crew will push a quote $1,500 higher than a market where labor averages $60 per hour.
How to Choose a Licensed Solar Pro
Start by confirming the contractor holds a state solar installer license and carries general liability insurance of at least $1 million. Look for membership in the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP); that credential adds a layer of credibility. Avoid firms that can’t produce a copy of their insurance certificate within 48 hours. Collect at least three quotes, then compare not just price but warranty length, equipment brands, and projected energy production. A reputable pro will walk you through the performance model and explain how shading or roof orientation could shift the numbers.
How to Get Free Solar Quotes
The quickest way to gather numbers is to fill out an online form that captures your address, roof size, and electricity usage. Within a day or two, licensed contractors will reach out with a PDF estimate. You can then ask follow‑up questions about financing, tax credits, and system design. The process is free, and it puts you in the driver’s seat before any paperwork is signed. 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.?
A typical residential system costs between $12,000 and $30,000 before federal tax credits, with the national average hovering around $22,200.
What factors change the price the most?
System size, panel efficiency, inverter type, and local labor rates are the biggest levers, each capable of shifting a quote by several thousand dollars.
How many quotes should I get?
Three independent estimates give you enough data to spot outliers and negotiate the best value.
How do I know a solar pro is licensed and insured?
Ask for a copy of the state solar installer license and a certificate of liability insurance showing at least $1 million coverage; verify both with the issuing agency.
Is it cheaper in some parts of the country?
Yes. The South generally runs 10–15 % below the national average, while the Northeast and West Coast add 20–30 % and 15–25 % respectively.
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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.