Solar Panel Cost Calculator
Budget a rooftop solar install from system size in kilowatts, equipment tier, and common add-ons like battery storage and permits—then scale for your state.
Your project
System size (kW)iSystem size (kW) Use the proposed DC system size from a quote or utility application. Typical U.S. homes land near 6–10 kW. | |
|---|---|
Equipment & install tieriEquipment & install tier Economy is lean hardware and basic mounting. Mid is the usual turnkey residential package. Premium adds higher-efficiency modules and tougher warranties. | |
Your stateiYour state Scales U.S.-average labor and material midpoints for typical state-level pricing. It is not an on-site bid. |
How to use this calculator
- Enter the proposed system size in kilowatts (kW).
- Choose economy, mid-tier, or premium installed pricing.
- Toggle battery storage, permits, and roof complexity if they apply.
- Select your state and review each line in the breakdown.
Results explained
The total multiplies system kilowatts by the selected installed $/kW, then adds optional battery, permit, and roof-complexity lines before applying the state location multiplier.
Quick reference: solar install midpoints
Installed U.S.-average midpoints before the selected state adjustment.
| Scope | Midpoint |
|---|---|
| Economy installed | $2,500/kW |
| Mid-tier installed (default) | $3,200/kW |
| Premium installed | $4,000/kW |
| Battery storage package | $12,000 flat |
| Permit & inspection | $1,500 flat |
| Complex roof mount | +$200/kW |
Rates are planning midpoints; difficult access, repairs, and minimum job charges can shift quotes.
How the estimate is built
Total ≈ (kW × $/kW) + selected flat add-ons + (kW × roof-complexity $/kW), then × state multiplier. Incentives and utility interconnection fees are not modeled.
Example scenario
An 8 kW mid-tier system with permit/inspection and no battery is about $27,100 at U.S. average ($3,200 × 8 + $1,500).
FAQ
Does this include tax credits or rebates?
No. Federal and state incentives change often and depend on eligibility. Subtract them after you have a contractor quote and tax advice.
Is battery storage required?
No. Many grid-tied homes skip storage. A battery mainly adds backup power and optional time-of-use shifting.
Why price per kilowatt instead of per panel?
Quotes and incentives are usually sized in kW. Panel count varies with wattage, so $/kW compares systems more cleanly.