Solar Panel Cost & ROI Calculator

Estimate your solar system size, installed cost, federal tax credit, and payback period in under 30 seconds.

Estimates assume net metering at retail rate where available. California NEM 3.0, Florida net metering changes, and Texas retail electric provider rules can shift ROI substantially. Battery storage adds $13,000-$22,000 (same 30% credit applies).

Get a real quote from a local pro

Cost calculators give you a rough range. To get an actual price for your home, get free quotes from licensed local contractors:

By submitting, you provide your electronic signature and express written consent to be contacted by The Home Service Guide and its network of licensed contractors at the phone number and email provided, including via autodialer, prerecorded messages, and SMS. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out. Privacy | Terms

About this calculator

This calculator estimates system size based on your annual electricity usage and state-specific solar production factor (kWh per kW per year). Installed cost uses $2.50-$3.50/W pricing typical across our 7 states in 2026. The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit applies through 2032 to cash and loan purchases (leases/PPAs transfer the credit to the installer).

State incentives stack on top of the federal credit. NJ SuSI ($85/MWh for 15 years), NY-Sun rebates, MA SMART program, CT Green Bank financing, and California NEM 3.0 export credits can all reduce net cost. A local installer will model your specific utility tariff.