Solar Panel Cost by State 2026: $/Watt, Total Price & Payback
How much do solar panels cost in each state in 2026? Compare $/watt prices, typical 6kW system totals, and how installed cost changes your payback period.
National average in 2026
The U.S. residential median installed cost is about $2.58–$3.25 per watt in 2026 (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Tracking the Sun), before any incentives. A typical 6 kW system runs $15,500–$19,500 gross. With the federal residential credit (Section 25D) expired Dec 31 2025, most homeowners pay the full gross price in 2026.
Cost varies a lot by state
Texas and Arizona are among the cheapest at roughly $2.40–$2.70/W thanks to competitive install markets and lower labor. California and New York run $3.10–$3.30/W. Hawaii and Alaska are the most expensive at $3.30+/W. State incentives can offset part of this — use the state-by-state guide below for your exact numbers.
What $/watt actually means for payback
Every $0.25/W of installed cost adds roughly $1,500 to a 6 kW system and about 0.8 years to payback. Getting 3–5 quotes typically saves 10–20% versus accepting the first offer. Use the PVFig Solar ROI Calculator with your state and local price to see your real payback.
FAQ
What is the average cost per watt for solar in 2026?
About $2.58–$3.25/W installed nationally, per Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Texas and Arizona are at the low end; California and Hawaii at the high end.
How much does a 6 kW solar system cost in 2026?
Roughly $15,500–$19,500 gross, depending on your state, roof, and installer. No federal credit applies in 2026, so this is close to your net cost unless state incentives apply.
Which states have the cheapest solar installation?
Texas and Arizona lead at about $2.40–$2.70/W. Competitive installer markets and high production keep the effective cost per kWh low.
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Sources
- U.S. EIA — electricity rates by state, eia.gov/electricity/monthly
- NREL PVWatts v8 — solar production by location, pvwatts.nrel.gov
- DSIRE — state incentives and net metering, dsireusa.org
- See how every figure on this page is calculated — PVFig methodology.
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