How Much Do Solar Panels Cost? (Jan 2026)
Expect the cost per watt to be between $2 and $3. As of
Average U.S. solar cost per square foot in 2025: $6 – $12 after the 30% federal tax credit. Cost per square foot varies by system size, energy use, location, and panel efficiency. The most accurate pricing metric is still cost per watt, but per-sq-ft estimates are helpful for ballpark figures.
Solar roofs are becoming increasingly popular as solar system costs continue to drop. In 2025, the national average cost of a solar roof system is around $49,700, including materials and labor. The typical price for a solar roof can fall anywhere between $40,000 and $60,000 for a standard project, before the 30% federal solar tax credit.
Solar panel installation costs depend on your home's size, energy needs, roof structure, and location. You can estimate around $10 to $15 per square foot of living space for solar panel installation. Keep in mind, this estimate doesn't account for tax credits or local incentives, which can significantly reduce your final cost.
In this guide, we'll break down average solar costs per square foot in 2025, show how they compare by home size, explain why this metric has limits, and give you expert tips to reduce your price. Average U.S. solar cost per square foot in 2025: $6 – $12 after the 30% federal tax credit.
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