how expensive are solar panels

Solar panels in 2025 typically cost between $2 and $3 per watt, with an average around $2.75 to $2.84 per watt for installation in the U.S. For a typical household needing a 10-kilowatt (kW) system, the total cost before incentives is about $28,000, which can drop to about $20,000 after federal tax credits. Prices vary by location, system size, and local incentives, with small DIY panels costing roughly $200 to $350 each. Expensive add-ons like solar batteries can add $7,000 to $18,000 to the overall cost. Maintenance is light, and a system typically includes a 25-year warranty.