How much does a 20 kW solar panel system cost?

If you're shopping for a solar energy system, one of your first questions is probably, "How much will it cost?" Prices depend on the size of your system, the type of equipment you choose, and the state you live in. Reviewing prices for a 20-kilowatt (kW) system is a great place to start for many smaller homes. Learn more about how much a 20 kW solar system costs, how much electricity a 20 kW system will produce, and the smartest way to shop for solar.

As of January 2022, the average cost of solar in the U.S. is $2.77 per watt - that comes out to about $55,400 for a 20 kW system. That means the total cost for a 20 kW solar system would be $40,996 after the federal solar tax credit discount (not factoring in any additional state rebates or incentives).

We looked at data from the EnergySage Solar Marketplace, the leading comparison-shopping platform for homeowners considering home solar panel systems, to find out just how much solar shoppers are paying for 20 kW solar energy systems in different states across the U.S.

The prices listed below have not had the 26 percent federal tax credit for solar deducted. Depending on where you live, you might have additional state or local solar incentives and rebates that reduce the price even more. You may also earn extra income by selling your system's solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs). Even if there are no other incentives where you live, comparing multiple offers from solar companies is important to ensure you're finding the best deal. Homeowners who register their property on EnergySage save up to 20 percent just by shopping around for the right option for their home.

How much does a 20,000W (20 kW) solar system cost in my state?

Remember, solar costs depend on many factors, so these numbers are just meant to be a starting point. In most cases, you should be able to find a 20 kW solar system in this price range – if you receive offers from solar companies that are much higher or lower, be sure to ask follow-up questions.

The amount of electricity your solar panels produce depends on many factors, including the direction and angle of your roof. The most important one is how sunny it is where you live – for example, a 20 kW system in Las Vegas makes about 30 percent more electricity in a year than in Philadelphia. You don't have to live in the Southwest for solar to make sense. The cost of electricity where you live is the biggest determinant of your solar savings.

The table below shows average estimated electricity production numbers for 20 kW solar energy systems in cities across the U.S. By comparison, the average household in the U.S. uses about 893 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a month, which equals 10,715 kWh per year. We estimated these numbers using PV Watts, a tool developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Solar electricity output of a 20 kW solar panel system in top U.S. cities

Now that you know what to expect, you can ensure that you get the best deal on a 20 kW solar energy system by registering your property on the EnergySage Solar Marketplace. Use the comprehensive, easy-to-understand comparison tables to evaluate your equipment options, financing offers, and solar company reviews. When you compare multiple solar quotes, you can feel confident that you're making a wise investment in your home.