How much does solar cost per square foot?

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.

How much does a 1500 square foot Solar System cost?

The average solar system costs around $27,500 before incentives, and around $19,250 after the 30% tax credit for a 1,500 square foot house, according to a data analysis by Solar.com. That boils down to a rate of around $12.80 per square foot of living space. Related reading: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for a 1,500 Square Foot Home?

How much does it cost to install solar panels?

Find a solar panel installer near you to get an estimate for your home. An average 1,500 square foot home will likely need 16 panels to cover its electric usage. If your home is shaded or faces east/west, you might need more than 16 panels. While panels themselves cost $0.70 to $1.50 per watt, the price to install solar panels costs $3.20 per watt.

How much does solar cost per square foot in 2025?

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.

How much does solar cost in California?

Divide annual kWh by ~1,200 (typical kWh/year per kW of solar in much of California). In California, expect $2.75 – $3.50 per watt before incentives (solar panel cost in California). This gives your solar cost per square foot. Estimate your system size, price before and after incentives, and cost per square foot.

How much does a home solar system cost?

Home solar systems typically range from $6 to $12 per square foot of living space. The actual cost may vary based on the size and electricity consumption. These estimates are assuming the homeowner claims the 30% federal tax credit * for the solar system.