A single solar panel costs between $120-$315 for the equipment only, or $1,000-$1,200 when professionally installed. Most homeowners spend between $12,600 and $33,376 to install a complete residential solar system in 2026, with the national average at $19,873 before incentives. Your actual cost depends on your home's energy needs, roof characteristics, location and other factors, all of which we'll break down in. System purchases offer dramatic savings: Buying panels as part of a complete solar system costs 40-65% less per panel ($0. 50/watt) compared to individual retail purchases ($0. Department of. The cost of installing solar is far less intimidating when you understand the various components, how savings are generated, and different ways to lower your cash outlay through financing.