A 5kW solar system costs between $10,500 and $16,000 before incentives in 2026, with most homeowners paying around $13,000. After applying the federal solar tax credit, which currently stands at 30%, your out-of-pocket expense drops to approximately $9,100. That’s the short answer, but understanding what drives these numbers makes the difference between a smart investment and an expensive mistake.
The price you’ll actually pay depends on five key factors: your location, the equipment quality you choose, your roof’s characteristics, local labor rates, and available state or utility incentives. A homeowner in …