Solar Panel Cost in Houston, TX (2026)
Solar panel costs in Houston, TX typically run near the Texas state average. A 6 kW system in Houston costs about $16,300 before the 30% federal ITC, with payback around 8.3 years at local utility rates.
Quick answer
In Houston, a 6 kW solar panel system costs about $16,300 installed (8.3-year payback). After the 30% federal tax credit, net cost is roughly $11,400. Annual savings: ~$1,310/year at 12.8¢/kWh.
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Estimate for Texas
$7,200net after 30% ITC
~4 kW · 10 panels · $10,300 before credits · 12.8¢/kWh
Annual savings
$874
Payback
8.2 yrs
25-year savings
$22,944
25-year savings timeline
Includes ~3% utility rate growth & 0.5%/yr panel degradation
Houston vs US Average
| Metric | TX | US avg |
|---|---|---|
| 6 kW system (before credit) | $16,300 | $16,271 |
| Net cost after 30% ITC | $11,400 | $11,390 |
| Cost per watt | $0.00/W | — |
| Annual electricity savings | $1,310 | $1,335 |
| Payback period (years) | 8.3 yrs | 9 yrs |
| Electricity rate | 12.8¢/kWh | — |
Updated 2026-07-07. Estimates only.
What affects solar costs in Houston?
Houston’s solar market is driven by high summer AC loads and competitive installer density across Harris County. CenterPoint Energy territory dominates — verify your retail electric provider’s solar buyback plan before sizing.
Flat and low-slope roofs are common in Houston; tilt racks may improve production on certain home styles. Hurricane-rated mounting is standard in coastal-adjacent suburbs.
Houston install costs run near the Texas average with strong sun (5+ peak hours) supporting 8–11 year payback despite moderate electricity rates.
Houston solar snapshot
- 6 kW system: $12,700 – $22,400
- After 30% ITC: $11,400
- Electric rate: 12.8¢/kWh · Peak sun: 5.5 hrs/day
- Payback: ~8.3 years · Annual savings: ~$1,310
How to maximize solar ROI in Houston
- Compare Katy vs. inner-loop Houston labor rates
- Size for summer AC peak
- Check REP solar buyback before signing
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Houston?
A 6 kW solar system in Houston, TX typically costs $12,700–$22,400 before incentives, or $11,400 after the 30% federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Houston?
With 12.8¢/kWh electricity rates and 5.5 peak sun hours, Houston homeowners often see 8.3-year payback. Use our calculator for your roof and usage.
How does Houston compare to Texas?
Houston install pricing is near the state median in Texas.
Related pages
How We Calculate Solar Costs
MySunROI estimates combine NREL residential PV installed-price benchmarks, EIA state electricity rates, and regional labor modifiers — updated 2026-07-07.
Estimates only. Last updated 2026-07-07. Estimates based on NREL PV cost benchmarks, EIA electricity rates, and 2026 installer pricing surveys.