Solar Panel Cost in New York City, NY (2026)
Solar panel costs in New York City, NY typically run above the New York state average. A 6 kW system in New York City costs about $25,150 before the 30% federal ITC, with payback around 8.5 years at local utility rates.
Quick answer
In New York City, a 6 kW solar panel system costs about $25,150 installed (8.5-year payback). After the 30% federal tax credit, net cost is roughly $17,600. Annual savings: ~$1,700/year at 22.8¢/kWh.
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Estimate for New York
$9,700net after 30% ITC
~4 kW · 10 panels · $13,800 before credits · 22.8¢/kWh
Annual savings
$1,132
Payback
8.6 yrs
25-year savings
$29,724
25-year savings timeline
Includes ~3% utility rate growth & 0.5%/yr panel degradation
New York City vs US Average
| Metric | NY | US avg |
|---|---|---|
| 6 kW system (before credit) | $25,150 | $16,271 |
| Net cost after 30% ITC | $17,600 | $11,390 |
| Cost per watt | $0.00/W | — |
| Annual electricity savings | $1,700 | $1,335 |
| Payback period (years) | 8.5 yrs | 9 yrs |
| Electricity rate | 22.8¢/kWh | — |
Updated 2026-07-07. Estimates only.
What affects solar costs in New York City?
NYC metro solar faces premium labor, fire department review, and limited roof space — expect costs 20–30% above upstate NY. Con Edison territory has high rates supporting ROI despite install premium.
Long Island and Westchester offer more roof area and competitive installer markets vs. the five boroughs.
NYC proper is among the highest-cost installs nationally but $0.22+/kWh rates can still support 9–12 year payback.
New York City solar snapshot
- 6 kW system: $19,600 – $34,650
- After 30% ITC: $17,600
- Electric rate: 22.8¢/kWh · Peak sun: 4 hrs/day
- Payback: ~8.5 years · Annual savings: ~$1,700
How to maximize solar ROI in New York City
- Compare NYC vs. Long Island installers
- Check NY-Sun block availability
- Verify co-op/condo board rules early
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in New York City?
A 6 kW solar system in New York City, NY typically costs $19,600–$34,650 before incentives, or $17,600 after the 30% federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in New York City?
With 22.8¢/kWh electricity rates and 4 peak sun hours, New York City homeowners often see 8.5-year payback. Use our calculator for your roof and usage.
How does New York City compare to New York?
New York City install pricing is among the higher-cost metros in New York.
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.