As of 2026, the average cost of solar panel installation in California is around $2.73 per watt, or $2,730 per kilowatt (kW).
The Solar Energy Industries Association reports that the average cost of solar panel installation in California is $2.85 per watt, with a total cost of $2,850 per kW.
The California Public Utilities Commission offers incentives for solar panel installation, with a total cost per kW ranging from $2,500 to $3,500, depending on the system size and location.
The cost of solar panels in California can range from $2.50 to $3.50 per watt, or $2,500 to $3,500 per kW, depending on the solar panel brand, system size, and installation company.
Use our solar panel installation cost calculator to estimate the cost of solar panels in California, with prices starting at $2.75 per watt, or $2,750 per kW.
A study by the University of California, San Diego found that the average cost of solar panel installation in California is around $2.90 per watt, with a total cost of $2,900 per kW.
Watch our video guide to learn about the cost of solar panel installation in California, including the average cost per kW and the best solar panel brands for California homeowners.
A comparison of solar panel installation costs in California found that the average cost per kW can range from $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the installation company and system size.