Solar Panel Cost in Seattle, WA (2026)
Solar panel costs in Seattle, WA typically run above the Washington state average. A 6 kW system in Seattle costs about $21,050 before the 30% federal ITC, with payback around 15.8 years at local utility rates.
Quick answer
In Seattle, a 6 kW solar panel system costs about $21,050 installed (15.8-year payback). After the 30% federal tax credit, net cost is roughly $14,750. Annual savings: ~$820/year at 11¢/kWh.
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Estimate for Washington
$8,600net after 30% ITC
~4 kW · 10 panels · $12,300 before credits · 11¢/kWh
Annual savings
$546
Payback
15.8 yrs
25-year savings
$14,340
25-year savings timeline
Includes ~3% utility rate growth & 0.5%/yr panel degradation
Seattle vs US Average
| Metric | WA | US avg |
|---|---|---|
| 6 kW system (before credit) | $21,050 | $16,271 |
| Net cost after 30% ITC | $14,750 | $11,390 |
| Cost per watt | $0.00/W | — |
| Annual electricity savings | $820 | $1,335 |
| Payback period (years) | 15.8 yrs | 9 yrs |
| Electricity rate | 11¢/kWh | — |
Updated 2026-07-07. Estimates only.
What affects solar costs in Seattle?
Seattle City Light and Puget Sound Energy territories both support net metering. Cloudy winters reduce production but long summer days and rising rates improve lifetime ROI.
Bellevue and Seattle proper charge premium labor — Tacoma and Everett often 10–15% less.
Western WA payback runs 11–14 years — longer than sunbelt but rates rising 3–4%/year improve outlook.
Seattle solar snapshot
- 6 kW system: $16,450 – $28,950
- After 30% ITC: $14,750
- Electric rate: 11¢/kWh · Peak sun: 4 hrs/day
- Payback: ~15.8 years · Annual savings: ~$820
How to maximize solar ROI in Seattle
- Compare Seattle vs. Tacoma installers
- Washington sales tax exemption on solar equipment
- Plan for lower winter production
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Seattle?
A 6 kW solar system in Seattle, WA typically costs $16,450–$28,950 before incentives, or $14,750 after the 30% federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Seattle?
With 11¢/kWh electricity rates and 4 peak sun hours, Seattle homeowners often see 15.8-year payback. Use our calculator for your roof and usage.
How does Seattle compare to Washington?
Seattle install pricing is among the higher-cost metros in Washington.
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.