Quick answer: A typical 8 kW residential solar system in New York costs about $22,000–$28,000 before incentives in 2026, or roughly $13,000–$17,000 after the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the NY State 25% solar tax credit (capped at $5,000), and NY-Sun block incentives.
What drives solar costs in New York?
Three factors: equipment tier (Tier 1 panels and high-end inverters cost more), roof complexity (multiple planes and steep pitches add labor), and your utility (Con Ed, National Grid, NYSEG, Orange & Rockland all interconnect differently).
Does my installer also do my roof?
Some do. If your roof is older than 10–15 years, ask any solar installer whether they offer a solar+roofing combo. Doing both with one contractor is usually cheaper than coordinating separate trades.
Federal + NY incentives, simplified
- Federal Solar ITC: 30% of total system cost as a tax credit
- NY State Solar Tax Credit: 25%, up to $5,000
- NY-Sun block incentive (varies by utility region)
- Property tax exemption on the value added by solar (15 years)
- Sales tax exemption on solar equipment