☀️ Solar panels in Arlington, VA: cost & savings (2026)
Cost after tax credit: $16,800 · Payback: 9.5 years · Est. savings: $1,760/year.
With about 234,000 residents, Arlington is a large city and the #3 largest city in Virginia. Homes here pay Virginia's residential rate of 14¢/kWh (about $157/month), so a typical 8 kW solar system — roughly $16,800 after the 30% federal tax credit — saves close to $1,760/year and pays back in about 9.5 years. That makes solar usually worth it in Arlington. Below, compare nearby Virginia cities and get real quotes.
Is solar worth it in Arlington?
Solar pays off fastest where power is expensive and the sun is strong. In Arlington, electricity runs about 14¢/kWh and South sunlight gives a production factor of 1.10×. A standard system offsetting most of a $157/month bill returns roughly $1,760/year and pays for itself in about 9.5 years.
Your real result depends on roof, shading, exact usage and installer pricing. Always compare a couple of real Arlington quotes before signing.
Arlington solar FAQ
How much do solar panels cost in Arlington, VA?
A typical 8 kW home system is around $24,000 before incentives, or about $16,800 after the 30% federal tax credit in Arlington. Local utility or Virginia incentives can lower it further.
Is solar worth it in Arlington?
In Arlington it's usually worth it: with Virginia electricity at 14¢/kWh and South sunlight, a system saves roughly $1,760/year and pays for itself in about 9.5 years, then produces largely free power for the rest of its 25+ year life.
How much can I save with solar in Arlington?
About $1,760 per year and roughly $27,200 over 25 years after the system pays for itself. Exact savings depend on your roof, shading and usage.
How do I get cheap solar in Arlington?
Get at least three quotes from installers active in Arlington, claim the 30% federal tax credit, stack any Virginia or utility rebates, and avoid oversizing the system beyond your $157/month usage.