Solar panel cost in Cambridge, MA (2026)
A typical Cambridge home needs about a 6.2 kW system (~16 panels), costing roughly $19,840 upfront or $18,840 after state incentives. The 30% federal credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025 (a lease/PPA can still pass it through). At 3.98 peak sun hours and Massachusetts's 29.9¢/kWh rate, it pays back in about 8.8 years and saves an estimated $54,349 over 25 years.
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| Annual electricity use | 7,184 kWh |
| Annual solar production | 7,205 kWh |
| Gross system cost | $19,840 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $1,000 |
| 30% via lease/PPA instead | ~$5,952 value |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 2.5 tons (~41 trees) |
Estimates only — not a quote or financial advice. See our methodology.
What makes Cambridge different
Cambridge (population ~110,402) gets 3.98 peak sun hours per day — that's 7% less sunny than the Massachusetts average of 4.3. Slightly less local sunlight means panels produce a touch less than the state average, so sizing and orientation matter. Electricity rates, net metering, and incentives are set at the Massachusetts level: residents pay about 29.9¢/kWh, and smart program + state tax credit up to $1,000.
| City peak sun hours | 3.98 hrs/day |
| Recommended system size | 6.2 kW (~16 panels) |
| Installed price per watt | $3/W |
| Gross system cost | $19,840 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 31, 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $1,000 |
| Net cash cost | $18,840 |
| 30% credit via lease/PPA | ~$5,952 value |
| Annual energy produced | 7,205 kWh |
| Estimated year-1 savings | $2,153 |
| Payback period | 8.8 years |
| 25-year net savings | $54,349 |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 2.5 tons (~41 trees) |
Compare with the Massachusetts state average (5.7 kW, $17,240 net, 8.1-yr payback). Modeled estimates, June 2026 — not a quote. See methodology.
Compare real solar quotes in Cambridge, MA
See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.