Solar Panel Installer Salary by State (2026)
Median annual pay for solar panel installers in all 32 reporting states, from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS, May 2025) data. Roughly 26,790 solar panel installers are employed nationwide — the highest median pay is $78,950 in New Jersey, and the typical state median is about $50,240.
Top-Paying States
Full Table: All States
| # | State | Median Annual Wage | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Jersey | $78,950 | 1,880 |
| 2 | Hawaii | $70,370 | 420 |
| 3 | Nevada | $67,810 | 100 |
| 4 | Oregon | $66,320 | 360 |
| 5 | Ohio | $62,400 | 70 |
| 6 | Washington | $61,630 | — |
| 7 | Maine | $61,210 | 60 |
| 8 | California | $60,600 | 6,830 |
| 9 | Illinois | $59,630 | — |
| 10 | Massachusetts | $59,180 | 620 |
| 11 | Iowa | $56,740 | 180 |
| 12 | New York | $56,160 | 1,230 |
| 13 | Connecticut | $55,590 | — |
| 14 | Arizona | $51,160 | 1,280 |
| 15 | Florida | $50,550 | 2,980 |
| 16 | South Carolina | $50,490 | — |
| 17 | Kansas | $49,990 | — |
| 18 | Utah | $49,980 | 770 |
| 19 | Wisconsin | $49,770 | 90 |
| 20 | Colorado | $49,730 | 620 |
| 21 | Vermont | $49,490 | 250 |
| 22 | Virginia | $49,190 | — |
| 23 | New Mexico | $48,490 | 340 |
| 24 | Texas | $48,240 | 5,270 |
| 25 | Georgia | $47,790 | — |
| 26 | Pennsylvania | $47,760 | 1,210 |
| 27 | Michigan | $47,080 | 310 |
| 28 | Indiana | $46,140 | 490 |
| 29 | Maryland | $45,430 | 670 |
| 30 | Arkansas | $44,820 | — |
| 31 | North Carolina | $43,860 | 710 |
| 32 | South Dakota | $42,380 | 50 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 state estimates. "—" means BLS did not publish an estimate for that state. Wages are medians — half of workers earn more. Click a column header to sort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do solar panel installers earn more in some states than others?
State pay differences come down to union density, cost of living, licensing requirements, and local industry mix. States with strong union representation and major industrial or construction activity tend to pay solar panel installers more — but higher-paying states often have higher living costs, so compare take-home value, not just the number.
Is this what a beginner solar panel installer makes?
No — these are median wages across all experience levels, so half of solar panel installers earn more and half earn less. Apprentices and entry-level workers typically start around 40–60% of the experienced rate, with scheduled raises as they complete training. Within a few years, most reach or pass the figures in this table.
Do solar panel installers need a college degree?
No. Most solar panel installers train through paid apprenticeships or short certificate programs and earn while they learn — no four-year degree or student debt required. See our guide on how to become an apprentice.
Next Steps
Pay is only half the picture — training path, licensing, and demand matter just as much. Start here:
Full Solar Panel Installer Career Guide → Compare All 25 Trades → How to Become an Apprentice