If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Florida, you’ve probably wondered if solar panels still add value in 2025 and 2026. The short answer is yes. Recent studies show that homes with solar generally sell for more than similar homes without it. The size of the value boost depends on several factors, like the age of the system, how it’s financed, and the local energy market.

In a 2025 SolarReviews report, homes with solar sold for an average of 6.9 percent more than those without. Solar.com found a similar trend, with homes getting a 6 percent premium on average. Even older data from Zillow showed a 4.1 percent value increase nationwide. These studies don’t focus on Florida alone, but they show a clear trend: buyers are willing to pay more for homes that reduce monthly energy bills.

How Solar Performs in Florida’s Market

Florida’s climate and energy usage make solar especially appealing. With long summers and high AC costs, solar offers savings that buyers notice right away. Research specific to the state backs this up. One Central Florida study found that homes with solar sold for about 4.1 percent more than comparable properties without it, according to Sunation. Florida also offers a property tax exemption for residential solar systems. That means the value the system adds to your home won’t increase your property taxes, which makes solar a more attractive investment. This exemption is detailed in EcoWatch’s Florida solar guide.

As of 2025, the average cost for a 5 kilowatt solar system in Florida was around $10,900 before incentives, according to EnergySage. That’s lower than in many other states and helps shorten the payback period.

What Buyers Want to Know in 2025 and 2026

Today’s buyers are smart and budget-conscious. When they see a home with solar panels, they usually ask:

• Is the system owned or leased?

• How old is it, and is it still under warranty?

• Are there records of past energy production and savings?

• What condition is the roof in under the panels?

Owned systems are almost always more valuable than leased ones, since buyers don’t have to take over a third-party contract. A newer, well-documented system with warranties and solid energy savings can definitely help a home sell faster and for more.

How Solar Panels Affect Home Insurance in Florida

If you’re adding solar panels to your home or buying a property that already has them, it’s a good idea to understand how they can affect your homeowner's insurance in Florida. Some insurance companies will cover rooftop solar systems, treating them as part of your home's structure. This means they’re generally included under your dwelling coverage.

However, solar panels do raise the replacement cost of your home, which often leads to a higher premium. The increase isn't usually huge, but it’s something to factor into your monthly budget. The exact amount depends on the size of the system and your insurer’s policies. Some companies may also ask you to raise your coverage limits to fully protect the panels. Florida’s hurricane risk is another big factor. Insurers may want proof that your solar system was properly permitted and installed to meet wind mitigation standards. If the system isn’t up to code, or if it was added without the right inspections, it could lead to problems getting coverage or filing a claim later. On the flip side, some well-installed systems can qualify for discounts if they help with roof protection.

If your panels are leased rather than owned, your insurer might not cover them at all. In that case, the leasing company usually handles the coverage, which means you won’t see much change in your policy. Either way, it’s smart to call your insurance provider and let them know about the system so you’re not caught off guard during a storm or repair.

Quick Tips for Sellers and Buyers

If you’re selling a home with solar:

• Keep documentation handy, including the warranty, installation info, and energy usage history.

• Be clear about whether the system is owned or leased.

• Highlight the savings in your listing, especially if you’ve had low power bills

If you’re buying a home with solar:

• Ask for utility bill history and warranty information.

• Confirm whether the system will transfer with the sale.

• Get a roof inspection if the panels are more than a few years old.

Solar Still Adds Value in 2025 and 2026

In Florida, solar panels continue to increase home value as we head into 2026, but it does come at a cost. Even a 4 percent boost can mean thousands of dollars back in your pocket. With sunshine year-round and high electricity demand, solar makes financial sense for many Florida homeowners.

Want to know how much solar could add to your home in Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, or South Florida?