Is Solar Worth It If I Plan to Move?

The Short Answer: It Depends on How Long You Stay

Solar is a long-term investment with a 7–9 year payback period. If you plan to move before payback, you may not recoup your full investment through electricity savings alone. However, solar adds home value — studies show an average increase of 4% ($15,000 on a $375,000 home) — which can offset the remaining investment when you sell.

How Solar Affects Home Value

Multiple studies confirm that solar adds measurable value to homes:

• Zillow study (2019): Homes with solar sell for 4.1% more on average than comparable non-solar homes.
• Lawrence Berkeley National Lab: Solar adds $4 per watt to home value — a 6 kW system adds ~$24,000.
• Faster sale times: Solar homes sell 20% faster than comparable non-solar homes in most markets.
• Market variation: Solar adds the most value in California, New York, and New Jersey — states with high electricity rates and strong solar awareness.

Owned vs. Leased Solar When Selling

Whether you own or lease your solar system dramatically affects the home sale process:

• Owned solar (cash or loan): Adds value to your home. The buyer gets a home with free or reduced electricity. Most buyers view this as a significant positive.
• Solar loan: If the loan is tied to you personally (not the property), you pay it off at closing. If it's a PACE loan (tied to the property), the buyer assumes it — which some buyers resist.
• Solar lease or PPA: The buyer must assume the lease or you must buy it out. Many buyers are reluctant to assume a 15–20 year lease. This can complicate or slow your sale.