Table of Contents:
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The total installed cost of a whole home generator typically ranges from $7,000 to $15,000
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The biggest cost factors are the generator unit, labor fees, fuel source, and local permitting and inspection costs
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You may be able to save on generator costs through manufacturer discounts and rebates, seasonal pricing, or service bundling
Home generators can provide a reliable source of electricity during power outages, making them a valuable tool for any homeowner. The cost of having a generator installed that can power your entire home ranges from $7,000 to $15,000 on average. Such a wide range in cost is due to differences in the price of equipment and the labor needed to install it.
In this guide, we discuss the different types of whole-house generators you can buy and their price points, additional costs to factor in, and how to estimate your own costs. You’ll also learn a few ways you may be able to save money on your whole house generator.
What is a whole-house generator?
Sometimes called standby generators, whole-house generators are designed to power your entire home during a utility outage. These generators connect to your home electrical panel via a transfer switch and can be switched on automatically or manually when grid power fails. When installed properly, a whole home generator can provide a reliable source of uninterrupted power.
Average cost to install a whole-house generator
Most homeowners spend between $7,000 and $15,000 for a fully installed whole-house generator. Costs vary based on several key factors related to your energy usage, labor costs, local policies, and individual factors about your home.
Just as there is no one right answer to which size generator is right for your home, there is no one single average cost to install a whole house generator. There are many variables at play when it comes to estimating the price of your installation.
National average cost breakdown
There are several components to the cost of installing a whole home generator, each with its average price range. We provide a breakdown of those cost components in the table below.
| Cost component | Description | Average cost range |
|---|---|---|
| Generator unit price | The cost of a whole home generator itself correlates with its capacity, which typically ranges from 8-24 kW. | $2,000 to $7,500 |
| Installation labor | You’ll need to hire the help of certified installers and licensed electricians to ensure safe operation. | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Additional electrical equipment | The best way to connect your generator to your home electrical system is with a certified transfer switch. All connections should be code-compliant according to federal and local regulations. | $500 to $2,500 |
| Fuel connections | You may need to hire a professional utility worker to connect your generator to a fuel source like a natural gas line, diesel line, or propane tank. | $500 to $2,000 |
| Permits, fees, and inspections | Depending on local regulations, you may need to get one or more permits for your system and pay for an official inspection. | $100 to $500 |
Price ranges are based on 2024 to 2025 manufacturer and distributor pricing.
Factors that affect whole-house generator installation cost
There is also a wide range in the potential cost of just the installation service for your generator. Installation costs vary due to factors that include:
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Location and accessibility: The more complex it is to install your generator and other equipment, the higher your labor bill is likely to be. If your equipment is located in a difficult-to-reach place, you’ll have to pay more for installation.
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Fuel source: Natural gas, propane, and diesel have different procedures and different costs to connect them.
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Permitting and code compliance: Permit requirements vary from one location to another, as do the costs of those permits. Your area may also require you to pay for an inspection to certify the installation.
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Local labor rates: The average hourly wage for installers and electricians varies depending on the area where you live.
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Optional extras: Upgrades like remote monitoring, premium sound enclosures, or advanced automatic transfer switches add to the total cost of installation.
Price comparison for leading home generator brands
In the table below, we compare the average cost ranges to install several popular brands of whole-home generators. Cost ranges listed are all-inclusive.
| Brand/model | Typical installed cost | Notes (warranty, value) |
|---|---|---|
| Generac Guardian 22kW | $10,000 to $14,000 | 5-year warranty, reliable, popular in home generator cost comparisons |
| Kohler 20RESCL-200SELS 20kW | $11,000 to $15,000 | Premium generator option, robust warranty, quiet operation |
| Cummins QuietConnect 20kW | $12,000 to $16,000 | Strong service network, durable, excellent remote monitoring |
| Briggs & Stratton 20kW | $9,000 to $13,000 | Affordable generators, good value, lower lifetime generator cost |
| Champion 14kW | $7,000 to $10,000 | Entry-level standby generator pricing, shorter warranty period |
| Honeywell 22kW | $10,000 to $14,000 | Backed by trusted brand, robust warranty support |
| Winco PSS20 20kW | $10,000 to $13,000 | Commercial-grade, good for large homes, durable |
| Generac PowerPact 7.5kW | $7,000 to $9,500 | Suits small homes, cost-effective, reliable |
| Briggs & Stratton 12kW | $8,000 to $11,000 | Moderate capacity, good cost-benefit |
| Kohler 14kW | $8,500 to $12,000 | Premium build, strong service plan options |
The generator unit you choose is the single biggest cost component and also the most important. Take the time to carefully consider your needs and the advantages and disadvantages of the different makes and models that fit those needs before making your investment.
Additional generator costs to consider
There are more costs to factor into your planning than just the initial installed cost of your whole house generator. Operating and maintaining your generator comes with some ongoing costs to budget for, including:
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Ongoing maintenance and service contracts: You should plan to spend between $300 and $600 per year for generator maintenance, annual inspection, and routine upkeep services.
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Fuel costs: Different fuel sources vary in cost. In general, natural gas and propane are cheaper than diesel per kWh.
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Emergency repairs: There is always a chance that your generator or other equipment may need unplanned repairs you need to pay for.
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Equipment upgrades: You can add features like generator monitoring to your setup later on to improve performance.
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Extended warranties: Some companies offer warranty plans that cover your equipment in case it fails or needs repairs. These plans tend to range from $500 to $1,500 on average.
How to get an accurate cost estimate for your home
You can get a rough idea of the cost of installing a whole house generator at your home if you identify the generator you need and local installation labor rates. However, the only way to get a precise and accurate estimate of the cost is to get a quote from a professional.
To give you an estimate, a generator installer will conduct an in-home evaluation where they will examine factors that include:
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Size of your home
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Layout of your electrical panel and main circuits
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Average energy usage
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Appliance loads
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Generator unit options
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Permit, utility interconnection fee, and code compliance
The cost of getting an estimate for a whole home generator installation varies. Some contractors provide free quotes, while others may charge an evaluation fee. In many cases, this evaluation fee gets credited towards the final price if you use their service.
Ways to save on whole-house generator installation
While a generator that powers your entire home is a major expense, you can save by looking for promotions, rebates, off-season discounts, and limited tax credits.
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Manufacturer promotions or rebates: Many trusted brands offer limited-time rebates for certain generator models or installation incentives.
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Generator financing: You can often find flexible payment plans to make your investment more manageable on a limited budget.
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Off-season discounts: Prices may drop in late summer or early fall when business tends to slow down for generator contractors.
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Tax credits: In some limited cases, such as if you use a generator to power vital medical equipment or a home office, your equipment may qualify for federal tax credits. Your state or local government may also offer incentives.
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Bundled maintenance plans: Some companies offer a discount when you purchase your generator and service package together.
Bottom line on whole home generator costs
With average costs ranging from $6,000 to $15,000, a whole home generator is a substantial investment. However, it’s an investment that provides substantial value for that cost, too. Having a reliable source of backup power can provide comfort and security during emergencies that’s difficult to put a price tag on.
FAQs on whole-house generator costs
Below are a few frequently asked questions about sizing a generator for home backup power.
How much does it cost to have a whole house generator installed?
The average cost to have a whole house generator installed ranges from $6,000 to $15,000. Costs vary based on generator capacity, labor rates, and other factors.
How much is a generator for a 2,000 sq ft house?
A generator that can power a 2,000 square foot house typically needs to have a capacity of at least 20 to 24 kW. The average cost of having a generator with this capacity installed ranges from $7,000 to $15,000.
Can a whole-house generator be a tax write-off?
Generators that can power your entire home can be a tax write-off in some situations. One example is if that generator is used to supply backup power to necessary medical equipment.
Is a whole-house generator worth the money?
A whole house generator can be worth the money you spend in many cases. If that generator serves as an emergency backup for vital medical equipment or if you live in an area that experiences frequent power disruptions, a generator provides tremendous value. The peace of mind a whole house generator provides may also be worth the investment on its own for many people.