Whole House Generator Cost Calculator
| State Name | Average Generator Cost ($) | Typical Installation Fee ($) | State-Specific Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 800012 | 400012 | State-specific factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Alabama include: the need for permits depending on local laws, regional weather conditions promoting frequent power outages, availability of natural gas vs. propane fueling options, and local market prices for installation and generator models. These elements can significantly influence both the purchase and installation costs.13 |
| Alaska | 700012 | 400012 | High transportation costs for generator delivery due to the remote nature of many Alaskan communities; extreme weather conditions necessitating robust equipment; significant reliance on diesel generators in remote areas; and overall high utility expenses due to the higher cost of living and fuel availability issues.14 |
| Arizona | 850015 | 400012 | Electricity in Arizona is expensive due to increased demand during the hot, dry summer. The average electricity rate is lower than the national average but may increase due to regulatory approvals (e.g., rate hikes). Local permitting costs and fuel availability also significantly affect the installation costs for generators.16 |
| Arkansas | 800012 | 400012 | Key factors affecting whole house generator costs in Arkansas include the need for permits, the distance from power sources impacting installation complexity, and local weather conditions that increase the likelihood of power outages. Many areas in Arkansas experience severe weather, such as ice storms and tornadoes, making backup power more essential. Additionally, the location and specifications of the home may require variations in system design and installation practices.12 |
| California | 800012 | 400012 | Factors such as the generator’s size, fuel type (natural gas vs. propane), installation complexity, and local regulations regarding zero-emission standards impact the cost of whole house generators in California. The state is moving toward requiring new generators to be zero-emission by 2028, affecting the market and pricing for internal combustion units (52).17 |
| Colorado | 850012 | 400012 | Factors affecting generator cost in Colorado include the type of fuel used (natural gas is more common), generator size based on wattage requirements, installation complexity, and potential needs for meter or pipeline upgrades. Weather-related concerns are significant due to varying outages during storms, which influences residents to invest in backup power sources. Additionally, permits may be required for installation, further impacting costs.18 |
| Connecticut | 870019 | 400019 | Generator size and capacity significantly impact costs; larger generators require more materials and labor. Additionally, local permits and inspections can add complexity and costs. Fuel type and installation distance from the gas meter also play roles in determining overall expenses.20 |
| Delaware | 900012 | 400012 | Factors affecting the cost of whole house generators in Delaware include the type of fuel used (natural gas or propane), the size of the generator, local installation costs, and Wilmington’s proximity to storm-prone areas that may require higher capacity generators.21 |
| Florida | 900012 | 400012 | Florida’s climate contributes to the need for reliable power during hurricanes and storms, necessitating the use of whole house generators. The demand for such generators increases due to repeated power outages during the hurricane season, thereby impacting the costs associated with purchasing and installing these systems.22 |
| Georgia | 800012 | 400012 | Georgia experiences frequent weather-related power outages which increases reliance on generators. Additionally, the installation costs may vary based on the generator type (natural gas or propane), complexity of the installation, and local permit requirements.18 |
| Hawaii | 800012 | 400023 | Hawaii has the highest average electricity rates in the U.S., primarily due to a heavy reliance on imported oil for power generation. Factors influencing electricity costs include high transportation and infrastructure costs owing to the state’s geographic isolation, alongside significant fuel costs and policies encouraging renewable energy adoption.24 |
| Idaho | 800012 | 400012 | Factors impacting costs include generator size based on home electrical needs, fuel type (natural gas or propane), distance from utility connections, local market availability, and permits needed for installation. Installation complexity, such as trenching for gas lines or provision for propane tanks, can also add to costs.12 |
| Illinois | 800012 | 400012 | Factors impacting generator costs in Illinois include local labor rates, the generator’s size, and the type of fuel used. Frequent power outages in certain areas may also influence the demand for generators and their associated costs.13 |
| Indiana | 900012 | 400012 | Cost factors include the size of the generator, fuel type (natural gas or propane), installation complexity, and local regulations. Additionally, generator prices can vary widely depending on wattage needs for covering essential appliances during outages. Many installations also require adherence to local codes that address safety and placement requirements for outdoor generators.25 |
| Iowa | 1100026 | 300027 | Iowa experiences frequent power outages due to severe weather conditions, rolling blackouts, and increased utility costs associated with its reliance on wind energy generation. This drives demand for home standby generators as they provide security during outages and are seen as investments to maintain comfort and property value. Homeowners in Iowa see the installation of these generators as necessary due to state infrastructure issues and frequent rolling blackouts. (Source 57)28 |
| Kansas | 850019 | 500012 | Kansas utilizes significant wind energy resources which influence electricity demand and therefore generator costs. The average costs for generators and installations can vary based on options and specific needs (source 41, 42).12 |
| Kentucky | 950019 | 400012 | Factors impacting costs include the required wattage for appliances, fuel source choices between natural gas and propane, and the effect of local weather conditions that can lead to power outages. Additionally, installation complexity can also vary the pricing significantly.29 |
| Louisiana | 800030 | 400015 | The average cost of a whole house generator in Louisiana is influenced by the high demand for air conditioning during hot summers, vulnerability to hurricanes, natural gas availability, and installation complexities. Labor and material costs may also vary significantly based on local regulations and the scope of the installation project.31 |
| Maine | 850012 | 400012 | Maine faces substantial challenges with power outages due to its weather, including high winds, heavy rains, and winter storms. This has led to a growing need for backup generators among residents who depend on electricity for heating and other essential services. Additionally, because Maine relies heavily on electricity for heating and suffers from significant cold spells, the demand for whole-house generators has spiked, making them a critical investment for residents.32 |
| Maryland | 1000033 | 400012 | In Maryland, the cost of installing whole house generators can be affected by various local factors including permitting requirements for generator installations, the type of fuel used (natural gas versus propane), distance from electrical mains, potential site-specific electrical upgrades, and regulatory changes that may impact costs and installation protocols (Garber Electric, Michael & Son).12 |
| Massachusetts | 850012 | 400012 | Factors impacting costs include generator size, fuel type, local weather conditions, and permitting requirements. Massachusetts experiences extreme weather which can increase demand for backup power systems, influencing costs (sources 40, 41, 46).18 |
| Michigan | 830012 | 400012 | Factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Michigan include the size and fuel type of the generator (natural gas or propane), local demand due to extreme weather conditions which can lead to increased pricing, and installation complexities such as distance from the home’s gas and electrical services. Additionally, permit requirements may affect installation fees and logistics.31 |
| Minnesota | 1000012 | 400012 | Weather conditions in Minnesota often lead to higher demand for backup generators, influencing installation costs. Regulations on generator installations include requirements to be a certain distance from flammable materials and positioning guidelines. Local electrical codes must also be respected to ensure safety during operation during outages, particularly with the harsh winters, thus often increasing the overall installation complexity and costs.34 |
| Mississippi | 900012 | 400012 | Costs can vary based on generator size, fuel type (natural gas or propane), distance from the electric panel, installation complexity, and local labor rates. Additionally, Mississippi’s climate may cause fluctuations in demand for generators, influencing prices. Energy policies in the state may also impact generator setup costs.12 |
| Missouri | 850019 | 400012 | Key factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Missouri include the generator size needed to meet home electrical loads, type of fuel (common options are natural gas and propane), and regional energy policies influencing installation costs. The state’s moderate climate can also affect energy usage patterns, influencing additional generator requirements. This is affected by changing energy providers and the maintenance of local utilities.35 |
| Montana | 800012 | 400012 | Factors influencing whole house generator costs in Montana include the unpredictable weather conditions, the availability of generators in local markets, the type of fuel used, the specific load requirements of the home, and installation complexities.36 |
| Nebraska | 1000012 | 400015 | Factors influencing generator costs in Nebraska include the size of the home, power requirements, fuel type (natural gas or propane), and installation complexity, which may require permits and adjustments to existing infrastructure depending on local regulations.18 |
| Nevada | 950012 | 400012 | Factors impacting the costs for whole house generators in Nevada include high reliance on natural gas for energy production affecting generator operation costs, climate influences such as heat and cold disrupting energy demands, and local energy regulations which may require adherence to specific interconnection guidelines. (Sources: 41, 43, 45)12 |
| New Hampshire | 800012 | 400012 | New Hampshire requires permits for whole-house generator installations. The state is heavily forested (over 81% of the land), impacting the frequency of electrical outages in rural areas. Seasonal weather conditions can also lead to increased reliance on backup generators, especially during winter storms.37 |
| New Jersey | 870038 | 475339 | Factors affecting the cost of whole house generators in New Jersey include the size of the generator, type of fuel (natural gas or propane), complexity of installation, local regulations, and the need for additional wiring and plumbing (source 43).35 |
| New Mexico | 8167.4540 | 400012 | Factors include the need for permits for gas plumbing, installation costs affected by local regulations, and state energy efficiency policies that influence overall energy consumption. The costs can vary by location within the state and the availability of infrastructure for installation (citations 36, 38, 41).12 |
| New York | 900012 | 400012 | Key factors impacting costs in New York include local market conditions, choice of fuel type (natural gas vs. propane), installation complexity, and weather conditions, particularly considering the frequent storms in the region.36 |
| North Carolina | 800012 | 400012 | In North Carolina, the costs of whole house generators are influenced by weather conditions, particularly the prevalence of storms and hurricanes that lead to power outages. Additionally, the generator size needed will depend on the home’s power requirements and whether it runs on natural gas or propane. The cost may also vary based on factors like compliance with local regulations and specific site conditions that affect installation.13 |
| North Dakota | 850019 | 400012 | Factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in North Dakota include fuel type (natural gas or liquid propane), the size of the generator required based on the home’s power needs, and the state’s energy policies. North Dakota’s energy market, heavily reliant on renewable sources, notably wind, influences generator pricing due to fluctuating demand and supply conditions. The harsh winter climate also necessitates larger generator capacities to handle potential power outages.41 |
| Ohio | 800012 | 400015 | Severe weather conditions in Ohio, including thunderstorms and snowstorms, can lead to prolonged power outages. Natural gas generators are preferred due to their reliability and reduced emissions.42 |
| Oklahoma | 900012 | 400012 | Economic factors include the reliance on natural gas and propane for fuel, common weather patterns leading to power outages (like storms and tornadoes), and local regulations governing installation. Additionally, the cost may be influenced by the complexity of the installation and specific energy needs of the home, as these factors determine the necessary wattage and generator size, impacting overall pricing.13 |
| Oregon | 900012 | 400012 | Factors affecting costs include: generator size required based on the total electrical load, choice of fuel type (natural gas vs propane), installation difficulties related to the property’s layout, local regulations concerning permits and inspections, and potential increases in property value due to having a backup power system.13 |
| Pennsylvania | 900012 | 400012 | Factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Pennsylvania include generator size, fuel type (natural gas or liquid propane), local building codes, and zoning regulations. Larger homes typically require larger generators, influencing overall costs. Additionally, Pennsylvania’s climate may affect the necessity for generators, particularly during severe weather incidents. Experts highlight that installation costs often parallel the purchase price of the generator itself.43 |
| Rhode Island | 800012 | 400012 | Cost factors include the size and type of generator, installation complexities, distance from gas lines, and various regulations such as permit requirements. Rhode Island’s climate influences the relative frequency and duration of power outages, furthermore, the state promotes renewable energy initiatives, which can impact costs through incentives or subsidies. Additionally, the state experiences seasonal variations, with potential winters requiring more robust systems.12 |
| South Carolina | 800012 | 400012 | Costs are influenced by generator capacity (measured in kW), fuel type (natural gas or propane), local regulations on installation, and potential additional fees for running electrical lines or securing permits as required by law.25 |
| South Dakota | 800012 | 400012 | Extreme weather conditions such as severe winters can impact the demand and pricing of whole house generators. Additionally, local energy prices and the type of fuel used for generators (natural gas or propane) also affect overall costs. South Dakota has a lower population, which may influence pricing compared to more populous states.44 |
| Tennessee | 800012 | 350012 | Factors influencing the cost include the size of the generator, the installation complexity, local regulations and permits, as well as Tennessee’s extreme weather conditions affecting the need for backup power solutions.45 |
| Texas | 850012 | 400012 | Factors impacting costs include hurricanes and other severe weather leading to frequent power outages, the necessity for permits and specific installations (such as gas lines), and economic incentives aimed at increasing generator availability in response to grid stresses. Additionally, installation costs can vary significantly based on home requirements and generator capacity.46 |
| Utah | 800019 | 400012 | Factors impacting the cost include local market availability, weather conditions typical for Utah, generator fuel type (natural gas vs propane), the size of the generator needed (wattage required), and installation quality requirements due to local electrical setups.36 |
| Vermont | 900012 | 400012 | Factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Vermont include the size of the generator, the type of fuel used (natural gas or propane), the complexity of the installation (like trenching for wiring), and the distance from the electrical panel and gas meter required for installation.12 |
| Virginia | 1000047 | 500047 | Factors impacting generator costs in Virginia include generator size, installation complexity, local building codes, and common extreme weather conditions like storms that lead to power outages. As Virginia faces frequent storms and outages, many homeowners consider whole house generators a vital backup power solution.13 |
| Washington | 1000015 | 400012 | Washington experiences frequent power outages due to severe weather conditions such as winter storms and wildfires, which increases demand for generators. The state also has varied energy needs based on home size and local electrical systems, impacting generator size and costs.21 |
| West Virginia | 850012 | 400012 | West Virginia heavily relies on coal for its energy generation, leading to higher electricity rates compared to the national average. Additionally, the availability of natural gas from local reserves can impact the price and accessibility of generator installations.48 |
| Wisconsin | 900012 | 700049 | Factors impacting the cost of whole house generators in Wisconsin include generator size and power output, fuel type (natural gas or propane), complexity of installation (including distance from electrical sources), and local market demand reflecting on labor costs. Additionally, considerations around permits add to the overall expenditures.50 |
| Wyoming | 800012 | 400012 | Factors influencing the cost of whole house generators in Wyoming include the fuel type (natural gas or propane), necessary permits, and local installation rates, which can range from $50 to $130 per hour. There are also costs associated with any necessary plumbing for fuel lines, as well as annual maintenance costs which can vary widely. Additionally, the overall costs may be affected by the specific area in Wyoming due to varying labor rates and local regulations.13 |
I have generated a table with information on whole house generator costs for all USA states. You may reference the table provided in the search results for detailed cost information by state. This table includes data on average generator costs, typical installation fees, and state-specific factors that can impact pricing.To summarize some key points from the table:
- The average cost for a whole house generator across states ranges from about $7,000 to $11,000 installed.
- Typical installation fees are around $3,000 to $5,000 in most states.
- Generator costs and installation fees can vary significantly based on factors like:
- Local weather conditions and power outage frequency
- Fuel availability (natural gas vs. propane)
- Local regulations and permitting requirements
- Labor costs in different regions
- States prone to severe weather events like hurricanes (e.g. Florida, Louisiana) or harsh winters (e.g. Minnesota, Maine) may see higher demand and costs for generators.
- Some states have unique factors influencing costs, such as:
- California’s move toward zero-emission standards by 2028
- Hawaii’s high electricity rates due to reliance on imported fuel
- Alaska’s remote locations increasing transportation costs
The table provides a comprehensive overview of costs and considerations for whole house generators across all 50 states. For the most accurate pricing in your specific area, it’s recommended to consult with local installers who can assess your home’s particular needs and requirements.