Best US Cities for Balcony Solar

Top locations ranked by solar potential, ROI, and state incentives

⏱️ Read time: 7 Min
📊 Updated: 2025
✓ Verified: PVGIS Data

Top 10 Cities for Solar ROI

Rankings based on solar irradiance, electricity rates, and state incentives:

#1 Best ROI

Phoenix, Arizona

9.2/10

Annual Production

~700 kWh

Payback Period

~6 years

State Incentives

Excellent

#2

Las Vegas, Nevada

9.0/10

Annual Production

~680 kWh

Payback Period

~6.5 years

State Incentives

Good

#3

Los Angeles, California

8.8/10

Annual Production

~650 kWh

Payback Period

~7 years

State Incentives

Excellent

Other Top Cities

#4 San Diego, CA 8.5/10
#5 Miami, FL 8.3/10
#6 Denver, CO 8.2/10
#7 Austin, TX 8.0/10
#8 Albuquerque, NM 7.9/10
#9 Sacramento, CA 7.8/10
#10 Orlando, FL 7.7/10

Factors That Determine Solar Potential

Solar Irradiance

Amount of sunlight your location receives. Southwest US gets the most sun.

Electricity Rates

Higher rates = better ROI. California and Northeast have highest rates.

State Incentives

Tax credits, rebates, and net metering policies vary by state.

Weather Patterns

Fewer cloudy days = more production. Desert climates are ideal.

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Pro Tip

Even if your city isn't in the top 10, balcony solar can still be profitable! Calculate your specific ROI with our free calculator using PVGIS data for your exact location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is solar worth it in northern states?

A: Yes! While production is lower, higher electricity rates in many northern states (like New York, Massachusetts) can make solar very profitable. Payback periods are typically 8-12 years instead of 6-8 years, but still worthwhile.

Q: What if my city isn't on the list?

A: Our calculator includes 1,300+ US cities with PVGIS data. Even cities not in the top rankings can achieve good ROI. Use our calculator to see your specific potential based on your location's solar irradiance and local electricity rates.

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