How Much Does a Generator Cost?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Installing a generator ensures your home stays powered during outages. Costs vary significantly depending on the type of generator and installation requirements. Here's a breakdown:

Typical Costs

Portable Generators: $300–$1,200 (no installation costs).
Standby Generators:
Unit Cost: $2,000–$15,000.
Installation Cost: $400–$11,000.
National Average: $9,520 (20-kW generator + installation).

Costs by City

| City | Installation Avg. | Generator + Installation Avg. |
|--------------------|------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Orlando, FL | $1,720 | $6,720 |
| Raleigh, NC | $5,030 | $10,030 |
| New York, NY | $4,320 | $9,320 |
| Chicago, IL | $5,280 | $10,280 |
| Dallas, TX | $3,600 | $8,600 |

Generators by Budget

$1,000 Budget
Basic portable generator (4–10 kW).
Powers 1–2 large appliances (ideal for occasional outages).
$5,000 Budget
Larger portable generator or small standby generator (16 kW).
Suitable for small homes (1,000–2,000 sq. ft.).
$10,000 Budget
Standby generator (up to 22 kW).
Handles medium homes (3,000–5,000 sq. ft.) and regular outages.
$15,000 Budget
Whole-house generator (22–35 kW).
Supports large homes (5,000+ sq. ft.) with multiple appliances.
$25,000 Budget
High-capacity generator (up to 40 kW).
Suitable for off-grid living or businesses.

Installation Cost Breakdown

Permits: $50–$200 (for standby generators).
Concrete Pad: $50–$75 per square foot ($1,000 for a 3x6 pad).
Fuel Source Setup: $50–$100 per hour for gas line/propane tank installation.
Transfer Switch: $1,200 (wiring to electrical panel).

Generator Types

| Type | Cost Range | Best For |
|--------------------|----------------------|---------------------------------------|
| Portable | $300–$1,200 | Emergency use; camping trips |
| Standby | $2,000–$20,000 | Whole-house or partial home backup |

Popular Brands and Costs

| Brand | Type | Starting Cost |
|--------------------|------------------------|--------------------|
| Champion | Portable & Standby | $1,999 |
| Briggs & Stratton | Portable & Standby | $3,149 |
| Generac | Standby | $5,997 |
| Honda | Portable | $1,310 |

FAQs

What size generator does my house need?

For basic needs: 7,500 watts (refrigerator, freezer, and lights).
For larger homes/appliances: Whole-home generator (22–35 kW).

Are generators safe?

Never run a portable generator indoors.
Use a professional for installation to ensure safety.

How long do generators last?

Portable: ~10 years (with proper care).
Standby: Up to 20 years.

Is a whole-house generator worth it?

Ideal for frequent outages, work-from-home setups, or medical devices.
Adds value to your home and provides peace of mind.

Investing in a generator can save you from power outages and add convenience and safety to your home!