When you lose power, a quality generator can help keep you comfortable at home or on the job site, even in subzero temperatures. But what is the price of a generator in 2025? It all depends on the type, power capacity, brand, and installation needs.
In this expansive guide, we’re going to break down generator costs by type and how you plan to use them to help you continue making informed decisions.
What Is the Price of a Generator in 2025?
So, how much does a generator cost that you need to install in 2025 cost? In general, you can expect to spend about $400–$15,000 if you’re buying a portable, inverter, or standby generator. Here’s what current pricing trends look like:
| Generator Type | Price Range (USD) |
| Portable Generator | $400 – $2,000 |
| Inverter Generator | $500 – $3,500 |
| Standby Generator | $3,000 – $15,000+ |
These prices usually apply only to the generator unit. Other charges for extras, including but not limited to taxes, fees, and surcharges, are extra and apply.
Portable Generators: A More Affordable Solution
Portable generators are favoured for camping excursions, emergency home use, or job sites. They generally deliver between 1,000 and 7,500 watts of power, meaning you can power your lights, refrigerator, small appliances, and, inferentially, some crucial electronics.
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Easy to transport
- Professional Installation Not Required
Cons
- Manual operation
- Shorter runtime
- Can be noisy
In 2025, an average, run-of-the-mill portable generator with reasonable wattage and fuel economy might run somewhere between $800 and $1,200.
Inverter Generators: Quiet & Efficient
Inverter generators run quietly and are fuel-efficient. They generate cleaner power and are perfect for sensitive devices, such as laptops and medical devices. They aren’t that much more expensive than standard mobile units.
A dependable inverter generator in 2025 usually runs between $1,000 to $2,500. Initial cost may be a bit more, but the run time and sound of silence make it a good investment for a lot of us.
Standby Generators: Ensure Backup Power Protects Your Entire Home
If you want a permanent answer to power outages, standby generators are the way to go. These systems automatically switch on in the event of a power outage, so you get uninterrupted electricity to your home or business.
Key Features:
- Permanently installed and connected to your electrical system.
- Often powered by natural gas or propane.
- Capable of running for days.
The price of a standby generator in 2025 is for the unit, including installation, which costs $5,000 to $15,000 on average. For professional installation alone, expect to add another $2,000 to $4,000 to the total price, depending on your location and home plan.
Additional Costs to Consider
When figuring out the cost of a generator, don’t just focus on the purchase price; it’s important to consider costs beyond the sticker price:
- Fuel: Generators that run on gasoline, propane, natural gas, and diesel are available.
- Maintenance: Annual upkeep can range from $100 to $300.
- Transfer Switch: Necessary to link the generator to your electrical panel; it costs $300 to $800.
- Permits & Installation: Many cities require permits when installing standby generators, which can increase the final price.
Select Your Ideal Generator
Here are the things you should think about when deciding which generator to buy:
- Power Needs: Determine the combined watts that the appliances and systems you want to operate continuously use.
- Fuel Availability: Select the fuel type that is easily accessible and affordable within your region.
- How Loud? Inverter generators are ideal for low noise.
- Run Time & Application: If you are using it on an as-needed basis, a portable generator can be enough. For continued power backup, a standby is the best.
- Budget: Don’t consider only the price of the car; also, keep in mind the
long-term cost of fuel and upkeep.
What’s the perfect generator for you, budget-wise?
So, how much does a generator cost in five years? It will depend on how much power you need, your budget, and the type of generator you have. Portable ones are the cheapest and most versatile, perfect for temporary or small-scale use. For nearly silent operation and efficient power, look into inverter generators, and for whole-home coverage, standby generators have the highest cost.
Venturing into the right generator can guarantee safety and energy independence during urgent circumstances or when off the grid. Make sure you look at features, warranties, and reviews to ensure you are getting the best bang for your buck.
Whether you’re bracing for the next storm or searching for backup during outages, knowing how much generators cost can help you make a smart, future-facing purchase.
FAQ’s
Q1. What does a generator cost in 2025?
A: Generators cost between $400 and $15,000 in 2025, depending on the type and size. Portable models are the most affordable, and standby units are the costliest since they require installation and are larger.
Q2. What is the best generator for home use?
A: A portable generator is good for smaller emergencies. If you want the most seamless backup for your whole house, a standby generator is the best option, even though it costs more.
Q3. What makes inverter generators more expensive than portable generators?
A: Inverter generators are more expensive for several reasons: They operate more quietly, and they use less fuel and produce cleaner power that’s safe for electronics ($1,000–$2,500).
Q4. How much does it cost to install a standby generator?
A: A complete standby generator system, including installation, could set you back $5,000 to $15,000. Installation alone could cost $2,000 – $4,000, depending on where you live and your setup.
Q5. Do I need a generator transfer switch?
A: Yes, if you’re wiring your generator into your home’s circuit panel. A transfer switch brings the electricity from the generator when you power up the house and shuts off the generator, and restores utility power when you turn off the house, but it also adds a level of safety and optimizes automatic power switching that can range from $300–$800.
