One of the most common questions we receive from Boca Raton homeowners is: how much does a whole house generator cost? The honest answer is that it depends on several factors — generator size, fuel type, transfer switch, site conditions, and permitting. This guide breaks down every cost component so you know what to expect.
Total Cost Range for Whole House Generator Installation in Boca Raton
For most Boca Raton homes, a complete whole house standby generator installation costs between $8,000 and $18,000, including all equipment and labor. Here is a breakdown by home size:
| Home Size | Generator Size | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Under 2,000 sq ft | 14–20 kW | $6,000–$9,500 |
| 2,000–3,000 sq ft | 20–26 kW | $8,500–$13,000 |
| 3,000–4,500 sq ft | 26–36 kW | $12,000–$16,500 |
| 4,500+ sq ft | 36–48 kW | $15,000–$22,000+ |
These ranges reflect typical installed costs in Palm Beach County in 2025, including the generator unit, automatic transfer switch, concrete pad, gas line connection, electrical work, and permits.
Cost Breakdown: What You Are Paying For
Generator Unit
The generator itself is typically the largest single cost component. A 20 kW Generac unit has a list price of approximately $3,500–$4,500. A 26 kW unit runs $4,500–$5,500. Kohler units are priced similarly. Larger commercial-grade units cost significantly more.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The automatic transfer switch detects a power outage and automatically switches your home to generator power. A residential ATS typically costs $600–$1,200 for the unit itself, plus labor for installation and connection to your electrical panel.
Concrete Pad
All standby generators must be installed on a concrete pad. Most residential installations use a pre-cast concrete pad (approximately $200–$400) or a poured-in-place pad ($400–$800 depending on size and site conditions).
Gas Line Extension
If your home has natural gas service, the installer will run a new gas line from your meter to the generator location. The cost depends on the distance and any obstacles. Typical gas line extensions in Boca Raton cost $300–$800. If you are using propane, a new tank installation costs $800–$2,000 depending on tank size.
Electrical Work
Labor for the electrical connection between the generator, transfer switch, and your main panel typically runs $800–$1,500 for a standard residential installation.
Palm Beach County Permits
Palm Beach County requires an electrical permit for all standby generator installations. Permit fees typically run $200–$400 depending on the scope of work. Your installer should include permit coordination in their quote.
Factors That Can Increase the Cost
Panel upgrade: If your electrical panel is older or at capacity, it may need to be upgraded to accommodate the transfer switch. A panel upgrade can add $1,500–$3,500 to the project cost.
Long gas line run: If the generator must be located far from the gas meter, the gas line extension cost increases proportionally.
Difficult site conditions: Rocky soil, underground utilities, or limited access can increase labor costs.
Whole-home surge protection: Many homeowners add whole-home surge protection during generator installation. This adds $300–$600 but protects sensitive electronics from voltage spikes when the generator starts and stops.
Is a Whole House Generator Worth the Cost in Boca Raton?
For most Boca Raton homeowners, the answer is yes. Extended power outages in South Florida are not hypothetical — they happen regularly during hurricane season. A week without power means spoiled food, no air conditioning in extreme heat, potential damage to temperature-sensitive medications, and significant disruption to daily life.
A standby generator eliminates all of that. It also adds measurable value to your home — studies have shown that homes with standby generators sell faster and for more money in South Florida markets.
Get a Free, Accurate Estimate for Your Home
The only way to get an accurate cost for your specific home is to have a licensed installer perform a load calculation and site assessment. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all Boca Raton and Palm Beach County homeowners.