Energy Calculators

Electricity rates in California

The average residential electricity price in California was 29.75¢/kWh in August 2026, 63.8% above the U.S. average of 18.16¢/kWh (EIA).

Average price (Aug 2026)
29.75¢/kWh
Change vs Aug 2025
−3.8%−1.17¢/kWh
Rank (1 = most expensive)
4thof 51
vs U.S. average
+63.8%+11.59¢/kWh

California residential electricity price, last 12 months

California vs U.S. average residential electricity price, last 12 monthsCalifornia: 31.9¢ in Sep 2025, 29.8¢ in Aug 2026. Low 29.8¢, high 35.3¢.15.0¢20.0¢25.0¢30.0¢35.0¢40.0¢Nov 2025Feb 2026May 2026Aug 2026
· cents per kWh
Show data table
MonthCaliforniaU.S. average
Aug 202629.8¢18.2¢
Jul 202633.6¢18.3¢
Jun 202634.7¢18.4¢
May 202633.3¢18.4¢
Apr 202635.3¢18.9¢
Mar 202633.3¢18.6¢
Feb 202633.2¢17.6¢
Jan 202630.3¢17.4¢
Dec 202529.9¢17.1¢
Nov 202532.0¢17.8¢
Oct 202533.6¢17.9¢
Sep 202531.9¢18.1¢

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (Aug 2026). Retrieved November 5, 2026. About our data

What common appliances cost to run in California

Worked examples at 29.75¢/kWh, the August 2026 average:

  • Running a 1,500 W space heater 6 hours a day for 30 days uses 270 kWh and costs about $80.33.
  • Running a 3,500 W central air conditioner 8 hours a day for 30 days uses 840 kWh and costs about $249.90.
  • Running a refrigerator using 500 kWh per year uses 500 kWh and costs about $148.75 a year.

Try your own appliance in the appliance cost calculator.

Typical monthly use and bill

California residential customers used an average of 494 kWh a month in 2025 (EIA annual data). At 29.75¢/kWh, that works out to about $146.97 a month.

States with similar prices

Compare all 50 states and DC

Frequently asked questions

Is electricity expensive in California?

California ranked 4th most expensive of 51 (50 states and DC) in August 2026, at 29.75¢/kWh versus the U.S. average of 18.16¢/kWh.

How have California electricity prices changed over the past year?

The average residential price fell from 30.92¢/kWh in August 2025 to 29.75¢/kWh in August 2026, a change of −3.8%.

What is a typical electric bill in California?

Residential customers in California used an average of 494 kWh a month in 2025. At 29.75¢/kWh that is about $146.97 a month. Use the electric bill calculator for your own usage.

Why might my California rate differ from this average?

The state average blends every utility, rate plan and fixed charge in the state. Utilities, co-ops and municipal providers set different tariffs, and time-of-use or tiered plans change the price of each kWh. Divide your bill total by your kWh for your own average rate.

Data last updated: