Electricity Cost Calculator for California
Electricity cost depends on monthly usage and your state's rate. Below are estimates for Californiabased on the average residential rate. All figures use the formula: rate × usage.
Average rate
31.14 ¢/kWh
Low (500 kWh/mo)
$155.70
Typical (900 kWh/mo)
$280.26
High (1500 kWh/mo)
$467.10
Usage Scenarios
| Monthly usage (kWh) | Est. monthly cost | Est. annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| 500 | $155.70 | $1868.40 |
| 900 | $280.26 | $3363.12 |
| 1,500 | $467.10 | $5605.20 |
Compared to National Average (900 kWh)
Typical cost in California
$280.26/mo
Typical cost nationally
$158.13/mo
Difference
+$122.13 (+77.2%)
Monthly Cost by Usage
More Data & Comparisons
- Electricity cost in California — Rates, value score, affordability
- Interested in backup power? See battery recharge cost in California.
- Average electricity bill in California — Monthly and annual bill estimates
- Electricity cost when moving to California — Relocation estimates
- Full California knowledge page — Rates, value score, affordability, trends
- All states calculator
- See fixed electricity cost examples: 500 kWh · 1000 kWh · 2000 kWh
Related electricity pages
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does 500 kWh cost in California?
- At the average rate of 31.14¢/kWh, 500 kWh costs approximately $155.70 per month, or about $1868.40 per year.
- How much does 900 kWh cost in California?
- At the average rate of 31.14¢/kWh, 900 kWh costs approximately $280.26 per month, or about $3363.12 per year.
- Is electricity in California more expensive than the national average?
- At 900 kWh per month, electricity in California is approximately 77.2% more expensive than the U.S. national average.
- What affects monthly electricity costs?
- Monthly costs depend on your usage (kWh) and your electricity rate (¢/kWh). Usage varies with home size, appliances, heating/cooling, and season. Rates vary by state, utility, and plan type.