How much more expensive is electricity in Hawaii?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in Hawaii costs about $168.75 more per month than in California—roughly 36.1% higher.

Why do electricity prices vary between states?

Electricity prices vary due to generation mix (coal, gas, nuclear, renewables), transmission costs, regulations, taxes, and demand. States with more hydropower or natural gas often have lower rates; those relying on imported power or with higher renewable mandates may have higher rates.

Electricity Cost: California vs Hawaii

Electricity costs about 36% more in Hawaii than in California. A typical monthly bill runs about $299 in California vs $468 in Hawaii.

Based on average residential rates from EIA data · 900 kWh of monthly use

California rate

33.25 ¢/kWh

Hawaii rate

52.00 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$299.25

Hawaii 900 kWh bill

$468.00

Is electricity cheaper in California or Hawaii?

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	33.25 ¢/kWh	$299.25
Hawaii	52.00 ¢/kWh	$468.00

What the difference adds up to

At a typical 900 kWh a month, a household in Hawaii pays about $168.75 more than one in California — about 36% higher, or roughly $2025 a year for the same electricity.

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electricity cheaper in California or Hawaii?: California has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $299.25 in California vs $468.00 in Hawaii—about 36.1% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in Hawaii?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in Hawaii costs about $168.75 more per month than in California—roughly 36.1% higher.
Why do electricity prices vary between states?: Electricity prices vary due to generation mix (coal, gas, nuclear, renewables), transmission costs, regulations, taxes, and demand. States with more hydropower or natural gas often have lower rates; those relying on imported power or with higher renewable mandates may have higher rates.