How much more expensive is electricity in California?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $202.95 more per month than in Idaho—roughly 177.6% 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 Idaho

Electricity costs about 178% more in California than in Idaho. A typical monthly bill runs about $317 in California vs $114 in Idaho.

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

California rate

35.25 ¢/kWh

Idaho rate

12.70 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$317.25

Idaho 900 kWh bill

$114.30

Is electricity cheaper in California or Idaho?

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	35.25 ¢/kWh	$317.25
Idaho	12.70 ¢/kWh	$114.30

What the difference adds up to

At a typical 900 kWh a month, a household in California pays about $202.95 more than one in Idaho — about 178% higher, or roughly $2435 a year for the same electricity.

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Idaho

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electricity cheaper in California or Idaho?: Idaho has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $114.30 in Idaho vs $317.25 in California—about 177.6% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $202.95 more per month than in Idaho—roughly 177.6% 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.