How much more expensive is electricity in California?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $133.02 more per month than in Illinois—roughly 72.2% 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 Illinois

Electricity costs about 72% more in California than in Illinois. A typical monthly bill runs about $317 in California vs $184 in Illinois.

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

California rate

35.25 ¢/kWh

Illinois rate

20.47 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$317.25

Illinois 900 kWh bill

$184.23

Is electricity cheaper in California or Illinois?

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	35.25 ¢/kWh	$317.25
Illinois	20.47 ¢/kWh	$184.23

What the difference adds up to

At a typical 900 kWh a month, a household in California pays about $133.02 more than one in Illinois — about 72% higher, or roughly $1596 a year for the same electricity.

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electricity cheaper in California or Illinois?: Illinois has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $184.23 in Illinois vs $317.25 in California—about 72.2% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $133.02 more per month than in Illinois—roughly 72.2% 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.