How much more expensive is electricity in California?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $192.15 more per month than in Montana—roughly 153.6% 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 Montana

Electricity costs about 154% more in California than in Montana. A typical monthly bill runs about $317 in California vs $125 in Montana.

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

California rate

35.25 ¢/kWh

Montana rate

13.90 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$317.25

Montana 900 kWh bill

$125.10

Is electricity cheaper in California or Montana?

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	35.25 ¢/kWh	$317.25
Montana	13.90 ¢/kWh	$125.10

What the difference adds up to

At a typical 900 kWh a month, a household in California pays about $192.15 more than one in Montana — about 154% higher, or roughly $2306 a year for the same electricity.

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Montana

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electricity cheaper in California or Montana?: Montana has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $125.10 in Montana vs $317.25 in California—about 153.6% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $192.15 more per month than in Montana—roughly 153.6% 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.