Electricity Cost: California vs Pennsylvania

Electricity in California costs approximately 50% more than in Pennsylvania based on typical household electricity use. California averages 30.29¢/kWh and Pennsylvania averages 20.19¢/kWh, putting a typical 900 kWh monthly bill at $273 vs $182.

Based on average residential rates from EIA data · 900 kWh standard usage benchmark

California rate
30.29 ¢/kWh
Pennsylvania rate
20.19 ¢/kWh
California 900 kWh bill
$272.61
Pennsylvania 900 kWh bill
$181.71

Comparison

StateElectricity rateEstimated monthly bill
California30.29 ¢/kWh$272.61
Pennsylvania20.19 ¢/kWh$181.71

Difference Summary

Electricity in California costs approximately 50% more than in Pennsylvania based on typical household electricity use.

Difference: +$90.90 (+50.0%) at 900 kWh/month

Monthly Bill Comparison

Estimated monthly bill at 900 kWhEstimated monthly bill at 900 kWh. California vs Pennsylvania. California: $272.61; Pennsylvania: $181.71California$272.61Pennsylvania$181.71
California vs Pennsylvania

Related Pages

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state has cheaper electricity: California or Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $181.71 in Pennsylvania vs $272.61 in California—about 50.0% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?
At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $90.90 more per month than in Pennsylvania—roughly 50.0% 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.

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