Electricity Cost: California vs South Carolina

Electricity in California costs approximately 97% more than in South Carolina based on typical household electricity use. California averages 30.29¢/kWh and South Carolina averages 15.41¢/kWh, putting a typical 900 kWh monthly bill at $273 vs $139.

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

California rate
30.29 ¢/kWh
South Carolina rate
15.41 ¢/kWh
California 900 kWh bill
$272.61
South Carolina 900 kWh bill
$138.69

Comparison

StateElectricity rateEstimated monthly bill
California30.29 ¢/kWh$272.61
South Carolina15.41 ¢/kWh$138.69

Difference Summary

Electricity in California costs approximately 97% more than in South Carolina based on typical household electricity use.

Difference: +$133.92 (+96.6%) at 900 kWh/month

Monthly Bill Comparison

Estimated monthly bill at 900 kWhEstimated monthly bill at 900 kWh. California vs South Carolina. California: $272.61; South Carolina: $138.69California$272.61South Carolina$138.69
California vs South Carolina

Related Pages

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state has cheaper electricity: California or South Carolina?
South Carolina has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $138.69 in South Carolina vs $272.61 in California—about 96.6% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?
At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $133.92 more per month than in South Carolina—roughly 96.6% 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.

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